The smell of the exhaust, the atmosphere of the track, the cheering crowd – its none other than opening season at the Grays Harbor Raceway! Gates will open at 5:30 p.m. April 21 and the first event of 2018 will take place from 7:00 p.m. to around 10:00 p.m. Expect to feel the power of the races featuring sprint cars, modifieds, street stocks and tuners all showing up in style to begin the season with a bang.
Bert Johnson is the track manager at Grays Harbor Raceway and can already feel the excitement emulating from the track. “This environment in unlike anything I’ve ever experienced,” says Bert. Having used to race at Grays Harbor Raceway himself, Bert is always eager when the beginning of another season comes into view. “It’s truly a place for fun for people of all ages. No matter the audience, there’s a type of race that anyone can get excited about.”
The scheduled season at the Grays Harbor Raceway includes various styles of races running weekly throughout the year. There are many events that draw in huge crowds, with the stadium seating able to accommodate a staggering 6,500 people. One event that’s expected to draw in an enormous crowd is a brand new class taking place on the May 12. This race will feature vintage modifieds – including many pre-WWII car bodies – and will be the only one of its kind throughout the 2018 season. A few other exciting events that are known for their popularity include the Rolling Thunder Big Rigs featuring 1000 horsepower semi-trucks on August 18, the World of Outlaws taking place on September 3 and the ever popular the monster truck show, Monster Slam 18’, happening over a two day event on September 15 -16.
One unique aspect of the Grays Harbor Raceway is the way in which racers often greet their fans after races. “Our racers really know how to treat their fans well,” expresses Bert. “This makes for a really fun and thrilling atmosphere for fans at the raceway.” Expect to see racers from across the country, as well as some familiar faces from right here in Grays Harbor. With the opening of another season, fans can also expect the usual fireworks shows that draw in the masses. Mark your calendars for July 7 for the Q Mart Fireworks and Mid-Season Championship night that will serve as a tribute to our nation’s founding, as well as another fireworks display to end the car racing season on September 8.
It’s important to note that wet weather conditions can often cause race delays, and unfortunately can sometimes cause cancellations. “For the most up-to-date information on the status of our races, visit our website and give our Facebook page a like,” explains Steve Beitler, promotions company owner. “We want our fans to stay informed on the current conditions at Grays Harbor Raceway and plan according. We are so excited to be bringing another racing season to the Harbor!”
Come, stay and play for the weekend with the great camping available at the Grays Harbor Fairgrounds. For all standard weekends the cost is just $20 per space, per night. For the World of Outlaw weekend it is just $25 per space, per night. That’s a lot of family fun for not much green!
This family fun program keeps fans coming back again and again. You won’t be disappointed when you plan a day at the raceway and experience this unique event space in Grays Harbor.
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