RACING IN MERRITT BC

Race Day in the Nicola Valley

EXPERIENCE THE MERRITT SPEEDWAY

Racing in Merritt BC – Have I got the hot ticket for you! I’m excited to share my first-ever visit to the Merritt Speedway. For someone who is relatively new to town, I was hooked from the moment the engines roared. Follow the No. 8 road through the Nicola Valley to Marmott Rd just 5 minutes outside the city.

Eager fans await the races. (Tia Delaney)

Fun for Everyone Racing in Merritt BC

“They run stock cars on rebuilt engines,” dad says as we pull out of the driveway. I am excited as the big Race Day is finally here at the Merritt Speedway! I’ve wrangled him and my uncle to come with me as all of us are first-timers to the track. Yes, here is to growing tourism in Merritt BC!

Race Day in the Nicola Valley

I loved everything about this day, from the delicious smell of the concession to the children jumping up as the races began. However, watching the crowd, I spied lucky fans scoring the top-row seats. Everyone cheered loudly as their favorites pulled across the finish line.

Cars speeding around the track. (Tia Delaney)

Attractions in Merritt

Although moving here a year ago, I haven’t yet experienced the must-see attractions that my new community has to offer. For example, racing, fishing, camping, hiking, sledding, and exploring the many lakes and hills surrounding us. It’s an absolutely beautiful community, and I’m excited to check it all out!

Clear blue sky and racetrack. (Tia Delaney)

Nostalgia at First Glance

We pull up and make our way to a thin white building that conveniently says “Ticket Booth” along the side. It is set next to a long row of old wooden blue bleachers. The nostalgia is present as the fresh outdoor air and scenic view bring back memories of country fairs and rodeos of my youth. Above all a great way to spend a day!

Cash-Friendly Car Racing in Merritt BC

We walk up to the ticket counter, meanwhile, the announcer’s voice booms as he shares commentary on the racers, “Fire up your engines, we’re ready for some racing in Merritt BC!” The cashier waves us over, “We take cash only,” she says helpfully. I file that away under Useful Information, as I don’t want to miss out on tickets, memorabilia, and concession snacks. You really will want to put Nicola Valley racing on your activities list.

Eyes ahead, the races are on! (Tia Delaney)

A Seniors Discount

“Are you a senior?” she asks my uncle, “It depends,” he answers with a grin. “Are you over 55?” she says with a chuckle. Dad’s laugh is the answer as he rags on his younger brother, “Guess who’s a senior now!” It’s always a good time with these two, never a dull moment!

Kid Friendly Place

The cashier takes our cash, “That will be $10 each per senior and $15 for one adult.” However, note that kids 10 and under are free, definitely playing the “cool auntie” card next time the little ones are in town. For those of you looking for fun things to do in the city, it truly is a fun and affordable way to spend an afternoon.

No dust in sight with this tanker. (Tia Delaney)

Retro Water Tanker when Racing in Merritt BC

Stamped and on our way, I move closer to get a good look at the giant white tanker truck with an exposed engine to laps around the track. Firstly, I notice the sheer size of the tires. Secondly, the rate it travels is at a rocking speed. The track is thoroughly doused with water before the announcer calls the cars to the track to begin grooming it for Merritt Speedway racing.

Hear the Car Engines Roar

You can hear the roar of the engines. As a result, the whole place is beginning to sound like a Ferrari convention. It certainly is a great sound, the rumble sits low in your chest. Subsequently, you can picture yourself strapping into your car and getting ready for your first race!

A Birdseye View

I hunker down on the far bleachers with a side view of the racers coming out of the pit and navigating their first corner. Likewise, the smoke starts radiating from cars still being worked on. We still have 15 minutes until the first race begins. But most importantly, the drivers are ensuring their race cars are safe for a day at the track.

Announcing the Starting Line

The announcer’s voice booms across the field ushering in the starting Line-Up and greeting the fans. Meanwhile, I scan the crowd for those who have arrived early to take in BC’s Fastest Dirt Track. The Merritt Speedway. Moreover, it is not to be missed!

The Final Lap when Racing in Merritt BC

In conclusion, the dust settles as the final racing invitational completes its last rounds. Likewise, we raise a salute to the fans, sponsors, and drivers, as the trophies are handed out and the victory lap is taken. A successful season all in all, and happy fans look forward to the new year in anticipation.

Racing into Fall

Subsequently, with the end of the Racing Season, it’s time to get geared up for Fall. For instance, Pumpkin carving, Apple bobbing, Costume hunting, Cider sipping, and Eggnog delighting are just a few of the treats we have in store for you. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll feel you’ve fallen in love with Merritt just a little bit more!

Carving Time! Photo Credit: Tania Stewart