Ever since the final checkered flag of last year’s Autumn Colours Classic in October, motorsports fans in Central Ontario have been patiently waiting for the new season of action at Canada’s Toughest 3rd of a Mile Paved Oval. Saturday, May 17th their staying power will be rewarded as Peterborough Speedway kicks the 2014 season into high gear, with the Country 105/Energy 99.7 Opening Night.

Six exciting classes – the Earl Ireland Auto Sales Late Models, Paul Davis Systems Thunder Cars, Peterborough Hyundai Mini Stocks, Battlefield Equipment Rental 4Funs, Renegade Trucks and Legends – will roll from the staging area into battle. The house will be packed to the rafters, with free spectator grandstand admission for the first dance of the new agenda. J.P. Josiasse – who will begin his 15th consecutive season of ownership at the tight, tricky bullring on Mount Pleasant Road, west of the Liftlock City – says it’s all about giving the fans what they want.

“We all endured one of the longest, toughest winters in more than 20 years and it’s time to be rewarded with a hot season of racing,” said Josiasse. “The snow and cold kept everyone locked indoors much longer than they had hoped, so everybody is excited about enjoying their Saturday nights here at Peterborough Speedway and we have a great year planned.”

Josiasse says it looks like all of last year’s track champions should be back to defend their titles, but could be in for a strong fight all season long. With some fresh faces in different places, there could be new people taking the seats of honour at the annual awards banquet. From the drop of the first green flag, every driver in each of the track’s regular divisions will be working hard to get their name engraved on the season-ending hardware and feel the pride that comes with being named a Peterborough Speedway title holder.

“We always look to build on the momentum we get from a solid start and if our 2013 season is any indication, this should be another strong year for Peterborough Speedway,” added Josiasse. “The first green flag of the year is always an exciting time; not just for the fans but also every driver, team and track official. We’re looking forward to a great 2014 and happy that the final countdown is underway.”

Bullring Bullet Points: In addition to free spectator grandstand admission for the Country 105/Energy 99.7 Season Opener – Saturday, May 17th – where gates open at 4:00, with racing at 6:00, Peterborough Speedway will also host Summer Toonie Admission/Fan Appreciation Nights May 31st, July 19th and August 16th.

The highlight of every agenda at Canada’s Toughest 3rd of a Mile Paved Oval is the annual running of the Autumn Colours Classic, presented by Lucas Oil Products. This year’s edition hits the track October 10th, 11th and 12th.

Fans can always find the latest news at www.peterboroughspeedway.com or following the track on Facebook or Twitter. You can also download the free Peterborough Speedway app on your Smartphone.