CAMPING RVing AT THE TRACK &

PETERBOROUGH’S ACC

Another track with a significant camping presence during a major event is Peterborough Speedway. The 1/3-mile oval has 224 campsites that sell out for their Autumn Colours Classic, with an estimated 2,000 people in the campgrounds.

The traditional end to Ontario’s short track racing season takes place on the Thanksgiving weekend and has been a mainstay on many fans’ calendars.

“When COVID hit, some of the comments we saw were people that were 20 or 21-years-old and (said) ‘what are we going to do for Thanksgiving, we’ve always had Thanksgiving at the Autumn Colours, in the campground,’” said Peterborough owner JP Josiasse. “The event is 30 years running, so there are some people who have been born into it and that’s all they’ve ever known.”

Most of the campsites get renewed on a yearly basis, but Josiasse says that eight to ten spots normally become available in late January/early February, with some VIP sites being sold later in the year. He notes that there’s a waiting list for any lastminute openings. While spots may be hard to come by, there are advantages when it comes to location.

“Some people want to be at the top, so they’re close to the pit entrance; if they’re racing, they can run back-and-forth to the camper quickly,” said Josiasse. “The bottom, towards the road, is normally a little quieter. I personally, if I was camping, would want to be at the bottom because I’m backing onto trees, but it depends what you’re looking for.”

Campers can spend the night before and after a regular season race at the track, while Autumn Colours camping opens early Wednesday. There are no facilities, except during Autumn Colours, where there are portable toilets and access to the main tower, which has washrooms with running water.

LRR’S MIKE SCHMIDT

The culture and convenience of camping at the racetrack is something that stands out to fans and members of the motorsports community alike. APC Series team owner and sponsor Mike Schmidt regularly camps at the short tracks on the APC Series schedule.

“(Camping) turns what usually is one night of activities into multiple days of being ‘away’ and having fun,” said Schmidt. “When the (London Recreational Racing) gang gets together, it’s a ton of fun and non-stop laughs.”

Schmidt says that late-night campfires and bench races are activities that stand out from the great times they’ve had camping at the track, with family and friends. He also noted the benefits of having a home away from home.

“It’s awesome to wake up at the track, no rushing, (we) can enjoy the morning,” said Schmidt. “Nice to have your own washroom and shower at the track. Can prepare your own food and drinks. Nice to have a place to relax and cool down on a hot day; don’t have to drive home late at night. My wife is much happier to go to the races when the trailer is there.”

Whether a road course or oval, long weekend or nearly week-long affair, camping has become a huge part of the racing experience for fans across the country. IT