Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55, affectionately given the nickname by NASCAR veteran Ken Schrader as the “Mini Eldora,” has been a Midwest dirt racing jewel since 1979. With its high-banked, third-mile clay oval, the Pevely Missouri track has hosted legendary events like the Ironman 55 and the World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series. For decades, the racetrack thrived under the ownership of Ken Schrader and his longtime business partner, Ray Marler.

Ken Schrader is also co-owner of Macon Speedway alongside Tony Stewart. Recently, the dirt racing world was stunned to learn that Schrader and Marler had decided to pass the torch, ensuring the racetrack would continue its legacy under fresh leadership. However, it wasn’t a decision made lightly.

“It’s Just Time”: The sale to Josh Carroll

Schrader revealed the news during a heartfelt conversation on the Herm and Schrader podcast with Kenny Wallace. After 30 years of stewarding the track, Schrader explained the reasoning behind the decision.“My partner, Ray Marler, who has so much desire and determination, and worked his butt off for 30 years. But he’s 86 years old now,” Schrader said. “Ray and Sue [Marler] have run the track… It’s just time. We had the opportunity with a young man, Josh Carroll… approached us about maybe doing something with us.”

“He’s a lot younger, he’s got a lot of enthusiasm, and he’s done a great job at Brownstown,” Schrader continued. Carroll, already a respected name in the dirt racing community, has earned accolades for his work at the Brownstown Bullring in Illinois. The Bullring is known for its marquee events like the MARS Series Brownstown 100 and the B-Mod Nationals. Carroll’s family also boasts a rich history in racing, having previously owned Godfrey Speedway near St. Louis. “When they open up next year, he’s going to be the owner… We felt we were leaving it in really good hands,” Schrader added.

Schrader, ever humble, acknowledged the emotional weight of the sale. “We’re like a miniature Eldora,” he said, referencing the legendary track now owned by Tony Stewart. “We’re excited because we’re leaving it in good hands, I know Earl [Bates] was thrilled and happy that Tony [Stewart] was getting it.” Since 2004, Stewart has owned Ohio’s Eldora Speedway, where he’s a multi-time Prelude to the Dream late-model winner. In 2021, he started the Superstar Racing Experience (SRX) Series and became its first champion.`

Carroll echoed Schrader’s sentiments in his own statement. “I’m beyond excited to take the reins as promoter of Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55. This track has an incredible history and a loyal fan base,” he said. Carroll emphasized his gratitude for Schrader and Marler, adding, “Their dedication and passion made this place the heartbeat of dirt racing in St. Louis. I’m humbled to build on their legacy.”

Preserving the Legacy of a Dirt Racing Icon

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For decades, Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55 has been a cornerstone of Midwest motorsports. Hosting the World of Outlaws Sprint Cars, the DIRTcar Summer Nationals, and numerous local and regional events, the track has been a proving ground for many great top-tier drivers and a haven for fans.

Wallace, reflecting on Schrader’s tenure during the podcast, said emotionally, “Without this racetrack, look at all those NASCAR nights you had there. You brought in Dale Jr., you brought in the greats. I-55 has done so much and brought so many people up. You’ve handed over a diamond.” Greats such as Bobby Labonte, Brad Keselowski, and Kyle Busch, just to name a few, have raced at this legendary track.

Carroll’s track record provides plenty of reason for optimism. At the Bullring, he transformed the racing surface into one of the best in the region and enhanced the fan experience with improved facilities and top-tier events. Now, with Schrader and Marler’s blessing, Carroll plans to bring similar upgrades to I-55, ensuring it remains a premier racing destination.

“The first thing I’m going to do is shape the racetrack and ensure we have excellent food,” Carroll said, “That’s just the start. I’m going to take this place to the next level.” While change often brings uncertainty, Carroll’s vision for Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55 promises continuity and growth. The 2025 season is already shaping up to be packed with thrilling events, and Carroll’s dual stewardship of I-55 and the Brownstown Bullring opens new opportunities for collaboration.

Reflecting on the transition, Kenny Wallace said, “For me, it’s a little emotional. The whole time I was in Charlotte racing NASCAR, I knew that your racetrack was like a religion.” Schrader, however, made sure to give every local racetrack its props and highlighted their importance to the surrounding community. “Everybody’s local track is the most important track there is.”

For Schrader and Marler, the sale marks the end of an era, but also the beginning of an exciting new chapter. “Hopefully [Josh] has fun, and maybe a few headaches along the way!” joked Schrader as he urged Wallace to move onto the next topic before the former started welling up himself.