Port City Racecars is under new management.
The Super and Pro Late Model chassis builder has been sold to Canadian businessman and race team owner Terry Jones, most known to the racing industry as the co-owner of NASCAR Xfinity, ARCA Racing and ASA STARS team Rette Jones Racing.
Port City Race Cars will continue to operate as is from a production and support standpoint. Previous owner Gary Crooks will continue to play an active role in the day-to-day operations of the company.
In addition to Jones, the new company will feature leadership positions for NASCAR notables Greg Zipadelli and Noah Gragson in addition to longtime short track mainstay Jeff Fultz. Mark Rette, who co-owns the race team alongside Jones, will also be present in the chassis manufacturer.
“Port City Racecars and asphalt short track racing have been my life’s work, and I’m excited to continue playing a key role in the industry in this next chapter,” said Crooks in a press release. “Working alongside Terry, Mark, Greg, and Noah brings a new level of opportunity and expertise to the table.”
“I do not doubt that this team and I will take Port City Racecars to new heights, and I look forward to being part of that journey.”
For Jones, this is a continuation of the race team becoming a more prominent voice in short track racing.
“This acquisition marks a significant milestone for the Jones Group,” said Terry Jones. “For more than 40 years, Port City Racecars has been a cornerstone of short-track asphalt racing. My goal is not only to ensure its continued success for another four decades but also to drive its evolution within the industry.”
Gragson has a deep friendship with the Rette and Jones families, worked for Zipadelli at Stewart-Haas Racing last season, and simply loves this discipline.
“Everyone who knows me understands my passion for short track racing,” said Gragson in a press release. “Becoming a partner at Port City Racecars allows me to bring fresh ideas from a driver’s perspective while working behind the scenes to ensure we’re building and producing race-winning chassis for today’s short track racers and the next generation.”
Zipadelli has worked in racing at every level and will apply that experience to both the team and chassis supplier.
“We have an incredible opportunity to build on Port City Racecars’ strong foundation while pushing the boundaries of innovation,” said Zipadelli. “Our goal is to provide racers with the best equipment possible, backed by a team passionate about delivering excellence. I’m excited to be part of this journey and look forward to what’s ahead.”
Rette echoed that sentiment.
“This is an exciting time for Port City Racecars and everyone involved,” explained Rette. “With the experience and knowledge of this group, we’re committed to building on the legacy of excellence that Port City has established.
“Our focus is on innovation, performance, and providing racers with the best equipment possible. I’m looking forward to what we can accomplish together.”
