Tag Archive for: Car Racing

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.

Racing in Merritt BC

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. 

Racing in Merritt BC

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 day for racing

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.

Seniors Discount at the races

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. 

Truck sprays water on track

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

Carving Time! Photo Credit: Tania Stewart

Racing in Merritt BC

Nicola Valley racing at Merritt Speedway

4 Season Getaway

 

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Clearwater Speedway

Merritt Speedway Brings New Life to Sister Dirt Track

What happens when you are a member of a race track during a pandemic?

Clearwater Speedway – With no racing in 2020 anywhere including Merritt BC Canada, many racers were just vibrating, waiting, hoping, and dreaming racing. Well, good news for racing fans, the Merritt Speedway “the home of dirt track racing in the Nicola Valley”  helped resurrect a track that has been shut down since about 2006. That race track is the Clearwater Speedway.

clearwater speedway in bc

Clearwater Speedway. Photo credit: Susanne Snider

How does Clearwater Speedway happen?

A few Merritt Speedway racers attended an event in Rimby, Alberta called The Covid Cup in 2020. They travelled 12 hours to the event and almost got rained out for the weekend.  Consequently, the Merritt racers were caught, at times, waiting the rain out, under a tarp in a torrential downpour. The question going around circles was, “Why are we here?” Followed by, “there must be a closer venue”. Almost unanimously “Clearwater!” was said out loud. These five members got busy and had a soft opening of the dirt racing track in Clearwater, British Columbia, Canada in July of 2021. 

merritt speedway crazt times on a dirt race track

Chills and Thrills at Merritt Speedway Photo by Ken Beckett

Clearwater Speedway was once a busy, fun dirt track

Located at  75 Camp Two Rd, Clearwater, BC, the race track came on hard times in 2006. At the time the support just wasn’t there 15 years ago. In other words non-profit race tracks are a lot of hard work, insurance is expensive and there are never enough volunteers. Therefore it seemed like the right thing to do for the Merritt Speedway, who has been running consecutively for 30 years, to lend a hand and make it happen. 

dirt track race car racing in BC

#33 Ryan Sorenson & #13 Dennis Smith. Photo credit by Ken Beckett

Dirt Track Circuit in Pemberton, Merritt and Clearwater BC Maybe?

Currently there are quite a few Clearwater racers and their families that travel to Merritt to race. With a devoted racing community and more joining yearly, it’s the right time to get things started. The property has a new owner who is truly on board with the restoration as he remembers attending events years ago. Clearwater Mayor and council passed the final adoption of the rezoning application for the speedway.

Clearwater Dirt Track 2021

#89 Colin Reimer Street Stock Clearwater Invitational Champion Photo by Meghan Reimer

Clearwater Speedway is a sister track to Merritt Speedway, and ran 6 races this year.
In particular there were three classes competed – Late Model, Street Stock and 4 Cyl Bomber.

While in Merritt we ran the regular amount of races this season – Late Model, Street Stock, 6&8 Cyl Bomber, 4 Cyl Bomber and Junior 4 Cyl Bomber. B.C. Micro Mini Sprints came out to play four races as well. This years race season is complete, the enthusiasm from racers and fans, even with Covid 19 safety protocols and restrictions, was very promising. The community support has been amazing, but local volunteers are still very much needed.

 

 

Contact:  Clearwater Speedway
Website: www.merrittspeedway.ca  or  www.clearwaterspeedway.ca
email:  merrittspeedway@outlook.com

Clearwater, British Columbia, Canada Dirt Race Track

Merritt Speedway, Merritt BC, Canada

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“Experience Community Program” is a small and rural community authentic content marketing program. It is a product of the EH? Canada Marketing Group.  Contact us today to bring this award winning community program to your region. 

Racing in the Nicola Valley with Merritt Printing

Merritt Printing plays many roles in the Nicola Valley supporting businesses and events

2020 has been hard on many business, and that is why more than ever it is important for all of us to support local small businesses

 

Racing in the Nicola Valley and Merritt Printing have both brought people together in Merritt BC and beyond for many years, not only to watch racing but in support of racing. Locals, out-of-towners and racers bring their family members and best buddies, some join the racers in the pits, most take a seat in the stands. All are reading and buying items printed by Merritt Printing. 

2020 has brought about many changes to the world, and it hasn’t spared anyone or anything.  Racing has been delayed or cancelled, fans are left out, all are waiting and hoping. The effects reach even further, it affects services and businesses all over town.

Racing in the Nicola Valley

Grass growing on track surface at Merritt Speedway 2020

Merritt Printing and Racing in Nicola Valley

You would not believe what just one business, like Merritt Printing, provides for Merritt Speedway.  Merritt Printing is located at 1951 Garcia St and is actually three businesses in one.

1951C Garcia St. – The Engraving and Sign Shop 

Merritt Printing

Some of the items Merritt Printing provides Merritt Speedway

The Merritt Printing engraving and sign shop designs, creates and manufactures items for many Nicola Valley businesses and events including awards, signs, custom decals, custom t shirts and cups, plus many other items. Then there are the  USB’s, key chains, shopping bags, buttons, the list goes on. As well, there is something we utilize a lot of at the track is 50/50 tickets.

Marketing Racing in the Nicola Valley

Services provided by the print shop to Merritt Speedway are sponsor signs, decals, magnets, bumper stickers, year end awards and championship jackets.  Plus all those signs that tell you what to and not to do, you know the ones.  A big seller at Merritt Speedway.

