70th Anniversary Race Weekend Canceled, Awards Picnic Moved to Nostalgia Day
Official management at Hagerstown Speedway has made the difficult decision to cancel the 70th Anniversary Celebration race weekend originally scheduled for October 13-14, and end the 2017 campaign earlier than expected.
“Insufficient attendance at area tracks and competing against other venues are two risks that are not necessary to take this late in the season. It has been a constant struggle to coordinate events with area tracks. Seeing other promoters gamble on big purse events and come out in the red is not a comforting feeling. We took time to develop an attractive purse and program. Knowing there are other venues to compete against along with the possibility of poor weather and attendance, it only makes good business sense to close early.” said promoter Doug Timmons.
So with those tracks competing against each other this late in the year, along with cooler weather and football season in full swing, it gets tough to schedule races to have a good fan turnout.
“Racers get pumped up and want to put on a good show in front of a good crowd of fans, and when there are too many other options of entertainment for fans elsewhere this time of the year, it is best to not take a huge financial risk. We feel it is in our best interests to look forward to 2018.”said general manager Lisa Plessinger.
In the best interests of all of those involved, Hagerstown Speedway officials have decided to make their 70th Anniversary Nostalgia Day on Sunday, October 15 completely free of charge to all who attend. There will be an open track test & tune along with exhibition races, along with an antique car and tractor exhibit. Only a signature of release will be required to enter the pit area this day.
The Championship Awards Picnic has also been moved to October 15th at 1PM. Those interested in buying tickets for the ceremony may contact Lisa Plessinger at the speedway 301-582-0640 ext. 202. Fans wishing to watch the awards ceremony may do so, but a ticket must be purchased to participate and eat.
The entire staff of Hagerstown Speedway sincerely thanks all of the racers and fans that supported Hagerstown Speedway during our 70th year of operations in 2017. We wish everyone the very best during the off-season, and we are looking forward to having everyone return for a 71st year of racing in 2018.