Orangeburg Dragstrip History

1961

The Beginning

Orangeburg Dragstrip was founded in 1961 by T. J. Ashe, Ezel Hutto, and Nick Davis. In its earliest days, the track reflected the grassroots spirit of drag racing:

• No timing equipment

• No guardrail

• A quarter-mile racing surface with a quarter-mile shutdown area

From the start, it was a racer-focused facility with real rewards for competitors — trophies were awarded to all class winners, and cash prizes were paid to eliminator winners.

1968

A New Surface

Before the 1968 season, the track and return road were repaved, marking an important upgrade that improved consistency and helped the facility keep pace with the growing sport.

1972

The DeWitt Brothers Era

In 1972, the dragstrip was purchased by the DeWitt brothers (Zane, Tommy, and Jimmy). Their ownership introduced major improvements and helped define the culture of the track for years to come. During this era:

• Timing equipment was installed

• Grudge racing was promoted and became a central part of the racing experience

This chapter helped strengthen the facility’s identity as a high-energy, community-centered racing destination.

1976

A Tragic Event

On October 24, 1976, a tragic accident occurred when a racer lost control and exited the racing surface, resulting in the death of spectator Glenn Mickens (age 20). This remains a solemn moment in the track’s history and serves as a reminder of the importance of safety improvements in motorsports.

1982

Don Garrick Ownership

In 1982, Don Garrick purchased the strip and continued building the track’s popularity by scheduling:

• Thursday night grudge racing

• Sunday grudge racing

This period reinforced the track’s reputation as a place where racers and families could gather regularly and enjoy grassroots racing.

1990s

The Concrete Era

During the 1990s, Orangeburg Dragstrip was owned by Charles and Johnny Dowey. One of the most significant upgrades of this era was a major surface change:

• The asphalt was removed

• Concrete was installed

This investment greatly improved durability and helped the facility withstand heavy use over time.

2001

The DeWitts Return

In 2001, Jimmy and Zane DeWitt repurchased the track, continuing a legacy of ownership and involvement that spanned generations. Their return kept racing active at the facility and helped preserve its long-standing tradition.

2006

Major Renovations Under Buddy Boozer

The track was sold to Buddy Boozer in 2006, and the facility underwent major refurbishment, including:

• A renewed racing surface

• A refreshed facility layout

• Continued use of the iconic race tower, which had been obtained from a demolished prison

These upgrades helped modernize the track while maintaining unique character and history.

2018

Facility Improvements & New Mud Facility

In late 2017, the facility changed ownership again and underwent major improvements before opening for racing in late February 2018. Upgrades included:

• Replacement of old guardrails with concrete walls

• Built a 2-acre mud pit 

• Rebranding to SC Motorplex 

• Addition of acres of new parking

• Built concessions patio and renovated bathrooms

These improvements helped strengthen the facility’s foundation for future growth.

2023

A New Chapter Under Local Ownership

In December 2023, the track entered a new chapter under local ownership when Candice Roberson purchased the facility. Born and raised in the Orangeburg community, Candice grew up around the sport — her parents raced, and the dragstrip has long been part of the region’s culture and identity.

After more than 12 years working in community and economic development for the City and County of Orangeburg, Candice recognized the importance of preserving motorsports as both a tradition and a driver of local growth. Her mission is simple:

“I bought SC Motorplex because I believe drag racing is part of Orangeburg’s identity — and I’m committed to keeping it alive, local, and growing for the next generation.”

Since taking ownership, Candice has focused on restoring trust, strengthening operations, and expanding what the track offers, including:

• Returning the facility to a family-run, locally invested business

• Rebuilding the track’s reputation for reliable payouts and keeping our word

• Hosting IHRA Division 9 Team Finals

• Diversifying the schedule with new programs and events

• Adding crowd-favorite Beater Car Racing to the lineup

• Bringing major categories back, including the return of Pro Mods to Orangeburg after years away