FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Irwindale Speedway & Event Center Mourns the Loss of Longtime Race Director
(February 12th, 2021) Irwindale, CA – Irwindale Speedway & Event Center is deeply saddened to announce that its longtime Race Director, Michael Atkinson, passed away suddenly early Thursday morning at the age of 63.
Tim Huddleston, IS&EC President, said, “It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of our friend, Michael Atkinson. Michael has been ingrained into every inch of this facility since its opening in 1999, and his impact on the Southern California racing community will be everlasting.”
Mike Atkinson’s background in racing stretches back to the 60’s and 70’s, as his father, Art Atkinson, operated two Southern California short tracks. During this period, “Michael A” as he was often referred to, spent time both as a driver and as an official. Those early experiences in motorsports, combined with his natural charm and incredible work ethic, helped him to lead Irwindale Speedway and Irwindale Dragstrip as a senior manager and race director for over 20 years.He is survived by his daughters, Jannie and Sarah, Son-in-law Mike and granddaughter Remi.
We at Irwindale Speedway & Event Center will miss him dearly.