There are some things in life that are a once-in-a-lifetime type of experience. Meeting a Nascar race car driver is definitely one of the experiences, but being driven around a race track in a modified racing car by Nascar race Steve Arpin definitely takes the cake!
Eagle Motorsports and Joey Galloway Racing is hosting their first 'Flying High at the Eagle Showdown' race day on Saturday, Oct. 1. Located one mile west of Manor on highway 13, the event is sure to attract both racers and spectators with a day packed full of events.
Hot laps are scheduled to start at 1:30 p.m. with the racing slated to begin at 2 p.m. You won't want to miss it with modified, street stock and hobby stock race cars all on hand to take part in the race day. "We are drawing cars in from Alberta to Ontario to down in the States, said one of the organizers, Derrick Big Eagle. "So it will be more than just local drivers here." That combined with an opportunity to watch and meet Nascar driver Steve Arpin is sure to fill the grandstand.
One of the local favourites, Joey Galloway, will also be on hand to race and is a co-organizer of the event. Galloway came to Manor three years ago to assist Big Eagle for a week with his own racing. He has been here ever since and has certainly made his mark on the race circuit. Galloway, who grew up in the same hometown as Arpin, was influential in bringing this racing professional to our area.
"This is kind of a way to bring all of our customers together, along with some other cars and racers, to show them what we [Eagle Motorsports and Joey Galloway Racing] have to offer," said Galloway. "It will be nice to be able to show people what the shop is like and the track, and to kick it off with a little party. It worked out well that Steve Arpin could come out. He'll bring a lot of people out here. It's an opportunity for kids to come out and meet a Nascar driver and get an autograph."
Big Eagle supported that. "That's one thing about Steve. He's a real personable guy and he loves the kids, and loves the fan base. I think it will draw in another group of people that may not have come to the race otherwise."
Following the racing, spectators will then have their chance to take a ride in either a two-seater late model or modified racing car. At speeds of up to 70 to 80 miles per hour, these rides are something you will never forget. Rides cost $100 for 5 laps with all proceeds from the day going to the Manor Fire Department.
"We thought we would offer rides so that everyone could have the experience and the adrenaline rush if they want it," said Big Eagle. "It also allows the rider to see the technique and focus that it takes to drive one of these cars. Davin Emmel will run the two-seater late model and then Joey and Steve will take turns in the modified two-seater. They are kind of the local favourites, so we thought we would make that available."
"It may seem like quite a bit at 100 dollars, but I'll tell you what, it will be the best 100 dollars you'll ever spend on a ride. It is something that you will never forget. Plus, all of the proceeds are going to Manor Fire Department. In Manor, we have a really good bunch of driven, middle-aged guys that love what they do, and I think that sometimes they get overlooked. When they found out they were getting the proceeds, they were very happy about it. We are trying to give back to the community and focus on community development. We will probably change where the proceeds go every year."
A barbeque supper will follow the afternoon of racing at a cost of $10 a plate available from 6 to 8 p.m.. The cabaret will follow at the race shop starting at 8 p.m.. For only $10, you will be treated to music from Third Degree Birnz and a whole ton of fun! Camping spots are also available on the grounds for those that wish to spend the evening partaking in the fun.
With everything held on the grounds, it ensures that you won't miss a thing. Entrance fees are only $25 for car and driver, $15 for a pit pass and $10 for the grand stand. For more information, call 577-7848 or 421-7225.
