Martin Betz has been named executive director of the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum presented by Automobile Club of Southern California at the Fairplex in Pomona, Calif., it was announced today by the museum’s board of directors.
Betz, a longtime automotive and motorsports enthusiast, has more than 35 years of experience working in the museum and exhibition fields, managing performing arts centers and art museums. Most recently, he was the Principal Consultant/Curator for Single Tree Arts in Redondo Beach, Calif., where he developed exhibitions and strategic partnerships focusing on diversity; oversaw strategic planning and fundraising programs; developed public art commissions and projects for arts organizations and architectural firms; and organized special events for arts and culture organizations.
In his new position, Betz will be responsible for administrative operations and fundraising efforts for the museum, which is located on the grounds of the LA County Fairplex complex, also home to historic Auto Club Raceway at Pomona. He will also be responsible for the overall management of the museum’s two biggest fundraising events: the Holley NHRA National Hot Rod Reunion presented by AAA at Beech Bend Raceway in Bowling Green, Ky., and the NHRA California Hot Rod Reunion presented by Automobile Club of Southern California at Auto Club Famoso Raceway in Bakersfield, Calif.
“The Board of Directors is pleased that the museum will gain the benefit of Martin’s wealth of experience in all facets of managing a successful museum,” said Tom McKernan, board chairman. “Great changes are impacting museums and many challenges must be successfully managed. Martin’s leadership, along with a dedicated staff, will help move the museum forward toward a successful future.”
“I am thrilled to join the team at the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum,” said Betz. “Since my days at Claremont High School, within earshot of the Auto Club Raceway in Pomona, I have been involved in motorsports. I have many interests ranging from European sports cars to ‘70s muscle cars (the favorite being my Lemon Yellow 1971 Buick Skylark Custom), and, of course, drag racing! I look forward to putting my expertise in museums and my passion for motorsports to work and build upon the success of the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum
For more information go to nhramuseum.org or nhra.com
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