Gear Grabbers drag race test goes flawlessly

Image credit: Shon Gamache. Club members got to test out the new drag racing equipment purchased by the Bonnyville Gear Grabbers on Saturday at the Bonnyville Regional Airport.

The Bonnyville Gear Grabbers said the new drag racing equipment went off without a hitch during their test run Saturday at the Bonnyville Regional Airport.

“We had a few little quirks with the equipment, but we got all that sorted out. And from there, everything went flawlessly,” said Shon Gamache with the Gear Grabbers.

The 1/8 mile test run was closed to the public and for members only so the club could test the equipment they recently purchased.

“We had a few people disappointed that they couldn’t go but it was an opportunity for us to set up the equipment, race, layout, logistics, all that kind of stuff,” said Gamache.

Around 30 racers did the test run before the rain forced them to shut down.

The police did show up as well – but only to race.

“That was pretty awesome. That was not set up. We had no clue. They just randomly showed up and said ‘can we make a pass?’ Naturally, we found a couple helmets and said hell yeah that would be awesome.”

Gamache explained that returning the cars to the proper area after they race causes a minor delay, but nothing substantial.

“After the racers have done their run, they obviously slow down. They turn around, and then they head back. Now we sectioned off an area with barriers so that as soon as that car hits that first barrier, that little lane we made, we can start staging the next pair cars.

“Keep it in mind those next pair cars are already done. They’re already ready to go. So it does delay things, a little bit,” said Gamache.

 

The public race is Aug. 24 at the airport with a cost of $10 for the public. To enter the drag races is $60.

A second drag race date is set for Sept. 14.

“You don’t need to be a member to race anybody and everybody can show up. We’re already expecting cars from all over Alberta.”

Gamache thanks the volunteers and lane sponsors, Overdrive Heavy-Duty Services and Northern Truck and Industrial Supply – Napa Traction.

For more information on the drag races go to the Gear Grabbers website.