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Race City clouds auto show – Metro US

Race City clouds auto show

While thousands cruised around and enjoyed the hot rides at the 43rd annual Auto Value World of Wheels show this weekend, a hint of trepidation floated about.

With the fate of Race City hanging in the balance, some exhibitors arrived hoping their presence might draw attention to their cause.

“It’s frustrating because a lot of people don’t understand racing,” said 22-year-old Stephanie Straschnitzki, who has been racing for three years.

She noticed more racing cars at the WoW show this year and said it could be attributed to the controversy surrounding the track.

Brian Minto with Calgary Oval Racing Association, who set up next to Straschnitzki, said even the show might take a hit if the racing community loses its facility.

“I think the only part of this that would generally survive is the (show cars),” he said, adding that the track isn’t just about racing but about community.

Show attendee Mark Rolston said he doesn’t think there would be a race car section should the track close, but said, “I think someone else would come in and fill the spot.”

However, show manager Tom Williams said it would be a shame to see the “beautiful” facility closed but he doesn’t think the show itself would suffer.

“Racing’s in everybody’s blood here,” he said, adding there’s still enough interest in the racing community to keep the show going strong.