‘We’re all going to miss it’: Crowds gather for Langford’s final Race Car Parade

CHEK

It was a bittersweet day for drivers and fans of Westshore Motorsports Park, as dozens of race cars enveloped the streets of Langford for the final Race Car Parade.

“We’re all going to miss it and it’s going to be very bittersweet,” said racer Spencer Carlson in an interview with CHEK News.

Formerly known as Western Speedway, the track on Millstream Road is shutting down after nearly 70 years.

In conjunction with its 44th annual Canada 200 race, a police-led parade beginning at the oval made its way to the Goldstream fountain, drawing in hundreds of fans on Saturday.

People were able to meet with drivers, get autographs and get up close and personal with cars while taking part in a pancake breakfast.

“The racing community is just so big and so strong right now, it’s just heartbreaking that we’re losing this place,” said Daryl Crocker, general manager of Westshore Motorsports Park.

The 81-acre property was sold last year with new owners planning to build a business park and residential homes. There are also considerations being made to build a film studio and hotel on the property.

But Crocker says there’s still hope for the future of racing on the South Island.

A non-profit group is aiming to build a new speedway, hopefully near the Langford area.

“You couldn’t even count the number of families and friendships that have come about because of the speedway,” added Crocker.

The park is hosting several racing events throughout the weekend and CHEK will be broadcasting the 44th annual event live Sunday.

The final event at Westshore Motorsports Park will take place on Sept. 17.

Oli HerreraOli Herrera

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