There is a "new" feeling in the air at Shasta Raceway Park: new promoter, new line-ups, new schedule, and a new focus: Fun ! Rick Faeth, the new promoter at the track, is bringing back something that has been lacking at a lot of local tracks for some time now - and that is refocusing on what racing is all about - great competition and having a good time on a Saturday night. Even with the chilly start to last week's opening night, there was a strong feeling of camaraderie, both in the pits and in the stands. Faeth's sense of humor and his dedication to the sport and to the success of the track is infectious. It spreads from the staff and officials to the drivers and then to the fans.
Last weekend the season opened with a big night of racing as the BCRA Midgets, BCRA Vintage Midgets, Legends of the Pacific and the new Monster Energy Shasta Raceway Park Late Models took to the oval for some exciting racing. Shane Hmiels, running his very first laps in an open wheel car, had a triumphant night by winning the feature event over some of the most seasoned midget drivers in the country. Matt Scott took home his first main event win in the Legends of the Pacific/SRP Legends race. And Eric Gannon took his new #2 Late Model to the victory lane in the Late Model Feature Event. And the beautiful BCRA Vintage Midgets were on hand to run a number of exhibition races as well.
Rick Faeth, himself a die-hard midget driver, even took to the track in the black and blue #85 Vintage Midget. He led 11 of the 12 lap Vintage Main Event when the engine sputtered and John McClain from Palo Cedro dashed to take the checkered ahead of Faeth. "What a night !" Said Faeth. "It was a ton of hard work, but I had the help of some awesome people who completely stepped up to help make it all come together. Racers really are like a big family, and that is what families do; help each other out." "All in all, we got the message out there, short track racing fun is back to stay in Shasta."
This Saturday, April 5th, will be A HUGE night of racing at Shasta Raceway Park. It is the first night of points racing for the Modifieds, Mini-Stocks, Bombers, AND Hornets! Add to this lineup the Monster Energy SRP Late Models who are already embroiled in a tight points battle after last weeks inaugural run. Opening night races of any season are guaranteed to be extra exciting as all the drivers make hard-charging scrambles for an early points lead.
Not only will the racing will be hot, but the weather is shaping up to be much warmer than last week's chilly race. The temperature will be warmer and the winds should be light, making for a comfortable night in the stands.
Gates open at 5pm - Racing starts at 7PM
Ticket Prices
Adult: $10.00
Seniors (Over 62): $8.00
Juniors (Ages 13-17): $8.00
Military (Must have ID): $8.00
Children (Ages 4-12): $6.00
Children under 4 are FREE
Check out the all new Shasta Raceway Park website for complete results, points, news and up to the minute information. And, while you are there be sure to sign-up for the weekly newsletter. www.shastaracewaypark.net
