Williston Basin Speedway New Season

The Williston Basin Speedway is racing into a new season with a full makeover, thanks to 2100 yards of new clay and a passionate board of five directors ready to dig in with fresh ideas and hard work. Troy Girolomo, a Williston business owner for the last 15 years, is the new track president, and couldn't stay on the sidelines any longer. Owner of G-Style Transport, GST Casing, and Roughrider Disposals, Troy saw opportunities to improve the Speedway and its operations, putting his racing and Bakken business experience to work.

For several years, the infield has not been used due to drainage issues. With the earthwork that has been done this spring, it is functional once more. The winner's circle has been moved closer to the grandstands, so the crowd can celebrate wins in closer proximity to drivers. New "hotpits", where cars are repaired during the race, will fill the winner's circle's previous location. Hours of labor from the board, race community, and volunteers saw not only new construction, but the removal of old equipment, debris, and rocks from the Speedway. They are excited to share the results of their efforts with all that come to enjoy the races!

Troy will also be introducing a new feature to the Speedway shows to involve the spectators and community. He has built a two-seater modified car, and at each race, tickets will be sold, and the raffle winner will get to ride with a driver in the car. The proceeds of these sales will be split 50/50; half to the track and half to a different charity each week.

Prizes will see a change as well, with large 2 ft. x 6 ft. printed checks replacing trophies. While not everyone has a trophy case, they all have a garage or shop where they work on their car and the checks are a great way to commemorate a win. Smaller decorative checks will be gifted to youths picked from the crowd to celebrate with winners as "Trophy Buddies", a tradition that will continue at the Speedway.

There was a practice run on May 4 and May 11 will be their Season Opener. Every other Saturday through September, action can be found at the Williston Basin Speedway, with a total of 11 shows. Notable races include the double header for the Upper Missouri Valley Fair, June 28 and 29, and the Dakota Classic Modified Tour, with stock cars, July 9.

To keep up with Speedway races and updates, you can follow their Williston Basin Speedway Facebook page, or check http://www.willistonbasinspeedway.com.