Riverside Speedway, Motorsports track in Canada
Riverside Speedway is a short oval track about one third of a mile long, built for stock car racing with four steeply banked turns at 14 degrees and two straightaways with 5-degree banking on both sides. The asphalt surface allows cars to race at high speeds while drivers navigate different routes through the corners.
The speedway was built in 1968 and opened in 1969 by John Chisholm, inspired by Bristol Motor Speedway with advice from NASCAR co-founder Bill France, Sr. It became an important racing venue in eastern Canada after attracting top drivers like Benny Parsons in 1975.
The speedway is a gathering place for racing fans from across the region who share their passion for motorsport and cheer together during race days. Spectators wear team colors, sit along the fence, and exchange stories about memorable races that have become part of local history.
The speedway is located in James River, Nova Scotia, a short drive from Antigonish and easy to reach by car. Visitors can reserve tickets and camping spots in advance and should arrive before races begin to find good seating near the fence.
The speedway was modeled after the famous Bristol Motor Speedway but became the first track of its kind in eastern Canada. The annual IWK 250 race was redesigned in 2007 to raise money for the local IWK Health Centre hospital in Halifax.
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