Racing season roaring back in the Valley

WASILLA — It may be tough to determine which group is more excited — the drivers revving their engines eager to hit the oval or the local race fans ready for another season’s worth of action on the North Star Speedway paved race track.

It’s probably a toss up. But regardless, both will have the chance to quench their need for speed when the Wasilla-area speedway hosts its opening night Saturday.

“It’s definitely going to be exciting,” North Star Speedway promoter and race director Erika Bills said Thursday.

Opening night marks the start of the speedway’s weekly GCI Saturday Night Thunder series in which drivers can earn points in about seven different divisions. Bills said there are a handful of rookies ready to add to the competition.

But more than that, Bills stresses North Star’s ability to offer Valley fans a family friendly environment and quality option for weekend entertainment.

“It’s family oriented and affordable too,” Bills said.

General admission for adults is $10, seniors and members of the military are admitted for $8, while children ages 10-15 get in for $5. Kids under the age of 10 are free. The speedway offers group discounts and will have a variety of special rates throughout the summer season.

For example, fans who wear a NASCAR logo or the colors of their favorite NASCAR driver are admitted for only $5 on Saturday.

Next Saturday is military appreciation night, and fans with military identification also get in for $5. Bills said admission to the race track can be cheaper than taking the family to the movie theater.

“Why be inside? Go outside,” Bills said.

North Star has also scheduled its PB&J Day for Aug. 14. Fans who bring a jar of peanut butter and jar of jelly are admitted for free. Donated items will benefit the Food Bank of Alaska. It’s a cause North Star tries to support every year, Bills said.

Bills said events such as the food drive prove that North Star aims to provide a family atmosphere and help the community in addition to featuring racing action.

“People have a perception about racing, and it’s a bad perception,” Bills said. “We want to clarify that.”

Contact Frontiersman sports editor Jeremiah Bartz at sports@frontiersman.com.