ST: Barrie Speedway sold to new ownership, track likely to close

Following a slew of rumors throughout the off-season to date, Barrie Speedway has been sold by APEX Motorsports to Stan Dunford and the Contrans Group, Incorporated.

“After negotiations with our new neighbors we believe that there is no way for the two entities to work together side by side,” Angela Clarke of APEX Motorsports said. “They have therefore bought the speedway.”

The sale marks no surprise to those within the industry as rumors originally kicked up about a possible sale of the speedway during the middle of October when Contrans Group, Incorporated bought Burl’s Creek, the adjacent property to the speedway. Contrans Group, Incorporated bought the property to host Boots & Hearts, one of the biggest country music festivals. However, at the time, the owners weren’t set to sell the speedway, as told to the Barrie Examiner in November.

Though as noted by Clarke, discussions happened between the two parties, resulting in the sale of the speedway.

The tight 1/3 mile bullring has produced many memorable moments through the years, with side-by-side battles right down to the checkered flag in all divisions, from the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series to the local levels.

In response to the news, fellow tracks in the area have responded with comments of their own.

Mark Dilley has announced that Sunset Speedway will hold a driver’s meeting on Saturday January 31st to let Barrie Speedway drivers discuss the rules, and possibly joining the track for 2015.

Meanwhile, Full Throttle Motor Speedway owner Gord Bennett posted the following statement:

I hate rumors but if they are true about Barrie Speedway, Full Throttle Motor Speedway would like to extend a hand out to all BSW competitors and fans on the lost of a local Speedway which is never good in our sport as our own speedway (former Varney) was in jeopardy of closing just a year ago until I purchased it and planted new roots for generations to come. We will do whatever it takes to preserve local stock car racing and by giving our 100% attention to build our product and image at FTMS. You are always welcome at Full Throttle and we will accommodate your rules and classes to be able to race competitively. Sad day but thankful of my contributions to help out any racing friends and family. Gord