High-octane autocross thrills hit Fort St. John on Canada Day

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The Peace Region Motorsports Association (PRMA) will bring their high-octane driving action to Fort St. John on the long weekend.

Home Hardware will host the autocross event in their parking lot at 9820 108th Street on June 30th and is sanctioned by the Canadian Automotive Competition Club (CACC) 

PRMA president Ryan Mucci has assisted in putting the race together for the past two years and says the event has become a Canada Day holiday tradition.

He added that 108th Street in front of the store will be closed off for a makeshift pit stop for the entries.

“We’re always excited for the Home Hardware event. It’s something that we always look forward to,” said Mucci. 

“Even if you just got your license yesterday, you can compete if you have a safe car for the road. It is open literally to anybody.”

The best of six runs in three classes—Competition, Street, and Beginner—will determine the placing. 

This is based on tire size and experience, says Mucci.

“A 200 tread wear or less is a very aggressive race tire,” said Mucci. “So that will be competition. Street-class will be your average run-of-the-mill street tire. Beginner will be participants who haven’t run more than one event. ”

“I have seen some participants run on winter tires even because of the extra grip they provide and because they are so soft.”

Mucci estimates that anywhere between 15 and 30 racers will take part. He says those who haven’t experienced the event should get there as early as possible.

“Showing up early will give spectators a real feel for the event,” said Mucci.

Lucas’ Pit Stop Catering, Confectionary and Cookery Inc. will also be on hand to provide concessions for attendees. 

The event will run on June 30th, starting at 9 a.m.  Entries are $60, and spectators are free.

To ensure the safety of the participants, there will be a driver’s meeting at 9:30 a.m. to ensure drivers pass the regulations laid out by the CACC.

Mucci said a big hand goes to United Rentals, who assisted in getting the equipment needed to organizers to clear the gravel to ensure a smooth surface for the race.

Details about the PRMA can be found on their Facebook page.