Stock car racing offers night of family fun
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PABLO – The Mission Valley Raceway celebrated Independence Day with a night of racing on Saturday that featured late models, Pro 4 Modifieds and Hornets.
Although the evening of racing did not conclude in an extravaganza of pyrotechnics, there was no lack of fireworks as drivers raced side-by-side and bumper-to-bumper at mind-boggling speeds. The night even produced few mangled cars from crashes, including a car that careened out of control and hit the wall during warm-ups.
All this chaos and fury happens on a weekly basis on the paved three-eighths of a mile oval track which is also known as the “Fastest Show on Asphalt”.
Craig Draper and team took over management of the speedway a year ago, with the hopes of building a family-friendly track unmatched for sheer entertainment value.
“We kind of just wanted everybody to have a place to go for entertainment and to bring racing back,” Draper said. “We are investing in the community and fans to build a better track for the Mission Valley.
We’ve kept the admission fee down for the kids and adults and kept the food affordable.” Draper also noted, “The food is freshly cooked every night.”
Not only is the family atmosphere prevalent in the grandstands, it’s also prominent in the pits, as well. Drivers and their teams all jump in to help fellow competitors in need by lending an extra part, tire, tool or hand. “We all look out for each other,” said Canyon Murrin, Knutson Racing Team driver.
So, if you’re looking for something a little out of the ordinary when planning a family night out this summer, instead of the usual options: movies, boating, concerts or sporting events, try a night at the races. The next scheduled event at the Mission Valley Raceway is July 21. It will include Big Sky Late Models, Thunder Roadster and Bandoleros.