1951B Garcia St. – The Office Supply Store.

All your office needs are available here includes pens, pencils, art supplies, invoice books, paper, printer inks and toners. If it’s not in store, its only usually a day away, that’s pretty good for our little town.

Oh, and office furniture too, such as desks, chairs, filing cabinets, lamps, and more. 

1951A Garcia St. -The Print Shop

Merritt Printing in Nicola Valley

Printing jobs for Merritt Speedway

The services provided at the print shop are vast. The talented staff at the shop, can perform many jobs for your business and/or events.  Bring the item with you or email it in, it can be done. 

For simpler jobs like scanning and emailing projects, the staff is always available to assist and get it done. Bigger jobs like business cards, brochures, menus, custom invoice books, lock out tags and much, much more are designed and printed in house.

Laminating is another service provided by the print shop, whether it’s a pocket card or a two foot wide by six foot item, it is all possible at Merritt Printing. If in doubt, just ask!

Racing in the Nicola Valley Printing

The amount of paper printed for the track is surprising. Print jobs include membership & car registration forms, membership cards, schedule cards, rule books, and full colour race day programs.

Support Your Small Businesses in Merritt BC

Sadly, that is just one business of many that the Merritt Speedway utilizes and one that is not getting orders from the track this season. 2020 has been hard on many business, and that is why more than ever it is important for all of us to support local small businesses.

We want to keep these services in town, not lose them to out of town sources. Come and visit Merritt Printing, you will be surprised at the many services they are supplying Merritt businesses. Drop in to the sign shop and say hi to your local Experience Nicola Valley Blogger, moi. 

Shop Local Merritt, you’ll be glad you did.

Check out Merritt Printing

1951 Garcia St. Merritt B.C.  V1K 1B8  250-378-6808

website:   www.merrittprinting.ca     

email:  merrittprinting@telus.net   

www.facebook.com/MerrittPrinting/ 

 

Empty stands at Merritt Speedway

Merritt British Columbia Canada Top Travel Guides

British Columbia, Canada – Merritt Speedway

The Home of Dirt Track Racing in the Nicola Valley

Merritt Stock Car Association located in the Nicola Valley

 

Just 8 km west of Merritt, BC, Canada on Hwy #8 you will find “The Home of Dirt Track Racing in the Nicola Valley”, also referred to as the Merritt Speedway.  The 3/8 mile dirt track was established in 1991.  There was a lot of hard work, long hours and support of many businesses and individuals to make this happen.  As a result the track was ready for Stock Car Racers to try some dirt track fun on May 24, 1992.

Zero 4 Barry Bussiere Street Stock

Drivers can be as young as 14 years old

Merritt Speedway is operated by the Merritt Stock Car Association in the Nicola Valley.  It  is a family oriented Dirt track.  Drivers can be as young as 14 years old and, well, our oldest driver currently is 78.  He drives a Late Model Stock Car.  Hence, proving that you are never too old to play in the dirt.  We encourage members as well as the public to bring their whole family to the track. Members include racers from all over B.C.  Some come occasionally from Alberta and of course hometown favorites enjoy playing in the dirt at Merritt Speedway.

Merritt Speedway - #88  Amanda Dandy  4 cyl bomber

#88 Amanda Dandy – 4 cyl Bomber, she now drives #95 in 4 cyl her husband Sean Dandy #77 races in the Late Model Class

5 classes of Dirt Track Races

There are 5 classes of Dirt Track races to see, that is plenty of great family entertainment at affordable prices.  From Mini Stock,  4 cylinder Bomber (Sr and Jr),  6&8 cylinder Bomber,  Street Stock and Late Model. 

experience merritt bc

Swag Shop & Concession

We also  have a great concession serving up some great burgers, smokies, candies etc.  Also enjoy our  Swag Shop.  There is quite the variety of  items, magnets, hats, t-shirts in many colours and styles to choose from.   So between races, the chills, thrills and spills, visit one or both.     

merritt speedway 9 bill fader

8 cylinder bomber – #9 Bill Fader

Feel free to ask questions

When racing day is over at Merritt Speedway fans are welcome to come down to the pits and visit with the racers and pit crews.  Feel free to ask questions.  Some of our drivers would be happy to give the kids a ride around the track in their cars, safely of course.  There is also a campground area for drivers, family & friends.  Visitors are welcome after the days events.

Food Bank Drive and  Toy Drive

The Merritt Stock Car Association are proud to support those who may certainly need a little helping hand.  In the fall we hold a Food Bank Drive and a Toy Drive.  Fans are welcome to participate along with the club members.

Merritt Speedway Bill John Memorial Invitational

Our last race day of the season is on Thanksgiving weekend.  Merritt Speedway – Bill John Memorial Invitational, is named for the original owner of the land the track is situated on.  This is racing at its finest, racers come from Washington State, all over B.C. and Alberta to race on our dirt track. 

For more information check out

Website:  www.merrittspeedway.ca

Facebook page:  Merritt Stock Car Association

Email:  merrittspeedway@outlook.com

 

Nicola Valley Merritt Speedway

Merritt Speedway in British Columbia, Canada is one of the last few active dirt tracks in B.C. and the last to shut down each fall.

Come Catch the Action!

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