The Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving Inc. is in the process of being acquired by Stig Investments Inc. The transaction is expected to close in the coming weeks.
Stig Investments describes itself as “a small group of business leaders with significant experience bringing organizations to maximum profitability and growth. Stig is a select assembly of entrepreneurs who are also graduates of the Bondurant school, racing enthusiasts and automobile collectors,” according to a news release.
One member of the investor group, Bruce Belser, will serve as CEO of the school. Belser is an entrepreneur who has founded several businesses, served as a corporate airline pilot for Delta Airlines, and been a fighter pilot and U.S. commander in the U.S. Air Force. Belser has attended Bondurant school twice as a student.
The new owners plan to ensure current and incoming students at the school have an excellent experience without interruption, according to a news release. Stig Investments will immediately stabilize the financial foundation of the organization and plan to infuse significant capital into the business to enhance the guest experience for individuals and groups, and provide excellent return on investment for sponsorship partners and a best-in-class work environment for employees, according to the company.
“We plan to establish the next generation of race car learning and entertainment as popularity in car racing and interest in consumer destination experiences continues to grow,” Belser said.
The school’s head instructor, Mike McGovern, who has been with the company for 36 years, and assistant instructor Danny Bullock, a 22-year employee, will continue to lead guest experience and teaching with all current instructors.
“We’ve worked diligently over the last six months to find new owners who are not only smart business leaders, but can continue Bob Bondurant’s rich legacy,” said Tim Shaffer, chief restructuring officer at the school. “Bruce Belser and his colleagues will maintain the integrity and quality of the school to the highest standards. I’m confident the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving will remain a vibrant part of the international racing and local communities for years to come.”
“As graduates of the school, we truly honor the lasting impact Bob Bondurant has made on the racing community,” Belser said. “We have a profound respect for Bob and what he has built -” an immersive experience for drivers of all skill levels. We sincerely appreciate the immense dedication of the school’s employees, students and sponsors over the last few months. Their support and hard work have been integral to keeping the company on track and will be critical as we move forward.”