The first-ever street legal Thunder in the Valley event raced on Stamp Avenue is in the books, and it has been an overall success.
Yes, there were some speed bumps along the way, and that was to be expected—the drag races are a large event to have to re-plan at a new venue. However (and despite the weather), once the event got underway, organizers were happy with the way everything ran.
Neighbours up above Stamp Avenue held a block party on Saturday, deciding if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em.
The one partner that should be acknowledged is Catalyst Paper. The plant opened its doors and cooperated with the AVDRA to create an entire venue within its fences: brush was cleared, hedges were pruned right back so spectators could see the racetrack from the stands through chainlink fences, and the company’s grounds were transformed into racing pits and parking lots.
All through the weekend, workers carried on with their shifts inside the paper plant while the races were held outside.
The drag racing community, and those who enjoyed the races, owe Catalyst and its employees a debt of gratitude.
Now that the AVDRA has one event on Stamp Avenue under their collective belt, it won’t be a surprise to see a second event held at the same venue next year.
All that remains is to see what kind of economic benefit the event enjoyed by holding it in town as opposed to out at the regional airport.