By Adam Brazeau
CORNWALL, Ontario – A wintery mix of horsepower and adrenaline-pumping fun will invade the Cornwall Motor Speedway next weekend as snowmobiles take to the track.
“For the first time in Cornwall, the track is ready and covered in 18 inches of ice,” Speedway spokesperson Brian Mulligan told a group of media and professional sledders at a press conference at Au Vieux Duluth on Wednesday (Jan. 21) afternoon.
The Pro Racing Circuit tour will be in Cornwall on Friday, Jan. 30, Saturday, Jan. 31, and Sunday, Feb. 1.
Jacques Villeneuve, 60, the first three-time winner of the World Championship Snowmobile Derby, previously raced the oval used for DIRT track racing at the Speedway in 1984.
“Everyone can expect a spectacular show,” said Villeneuve.
“I haven’t seen the track covered in ice yet, but there will be plenty of action because we’re going to be packed together.”
Pro Champ sled speeds often surpass the 100 mph mark, and over 80 mph into the corners. The horsepower is comparable to the 358 Modified class events that the speedway hosts during its summer venue. Each high-tech sled can run as high as $30,000, plus upkeep and parts.
Villeneuve will be squaring off against renowned drivers from across North America, including 17-year-old Steve Marquis, one of the youngest drivers to successfully pilot a Pro Champ sled.
The first race is scheduled for Friday night at 6 p.m., while Saturday and Sunday start at 10:30 a.m.
Admission is $20 (Friday, Saturday) and $25 (Sunday). A weekend pass is $50 and all prices include pit access.
Snowmobile enthusiasts are invited to drive their own sleds to the facility, signs will be in place. A fireworks display will also be taking place.
For more information, visit www.cornwallspeedway.com and visit cptracing.ca.
