Bicknell Driving School Snowballs Into All Day Test

Story By: JIM IRVINE / MERRITTVILLE SPEEDWAY – THOROLD, ONT – After Friday’s snowfall, the annual Bicknell Racing Products Chassis Seminar and Pete Bicknell Driving School was close to being snowed out April 8th. Merrittville Speedway’s Track Crew went right to work Saturday Morning while the class portion was in session, plowing the d-shaped racing surface.

“We have worked the track for a few weeks and had it packed pretty good in anticipation of the weather,” said Instructor Pete Bicknell, “the track came in really nice and stayed in great shape right through to the last session in the evening … the grounds weren’t in the best shape however. Thanks to (Merrittville owner) Don and his team for getting the facility as best as it could be … and thanks to everyone in the school and evening session for their patience.”

When it comes to Saturday April 15th’s Test and Tune Session at Merrittville – the biggest question is … who is ready for it more?

Race Fans looking to put this past Winter behind them … Race Teams who have been hard at work during the off season on their machines or new owner Don Spiece – looking forward to the start of his first season?

“Over the winter it’s been a work in progress,” said former Pro Stock Champion and second generation racer Spiece of Welland,, “from new and returning sponsors to new and returning staff and EVERYONE that has helped … THANK YOU. With the 66th Season just ahead – I’m confident that 2017 will be an entertaining one for the fans!”

For the Bobcat of Hamilton Weekly Racing Series Teams – it’s Spring Training and the pre-season all wrapped up in a one day session to test out the new car and for some – a new division.

Drivers representing the Hoosier Stocks and the Central Fabricating 4 Cylinders will be looking for all important seat time in preparation for the 2017 Championship Chase Kickoff presented by Pinty’s Delicious Foods – Saturday April 29th.

Saturday April 22nd’s Peters Excavating Spring Sizzler will see the Pinty’s358 Modifieds, S&W Service Centre Sportsman and Wood Motor Company Modified Lites in action in addition to the Season Opener for the Patriot Sprint Tour.

While the evening session April 15th is intended for the Thorold facility’s BoHWRS Divisions – drivers from other classes are expected in including RUSH Late Models, and local Sprint Car Teams looking to prepare for visits of the Patriots, the Lucas Oil Empire Super Sprints and the Southern Ontario Sprints throughout the season.

Race Teams should make note that the Pit Gates will open at 12 PM April 15th for Inspection with the first Test and Tune Session scheduled for 5:00 PM. Cars will not be allowed on the track until they are inspected.