Everything you Need to know about Ohio’s FAST Series

With big news drop after big news drop in the sprint car world, it’s hard to keep up with everything going on. One major announcement that was made was that the High Limit Racing group will be contracting Ohio Sprint Speedweek out to the FAST Series for the 2024 season. The news came with mixed emotions, as some saw it as a good thing and others saw it as detrimental that a national touring series would not be officially sanctioning it. Regardless of how you feel, let’s take a look at what the FAST Series is and what they offer sprint car teams and drivers in the Ohio region.

FAST can be found on Facebook as “FAST on Dirt” and have spent the last five seasons operating under Aaron Fry. They primarily hold races in Ohio, but also venture to Western Pennsylvania and other neighboring states. In 2023, the series held 18 races, saw 145 different drivers compete and paid out over $269,000 to the teams. They had an average car count of 26.8 and saw 14 different drivers visit victory lane. Not bad for a regional series!

Brandon Spithaler, a western PA standout, won three races in 2023 and was crowned the series champion. Jordan Ryan, Ricky Peterson and Jeremy Weaver joined Spithaler in competing in all 18 races. Ohio locals Tyler Street, Henry Malcuit, Cody Bova, Kory Crabtree, Jordan Ryan, Travis Philo and Cole Duncan were also winners with the series in 2023.

In news not related to Ohio Speedweek, FAST announced that they are increasing their purse by nearly 33% for the 2024 season. A standard A-Main will pay $4,000 to win and $400 to start. Full time competitors will see a guarantee of $500 to start at each show. Last year, the series held a $10,000 to win Pete Jacobs Memorial race at Wayne County that was won by Cap Henry. Their full schedule for 2024 has not been released, but they did announce that many events will see increased purses.

Although some were disappointed that High Limit would not be sanctioning Ohio Sprint Speedweek, the historic event appears to be in great hands. I am sure that High Limit will do what they can to provide some resources and sponsors to help out with a points fund and purse.

FAST announced that they are already in contact with Ohio tracks and that Speedweek will take place during the traditional dates of June 8-15. They have stated that every track that has previously held a Speedweek race will have the opportunity to do so in 2024. A full Speedweek schedule is expected before PRI in December.

In a sprint car world where the little guy is constantly being pushed down, a regional series like FAST is just what the sport needs. I look forward to their season in 2024 and to see what they come up with for Ohio Speedweek.