Adrenaline-fueled “Hit To Pass” races return to Taylor Speedway

TAYLOR, B.C. — The checkered flag goes down on the Hit to Pass races at Taylor Speedway starting Friday the 13th.

“Hit To Pass” races are adrenaline-charged events in which drivers must contact an opposing vehicle on each lap around the 3/8th-mile oval circuit—hence the name.

This can lead to some chaos and dramatic action on the track, according to the race’s organizer, Jason Westgate.

According to Westgate, hit-to-pass races have occurred at the track since around 2016, adding that these races usually happen around Father’s Day weekend.

“[This event] is to help the guys participating in other races on the track,” said Westgate. “Pushing to the end of the season gives racers time to work on other things.”

“There’ll be rollovers. There will be cars on their side, and I’m sure there’s going to be cars up on the infield tires. It gets to be a lot of action going on in a quick amount of time.”

Westgate says any vehicle can participate, from sedans to pickup trucks to full-size sport utility vehicles.

He says some racers can spend up to $1000 on preparation for a hit-to-pass event.

“Some will spend a little more,” explains Westgate. “There are lots of resources, however, to help with that.” 

Mini Stock races featuring four-cylinder vehicles will take place between the races featuring hit-to-pass participants.

Two heats per day will be run, followed by a final race each day.  Westgate anticipates up to 20 cars will take part.

Each day’s winner will receive a trophy, and performances will earn a driver more points.  A final winner over the two days will be awarded at the event’s end.

The action under the lights begins on Friday, September 13th, with the gates opening at 6:00 p.m. and the green flag at 7:00 p.m.  

Gates will open on Saturday at 4:00 p.m., with the green flag dropping at 5:00 p.m.

Further information may be found on Taylor Raceway’s Hit-to-Pass Facebook page.