South Georgia Motorsports Park has named Don O’Neal its new general manager, placing the U.S. Army veteran in charge of daily operations, racer and fan engagement, partner development, and long-term event planning. He joins the facility as it prepares for the 2026 return of the NHRA Southern Nationals and a broader transition into a multi-use venue.
O’Neal steps into the role with a background that spans military service, business development, and race operations. SGMP leaders say that combination positions him to balance traditional drag racing programs with new event formats designed to extend the facility’s reach.
The track’s ownership has increasingly pointed to regional economic growth as part of its mission. SGMP wants to operate as a year-round hub for tourism, education, and community partnerships that serve both South Georgia and North Florida.
“SGMP is a special place for racers and fans,” O’Neal said. “Our goal is simple: run efficient shows, improve the racer and fan experience, and build strong community and sponsor partnerships.”
The facility has targeted infrastructure improvements and more consistent programming as its next phase of development. That approach is built around predictable scheduling, enhanced traffic flow, and a renewed emphasis on safety throughout operations.
“Don combines practical race operations with sponsor and community insight,” SGMP owner Raul Torres said. “We’re investing in facility upgrades and a sustainable schedule, and Don will lead that plan with accountability. This is about boosting tourism, educational opportunities, and economic growth for South Georgia and North Florida.”
SGMP officials say the track is preparing to deliver on-time programs supported by improved ingress and egress plans. Enhancements to communication, signage, wayfinding, and racer hospitality are also underway as the facility seeks measurable gains in customer experience.
The expansion of SGMP’s calendar is expected to include concerts, festivals, and car-culture gatherings. Those events will supplement traditional race weekends without displacing drag racing as the venue’s primary focus.
Track leaders are also mapping economic metrics to document the facility’s regional influence. Plans include collaboration with area hotels and tourism offices, internship pipelines with nearby schools, and a system to track local vendor spending.
SGMP intends to provide quarterly impact summaries to community partners as part of its new accountability model. Those updates are expected to detail tourism increases, workforce development outcomes, and measurable sponsor return on investment.
O’Neal said the facility’s direction reflects both racer expectations and broader community needs. “This track matters to a lot of people, and we want to honor that by delivering consistent value every weekend,” he said.
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THE TEN – 2025 YEAR-END EDITION