Wed, 15 Dec 1999, 11:13 PM Bandimere Speedway Looks Forward

Courtesy of Bandimere Speedway To Remaining Two Race Seasons in Current Location

MORRISON, Colo. -- Someone once said, "Planning is bringing the future into the present so that you can do something about it now." Believing this to be true, the family and staff at Bandimere Speedway, Colorado’s nationally-recognized dragstrip, are making plans to make a move to a new facility after 41 years in the same location in time for the 2002 race season. The current location will be fully operational for both the 2000 and 2001 seasons.

"It has been 11 years since the facility went through a $4 million rebuilding process due to requirements by the National Hot Rod Association and the building of the C-470 highway. The improvements were needed in order for us to retain our national event – the Mopar Parts Mile-High Nationals," states John C. Bandimere Jr., the speedway’s President. He adds, "Many of the issues that faced us then were addressed in the renovation, however we cannot put our heads in the sand and hope that the issues facing us today will go away."

Knowing that the present location would one day be too small to accommodate the many racers and their growing operations, Bandimere has been seeking possible new locations for nearly a year. Then within the past six months, an investment group headed by Colorado developer Chris Fellows placed an offer on the property, making the need for an earlier than expected decision.

John continues, "The racing entertainment facility of the 21st century must have modern restrooms, concession and souvenir locations. Seating must have backs and be easily accessed from paved parking lots. It is obvious that without space it is impossible to grow the entertainment aspect of our sport. To spend more funds at this location is foolish when we are out of space."

Presently, Bandimere Speedway holds nearly 130 events each year including the NHRA Mopar Parts Mile-High Nationals which entertains 110,000 race fans over a four-day period in July. The speedway’s race season runs April-October with the 1999 season hosting nearly 400,000 racers and fans.

The speedway’s 2000 season schedule is available now and a full-color schedule brochure will be available January 1.