The discovery of truth is prevented more effectively, not by the false appearance of things present, but by preconceived opinion, by prejudice. This is a quote by Arthur Schopenhauer, renowned German philosopher who emphasized the role of man's basic motivation, which Schopenhauer called "will".
There are many people who thought when the 2008 season ended early in Onaway, that the speedway would join the list of tracks seeing their last green flag wave. For Colleen Caron, the new promoter at Onaway Speedworld, its her will to overcome preconceived notions that brings another green flag to Onaway and another season of racing to Northern Michigan short track supporters.
Caron seemed almost bubbly when addressing her feelings about 2009, "We are so excited about the 2009 racing season. Gas prices have fallen and we are expecting a steady flow of tourists to the north. Our driver's will also feel less pain in the pocket books if prices stay reasonable."
Keeping prices reasonable is one of Colleen's strongest focus points. The track has dropped ticket prices below 2008 levels and instituted a family pack. Twenty bucks; 2 adults, 2 kids. No questions asked. "We are the most fan friendly racing facility in Northern Michigan. We have the best track, the best concessions, the best stands. Honestly, our concessions are awesome" gushed Caron.
Another false barrier the new Promoter is breaking through, is the notion Onaway is difficult to work with. "We moved our race dates to Saturday to accommodate our drivers and fans. We reached out to Kinross Speedpark and Whittemore Speedway; formed the Northern Michigan Alliance. This Alliance created rules which are very similar between all three tracks and will allow cars to travel back and forth with a minimum of changes or adjustments.
In fact, Modifieds will require no adjustments what so ever. Late Models between Onaway and Whittemore will run the exact same rules, while Kinross has some upper end allowances which might prevent some cars from traveling south. Onaway Speedworld and Whittemore Speedway also joined with Owosso Speedway on the every-other-weekend rotation of Late Models and Modifieds. This kind of cooperation and sharing will provide drivers with more opportunities to race, while softening the total commitment at any one facility.
Its readily apparent that the new ownership isn't afraid of change. A new flagman and new track announcer will be joining Speedworld come May. As Caron put it bluntly "Whatever happen over the last 15 years at Onaway, doesn't mean that's the way its going to happen this year. Let us show you"
But changing everything just for the sake of change isn't the new Promoter's way.
"When we first announced our 2009 plans, we didn't include a bomber division. Well, let me tell you, those bomber driver's certainly made their feelings known" said Caron. "So we sat down with them and listened to what they had to say. They were passionate about their class and they wanted to race." You'll notice that Bombers are on the schedule for 2009 and the class is being embraced not only by the track but by the bomber community as well. Caron said "We had 12 bombers register at the early registration party". The Bomber class is unique to Onaway in that any car with a 101 inch wheelbase is legal. Front wheel drive or rear wheel drive; 4 cylinder, 6 cylinder or 8 cylinder. As long as it has an automatic, non-racing transmission and meets the strict pure stock rules of the class, its legal.
Fifty cars total registered early, a remarkably high number and one of the many tell-tale signs that Onaway Speedworld is on course for a successful 2009 racing season. "We hope to see 65 cars once the season is fully underway" said Caron.
If you plan on attending the Grand Opening, you'll have to wait till July 4th. "Opening night is May 16th, but we wanted to wait till the weather warmed up nice and the summer vacation season was in full effect. Its better for our drivers, our fans and our sponsors." said Caron.
If having an "Iron Will" and a great attitude are the secrets to success in Northern Michigan, Onaway Speedworld is on its way to a season to remember.
