Ontario Motor Speedway

The Rise and Fall of the Ontario Motor Speedway: The "Indianapolis of the West"

A Grand Vision

In the annals of American motorsports, the Ontario Motor Speedway (OMS) stands as an emblem of ambition and architectural grandeur. Conceived by John Hugenholtz and Michael Parker, OMS opened in 1970, embodying the architects' dream of creating a racing complex unrivaled in scale and scope.

A Replica of the Indy 500

OMS was designed as a replica of the legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway, earning it the moniker "Indianapolis of the West." Its mammoth 2.5-mile banked oval lured elite open-wheel racers for the prestigious IndyCar series. Additionally, the speedway hosted NASCAR races, attracting the nation's top stock car drivers.

A Racing Colosseum

At the time of its construction, OMS was the most expensive and extravagant racing facility in the world. Its 2.5-mile oval was wider and faster than Indianapolis, while its road course enticed Formula 1 drivers and its drag strip attracted drag racing enthusiasts. As the "closest racetrack to Los Angeles," OMS became a key hub for motorsports in Southern California.

Financial Tribulations

Despite its racing pedigree and architectural allure, OMS faced insurmountable financial challenges. The escalating costs of maintaining a state-of-the-art facility combined with dwindling attendance led to a rapid financial decline. By 1980, the speedway was forced to close its doors, leaving behind a legacy of unfulfilled potential.

The Legacy of the Big O

In 1981, OMS was demolished to make way for commercial development. The demolition of the "Big O" marked a poignant end to an era of grand motorsports ambition and left a lasting void in the hearts of racing enthusiasts. However, the memory of this architectural marvel and the legends forged on its track continue to captivate fans to this day.