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Northwood University Named Heat Race Sponsor for Great Lakes Super Sprints

June 16, 2026
A smiling race car driver in a suit holds a "Northwood University Heat Race Winner" sign in front of his sprint car at a racetrack.

Northwood University is expanding its presence in motorsports through a new sponsorship with Great Lakes Super Sprints, one of the Midwest’s premier sprint car racing organizations.

The sponsorship reflects Northwood’s growing commitment to motorsports business education and provides another meaningful way for the university to connect with racing fans, competitors, teams, sponsors, and industry partners across Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, and beyond.

“Motorsports is one of the most dynamic areas of the automotive and mobility ecosystem,” said Dr. Dave Oventhal, Subaru of New England professor of automotive strategy at Northwood University. “Race teams, tracks, series, sponsors, media partners, and event organizers all depend on strong business strategy, marketing, operations, data, logistics, leadership, and relationship-building. Partnerships like this help Northwood show students the many career pathways that exist throughout the business side of racing.”

Great Lakes Super Sprints provides competitive sprint car racing throughout the region and has built a strong following among drivers, teams, sponsors, and fans. This partnership strengthens Northwood’s broader effort to connect students with hands-on opportunities in the automotive, mobility, and motorsports industries.

“Northwood University is proud to support Great Lakes Super Sprints and the competitors, fans, and partners who make this series so exciting,” Oventhal added. “This sponsorship aligns naturally with Northwood’s automotive heritage and our commitment to preparing students for leadership roles throughout the industry.”

Northwood has long been recognized for its automotive industry connections and distinct experiential learning opportunities, including the Northwood University International Auto Show. Through the Center for Automotive & Mobility Studies, Northwood continues to expand opportunities for students interested in automotive, mobility and motorsports careers.

“Northwood University’s growing presence in motorsports is a natural fit with Great Lakes Super Sprints,” said Barry Marlow, owner of Great Lakes Super Sprints. “Motorsports needs the next generation to be involved, not just as drivers and mechanics, but as leaders, organizers, and business-minded people. This partnership supports our racing organization while helping create new visibility, learning experiences, and career connections for students interested in the many opportunities that exist throughout motorsports.”

Fans can learn more about Great Lakes Super Sprints, including schedules and race updates, by following the series online and on social media.

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