Counting the Days to Peterborough Speedway’s 2020 Opening Events
B
y Jim Clarke, Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media
Good things come to those who wait. For fans of Saturday night racing at Peterborough Speedway, the wait is almost over. The track’s first events of the 2020 season have finally been announced. After spending time working through all 3 stages of the provincial government’s COVID-19 recovery plan, the venue known as Canada’s Toughest 3rd of a Mile Paved Oval will open the gates as long-time supporters Crowe’s Gas and Dart Heating & Air Conditioning, in partnership with Lakeport Power and Cornerstone Builders present racing Saturday, September 19th and September 26th with a 5:00 green flag each night.
“The pandemic has played havoc with our scheduling but like in the days leading-up to any season opener, our team will be working hard to get everything ready,” said track owner and promoter J.P. Josiasse. “Soon we’ll get to race for real. Our fans and racers are excited to be returning to action. Its been a long time coming, but we’re all sure that it’ll be well worth the wait.”
The first of the 2 shows will include the Battlefield Equipment Rental Bone Stock, Jiffy Lube Mini Stock, KOD Disposal Super Stock and Trailers Plus Ontario Legend divisions. The second date will have the Bone Stock, Mini Stock and Legends, along with the Ontario Midgets; a collaborative effort between the OSCAAR Pro Sprint and Outlaw Midget classes. Each event will have a next day rain date if necessary. On-line registration is now open at www.peterboroughspeedway.com for the Mini Stock, Super Stock and Ontario Midget divisions.
Josiasse says that things will be a little different when the track opens-up for these 2 shows, with provincial government protocol designed to keep everyone safe being a high priority as they prepare for the green flag. Officials are working through a checklist that includes the most recent requirements for things like contact tracing and social distancing.
“At this point, restrictions have limited Peterborough Speedway to 100 grandstand tickets,” Josiasse explained. “Fans interested in tickets for either or both of the 2 planned race dates can enter a lottery for the available spots that will follow a procedure similar to the race team registration. Grandstand tickets – with a limit of 2 per person – are $40 each and will need to be pre-ordered. Please send your requests to jp@peterboroughspeedway.com. Any season ticket holders are asked to contact the track or me directly.”
Josiasse went on to say that officials are looking to make decision on Autumn Colours is expected in the near future. The goal is to have some sort of event Thanksgiving Weekend, subject to government restrictions.
Fans are encouraged to visit www.peterboroughspeedway.com, while liking the Facebook and following the Twitter social media platforms for additional news and information. There is also a free track app available for smartphone users.
