Source — Gord Craig
LETHBRIDGE, Ab —
Bridge County Raceway president James Hadnagy has officially put an
end to off-season reports that his facility would be running a limited
oval schedule in 2012. "Yes, we were contacted to open the track for
some specials events this year but our decision to close [the track]
remains firm. There will be no motorsport events scheduled at Bridge
County Raceway in 2012 under current ownership." The track just east of
Lethbridge, Alberta shut its doors the end of September after 20 seasons
of operation.
"NO MEANS NO"
Almost immediately after the closure announcement was made, Dwight
Kennedy, the owner of Northern Provincial Pipelines Ltd., spearheaded a
behind the scenes campaign to have the facility re-opened for at least
four race dates in 2012. "It was tough saying no to Dwight," sighs
Hadnagy, "he has done so much for racing in this province. He has been
such a huge supporter of racing here in Lethbridge as well. Kathy and I
are extremely disappointed that we had to turn down the offer from NPP
for the two long-weekend races this year." Hadnagy says when the doors
closed last September that was it. "We are burned out. It's time to hand
the keys over to a new operator." Hadnagy was candid if he has
entertained any offers on the Southern Alberta track. "The upkeep of the
facility will continue for the new owners whoever they may be. No one
wants to buy a rundown race track." The Northern Provincial Pipelines
Late Model Series made its debut at Bridge County Raceway in 2006.
Edson, Alberta's Dwight Kennedy won the inaugural Feature event.
Northern Provincial Pipelines Ltd., based in Edson, Alberta, is title
sponsor of the NPP Late Model Series which brings big league racing to
motorsports fans in Western Canada.