TALLADEGA, Ala. – The International Speedway Corp. has announced that Brian Crichton, Vice President, Marketing and Sales at Talladega Superspeedway, has been promoted to President of Talladega Superspeedway effective Sept. 3.
Crichton assumes his new role as Speedway Chairman Grant Lynch prepares for his previously announced November retirement with the completion of Transformation – The Talladega Superspeedway Infield Project Presented by Graybar.
As VP of Marketing and Sales at Talladega, Crichton oversees consumer marketing, public relations, ticketing, partnership marketing and sales. Crichton and his Talladega staff created the popular Friday Night “Big One on the Blvd.” fan event, and elevated the track’s traditional Saturday Night Infield Concert.
He has overseen the development of successful programs for military, first responders, teachers and educators, kids, scouts and college students. He has also been a major contributor in the planning efforts of Transformation. In his new role, Crichton will report to Joie Chitwood, COO, ISC and oversee promotion and operation of the 2.66-mile Talladega Superspeedway, which is celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year.
“Brian has earned this promotion following nearly 10 years of valued leadership at Talladega,” stated Chitwood. “His creative marketing efforts, community building and fan-first mentality have helped Talladega Superspeedway become the most fan-friendly track on NASCAR’s schedule.”
With nearly 20 years of motorsports industry experience, Crichton served in successful capacities at Daytona International Speedway, Chicagoland Speedway and Route 66 Raceway. As Vice President of Special Events and Entertainment at Daytona Int’l Speedway, he managed the 50th running of the Daytona 500 and grew marquee events including the Rolex 24 at Daytona, Bike Week and Biketoberfest.
“Brian is a strong promoter and Talladega’s future is very bright with him at the wheel,” said Lynch, who has been a staple at the track since 1993. “He has earned the trust and commitment of this team as they take ’Dega’s storied legacy to new heights driving increased economic impact for the local community and the great state of Alabama.”
Crichton and his wife Karen have two sons – Jackson and Cooper.