AND THE WINNER IS : WISCASSET RACEWAY
If mid-October’s turnout and the mood among drivers and fans provided any kind of litmus test as to the future of Wiscasset Raceway, then “Maine’s Biggest & Fastest” could indeed have a bright future ahead. Things have been quiet in the hills bordering Wiscasset & Alna for much of the summer. The once buslting racetrack had fallen quiet with a “For Sale” sign replacing the sign that would typically welcome fans each weekend. But on October 15th, thanks to a large and enthusiastic group of volunteers, the track came to life for one day and the result was astounding. Over 2000 fans & supporters packed the stands on the sunny & blustery autumn day to watch nearly 170 cars circle Maine’s fastest oval as a sign of support in a cause deemed “Save Wiscasset Raceway”. Local businessmen Tony True & Dale Chadbourne got together, leased the track, and put the event together to spotlight the viability of the track to potential buyers and to keep Wicasset town noise ordinances in effect, making it easier for a buyer to keep the 42 year facility alive. The pair called it a non-profit raceday “with a twist”. Fans & drivers alike were charged a modest $5 admission fee in which all proceeds went back to sponsors who stepped up to cover the cost of putting on the event. Any money left over would be split evenly between all drivers participating. The promotion drew fans & drivers from throughout northern New England, some who had not been to the track in years. One particular guest that caught the attention of many was Wiscasset native Wilfred Cronk, the man who originally built the track back in 1968. “This day has been amazing” said Chadbourne. “It’s bigger than I ever imagined, I’m speechless”. True echoed his friends thoughts as the two recieved placques of recognition and enthusiastic appluase from the grateful audience during a break in the action. “I can’t think you guys enough. This will hopefully show someone out there, interested in buying this place, that this place can work and people want to see this place succeed”. Word came later in the day that there were as many as three interested parties at the track on the 15th taking in the show. While fans got to see many of their favorite drivers in victory lane thoughout the day, the general concensus was that the track itself and the event organizers were the big winners.
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