Powell pays tribute to LVMS founder.

Following the death of Imperial Palace casino owner and Las Vegas Motor Speedway co-developer, Ralph Engelstad, Chris Powell, president and general manager of the facility has issued a tribute.

"All of us associated with Las Vegas Motor Speedway are saddened by the death of Ralph Engelstad," Powell said. "It was Mr. Englestad's vision that contributed in large part to the decision to build this wonderful facility, and we will be forever indebted to him for it. On behalf of our chairman, Bruton Smith, the speedway's employees and the hundreds of thousands of motorsports enthusiasts who have enjoyed events here at LVMS, we send our condolences to the Engelstad family."

Imperial Palace casino owner and Las Vegas Motor Speedway co-developer Ralph Engelstad, 72, died of cancer Tuesday night at his Las Vegas home.