Bringing diesel racing to West Michigan presents a unique opportunity to drive significant economic and community growth. With a successful event, local businesses can experience increased foot traffic, restaurants and hotels benefit from additional bookings, and new tourism dollars are injected into the region. Diesel racing events attract fans and families who are eager to explore local attractions, enjoy nearby dining, and engage with the community. By supporting this initiative, West Michigan can enhance its position as a destination for motorsports enthusiasts while fostering local pride and economic resilience.
Increased Tourism
A diesel racing event will attract visitors from all over, bringing new revenue to local businesses, hotels, and restaurants.
Economic Boost
The event will generate significant spending on fuel, food, lodging, and merchandise, benefiting local businesses.
Media Exposure
The event will generate positive media attention for West Michigan, raising awareness and attracting future visitors.
West Michigan Hospitality: A Time for Growth
A Tough Reality
West Michigan hospitality is facing tough times. Recent policies have created a perfect storm of increased labor burdens, plummeting revenue, and dwindling staff. However, there is hope on the horizon, and that hope is diesel racing.
The Potential for Growth
Diesel racing is coming to West Michigan, and it has the potential to be a game-changer for hospitality businesses in the region. As the popularity of these high-powered events grows over the next 5 years, we expect to see a steady increase in visitors and revenue for the local hospitality industry. This will be a boon for race drivers, sponsors, and local businesses alike.
A Gradual Boost in Revenue
As the popularity of the Diesel Racing events grows over the next 5 years, we expect to see a steady increase in visitors and revenue for the local hospitality industry. While it may take time to reach the full potential, this new revenue stream could help lessen the economic hardship faced by West Michigan's hospitality businesses during the recovery period. With the support of the ODSS, race track owners, and local businesses, we can make this vision a reality.
Diesel racing events bring in millions of dollars in revenue for local businesses and communities, including hotels, restaurants, gas stations, and shops. A major diesel racing event can attract tens of thousands of attendees who spend a significant amount of money on travel, lodging, food, and entertainment.
3000+
Fans
Diesel racing events attract a loyal and passionate fanbase, many of whom travel from far and wide to attend. These enthusiasts are eager to spend their money on everything from race tickets to merchandise, supporting local businesses in the process.
200+
Sponsorships
Diesel racing events offer numerous sponsorship opportunities for local businesses, creating a valuable platform for brand exposure and community engagement. These sponsorships inject substantial funds into the local economy, boosting business activity and creating new opportunities for economic growth.
100+
Jobs
Diesel racing events create jobs in various sectors, from hospitality and retail to event management and logistics. The creation of these jobs directly contributes to the local economy, generating income and supporting local families.
5+
Events
Bringing diesel racing to West Michigan can lead to the development of new events and racing facilities, further stimulating economic growth in the region. These events will not only attract visitors and boost local businesses but also create a unique identity for West Michigan as a destination for motorsports enthusiasts.
Attendee Spending
$300-$650
Attendees who stay overnight are likely to spend between $100 to $225 per night on hotels or motels. For those staying 2-3 nights (the typical duration of a diesel racing event), this results in $300 to $650 per attendee on lodging.
$90-$150
An attendee may spend around $30 to $50 per day on meals, snacks, and beverages, depending on their dining choices (e.g., fast food versus sit-down restaurants). Over 2-3 days, this would amount to $90 to $150 per attendee.
$50-$375
Beyond the race itself, attendees may spend money on local attractions, bars, and event-related merchandise. Estimated spending for entertainment and souvenirs could range from $50 to $375 per attendee over the course of the event.
$150-$400
Travel costs depend heavily on distance traveled. For those driving to the event, fuel and tolls could cost between $150 to $400 round-trip, while those flying in might spend significantly more.
$590-$1575
The overall range is $590 to $1575 per attendee. A conservative average estimate would be around $1100 per attendee for a 2-3 day event, which includes all categories of spending—lodging, food, entertainment, and travel.
Bring Diesel Racing to West Michigan!
We are currently petitioning the Martin/131 Raceway to host a diesel racing event in this area. We expect all local lodgings, restaurants, and other hotspots to benefit significantly from the influx of visitors this event would bring.