Tentative plans are no longer tentative at Race City Speedway — at least for the next two years, according to officials.
While the details of the agreement remain confidential, Calgary Oval Racing Association (CORA) president Chris Paavola said the two-year extension gives the track a new lease on life.
“While we’re sad it’s only for two years, we’re ecstatic it’s for two years since we weren’t sure a deal was going to happen at all,” he told Metro, adding it means the association can move ahead with a busy season.
“It’s great and we have a lot of fun things planned. I had about 20 emails just now when I checked and a lot of people are happy,” he added.
Ald. Ric McIver couldn’t comment on the details, but has always supported the track.
“It’s nice to see council unanimously agree to have administration complete the negotiations,” McIver said.
Race City and the city have been disputing the lease for some time now so the extension has left race enthusiasts breathing a sigh of relief, Sarah Kempt said.
“I just can’t imagine Calgary not having the track, so it’s good news for now.”
Race City Speedway owner Art MacKenzie did not return calls for comment.
