Larry Croft was probably one of the best track managers in the Country. He ran Texas Raceway for many years and some of the best racers in the Country grew up there. He was famous for getting the race in on time and having a good time doing it. He set the example for others to follow and he set that bar high. On Fridays nights he would be announcing in the tower and would say almost anything. (may have been alcohol involved)

There were many times at Bracket race I heard him say something like "Okay pay out for today was supposed to be $5,000 to win but today's car count we are making a change. We are putting another $1,000 on top." While others would cut pay if they did not get the cars they wanted Larry always paid in full or more. He stood up for us and my hat is off to him. RIP.

"Nick Duty

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Larry Croft, longtime manager of Texas Raceway and a member of the NHRA South Central Division Hall of Fame. Larry passed away following a brief battle with kidney failure.
For more than 50 years, Larry was a champion of Sportsman Drag Racing across North Texas and Oklahoma. His passion for the sport, commitment to its racers, and constant drive to make the experience better for competitors and fans alike helped shape a generation of racers and track operators. For countless people in the racing community, Larry was simply part of what made going to the drag strip special.
Larry is survived by his wife of more than 66 years, Jan Croft, who spent decades working alongside him at the drag strip; his daughter and son-in-law, Lezlee Duty and Jimmy Duty; his grandson, Nick Duty and wife Tiffany Duty; and his great-grandchildren, Cameron and Kori.
At this time, no formal service is planned. But in true Larry fashion, expect an epic Celebration of Life filled with memories, stories, laughter, and undoubtedly a few tales that have gotten better with every telling. More information will be shared soon.
In the meantime, if you knew Larry, raise a glass of Wild Turkey in his honor and remember a man who devoted much of his life to the sport and the people he loved.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Larry’s memory to Racers For Christ, the Drag Racing Association of Women (DRAW), or the Drag Racers Benevolent Fund."