Columbia, SC (WLTX) - Longtime USC Sports Information Director Kerry Tharp and current NASCAR executive Kerry Tharp is the new president of the Darlington Raceway.
He spent 20 years in charge of the sports information department at USC and now Kerry Tharp is returning to the Palmetto State.
Tharp is the new president of the Darlington Raceway, succeeding Chip Wile who took the same position at the Daytona International Speedway.
Tharp has been working for NASCAR since April of 2005, serving in a variety of public relations roles.
Prior to joining NASCAR, Tharp was in athletic media relations for 26 years, 20 of them at USC where he oversaw the sports information department.
“I am deeply humbled and honored to have this opportunity,” Tharp said. “I love the state of South Carolina and its people. I know how special Darlington Raceway is to this state and to the sport of NASCAR. The track’s rich tradition, history, and popularity resonate with the competitors, partners, media and most importantly the fans. I look forward to working with our team to help keep Darlington as one of our sport’s crown jewels.”
He has a Bachelor's Degree in PR from Western Kentucky University and a Masters Degree in Communications from the University of Tennessee.