EchoPark Automotive’s Post

Today, we celebrate Bruton Smith, one of NASCAR’s most legendary figures and the founder of Sonic Automotive, EchoPark Automotive, Speedway Motorsports, and Speedway Children’s Charities.    Born on this day in 1927 on a small farm near Oakboro, NC, Smith quickly became a pioneer in the world of stock car racing.  At 22, Mr. Smith ran his own racing association, the National Stock Car Racing Association (NSCRA), and ten years later, he built Charlotte Motor Speedway, the first of eleven tracks he’d eventually own. In 1995, Mr. Smith took his first company, Speedway Motorsports, public on the New York Stock Exchange.  His love for cars expanded beyond the racetrack and into dealership showrooms nationwide. By 1997, Mr. Smith took his second company, Sonic Automotive, public, and within 24 months, it had become a Fortune 500 Company. In 2016, Mr. Smith was honored with an induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame.   Mr. Smith’s passion, compassion, and spirit transformed the NASCAR and car buying experience.  It has also positively impacted countless lives in the communities he fostered. His legacy lives on and reminds all our teammates of the profound impact one person can have.  We are grateful for Mr. Smith’s vision, leadership, and passion.