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DELAWARE SPEEDWAY OFFICIALLY BEGINS FIRST PHASE OF RENOVATIONS By: John Houghton FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 10, 2009 The historic and exciting words fans and racers have long been waiting to hear are now official: the first phase of facility renovations are currently underway at Delaware Speedway. Earlier this month groups of contractors descended on Delaware Speedway to begin their work overhauling and improving many areas at the facility. “We’re making a statement with these improvements,” said owner Arlen Scherba, “It’s not going to be the same old, same old at Delaware Speedway. We’re committed to making this facility the best track in Canada, and these plans are a reflection of how seriously we take that mission.” Many of the plans are aimed at “speedway modernization”, a process designed to bring Delaware Speedway to the forefront in technology for racing facilities. These include impressive changes to the speedway ticket system and concession food ordering. Modernization also means electronic timing and scoring systems and a sophisticated new computer network to go along with it. The new programs will also see great change in the number of debit card and credit card terminals available to customers. The plan also sees repairs to the historic half-mile. For the first time in decades, sections of the asphalt racing surface are being torn up and replaced. The plan also calls for large improvements to pit road. Track management have been working overtime overseeing and implementing the renovation plans. The pace of change is rapid, but management feels they will be ready for the fans. “There may be a few ‘under construction’ signs around the track for the first part of the season,” said Operations Manager Paul Houghton. “But once the fans see what we’ve been working on, they’ll be very pleased and excited. On behalf of the track I would also like to extend a thanks to all the fans, racers and sponsors who have supported the track over the years. These plans will be a great value for everyone to enjoy for years to come. These projects are about bringing the Delaware Speedway experience to new levels.” The improvements to the track are ongoing and will continue throughout the 2009 season. Here is what is set to be phased in during 2009: - The newest and finest modernized ticketing system. The new system will not only improve service at the track, but also allow fans to purchase tickets for races online in advance. The Delaware Speedway box office will operate 24/7! Delaware Speedway is slated to be the first track in Canada to offer advanced, online tickets for all events. - Top of the line timing and scoring technology has been purchased from AMB Identification and Timing. The technology is expected to improve the already high quality of scoring at the track, improve broadcast coverage of the events, and provide teams with new tools to analyze their on track performance. An improved speedway computer network is planned that will allow crews unprecedented access to the new system, a first at a Canadian oval track. - On the spectator side two new concession booths will be installed. A second spectator entrance for season pass holders and VIP guests is also planned. - The beer patio area will be receiving a number of exciting improvements, including new patio heaters that will be used on some of the cooler nights. The patio will also receive an updated look and feel with tableside servers and new patio furniture. - Food Services at the track will be using a new computer ordering system aimed at improving the speed food can be delivered throughout the facility to fans and VIP areas. Moreover, a new food supplier has been brought in and the menu has received a complete overhaul to ensure that the food at Delaware Speedway will be the best around. - The ladies washroom is receiving a complete overhaul. New walls, new paint, and new lighting highlight the improvements. - The Delaware Speedway VIP lounge is being heavily renovated to include a revamped interior with granite counter tops, televisions as well as a new bar area. This section will also include a private restroom. - An updated grandstand sound system of the highest quality is also being developed. The system is being designed to improve the quality, coverage and consistency of sound throughout the grandstand. - Sections of the asphalt racing surface are scheduled to be replaced. L82 Construction of London has been contracted to complete repairs. Turn three will be repaired along with turn four through to the start/finish line. N-J Spivak Concrete has been contracted to supply the concrete for replacing pit road which is being totally redone in new concrete. These updates will take place early in the racing season, weather permitting. Racers will soon be at the track gearing up for the racing season. April 11 and April 18 beginning at 11:00 AM are practice days at the track. Admission is free for spectators who wish to come out and take in the excitement. Access to stands and washrooms may be restricted due to renovations. The 2009 racing season officially opens on April 25 with the running of a Transmission Direct Enduro and Ultimate Sandblasting & Coating Chaos Cars event. The following week, Friday, May 1 is opening night for the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series Weekly Divisions held in support of Jesse’s Journey. 2009 season passes are still available for order - - for just $315 race fans can take in all the weekly action at Delaware Speedway this season along with special events that include the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series, ISMA Super Modified Double Header, Auto-Value Super Sprints and Lucas Oil Canadian Vintage Modifieds. Fans can contact the speedway office for ordering information (519) 652-5068 ext 202. VIP Corporate Hospitality is also available this season. To learn more about getting your company involved contact Kevin Bulmer at CPT Entertainment (Official Sales & Marketing Partner of Delaware Speedway) at (519) 280-8301. DELAWARE SPEEDWAY is a NASCAR sanctioned, half-mile paved oval stock-car track, located just west of London, Ontario, Canada. For more than 55 years, Delaware Speedway has been the home to some of the finest stock car racing in Canada. Its unique natural amphitheatre-like setting allows a family or group of friends to enjoy an exciting, comfortable and affordable evening of entertainment. Delaware Speedway is the oldest continuously operating asphalt racetrack in Canada.
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