Sage Howlett shows the checkered flag to a pack of cars racing to the finish line at the Gold Pan Speedway on Aug. 28. Racing had to be stopped at the Quesnel Auto Racing Association’s fan appreciation day, as a harsh storm soaked the track, and lighting was seen striking the ground in the area. (Cassidy Dankochik Photo - Quesnel Cariboo Observer)

Storm cuts Quesnel Auto Racing Association fan appreciation day off

The action was electric both on and off the track at the Gold Pan Speedway

Drivers from around B.C. had their day cut short at the Gold Pan Speedway on Aug. 28.

The Quesnel Auto Racing Association’s (QARA) Fan Appreciation Day was rained out before the final races of the day. A large storm system appeared to miss the oval, but a harsh downpour with lightning and hail soon followed, preventing racing for the rest of the day.

Only the street class got their main 25 lap race in before the weather stopped all attempts at racing, with Byron Hesselgrave taking home top spot with a 6:48 time.

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In the pro-mini class, Jeremy Floer took the only heat of the day, a 10-lap race.

Kolten Appler took the Bonestock heat and Amanda LaFlamme won the Hornet class heat.

“This will be the last race for our club president after 42 years of service,” QARA club secretary Mallary Hyushka said. “Thank you Gerry Brown for your dedication to our club.”

The QARA will host one more race weekend in 2021, the Fall Classic on Sept. 18 and 19. In addition to the local classes, there will be Wescar and Legends classes racing.

More information will be released on the QARA’s Facebook page.

Do you have something to add to this story, or something else we should report on? Email: cassidy.dankochik@quesnelobserver.com


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Quesnel Cariboo Observer

 

Lawrence Barks limps his damaged car back to the pits after crashing in a dash race. Barks would repair his car to enter the main street class race, but would be unable to finish. Racing was cut short due to a storm rolling through the oval, bringing rain, hail and lightning. (Cassidy Dankochik Photo - Quesnel Cariboo Observer)

Lawrence Barks and Rolt Hagedom battle on the back straight for spots during the 25-lap street race. (Cassidy Dankochik Photo - Quesnel Cariboo Observer)