Halloween Havoc brings hit-to-pass racing back

Conn explained that the main rule is simple: drivers have to hit another car to pass and keep their lap count. The number of laps determines the prize money.

“If you don’t, we start deducting laps, and that costs you money,” he said.

According to PGARA, its club started in 1952 and its current track opened in 1984.

Conn said the hit-to-pass event on Labour Day weekend has been a tradition in Prince George for years. Organizers later added Halloween Havoc because racers wanted more. He explained it’s not on the regular schedule, partly because fall weather can be unpredictable.

Flesher has been announcing hit-to-pass events since 2013. He said this racing style makes Prince George unique.

“Hit to pass specifically is a Prince George thing,” he said. “If you are attending one in B.C., here is the only place you’re going to see something like this.”

Conn mentioned that some people even plan their holidays around the September long weekend event.

“It’s a fight for spots,” he said. “This past September long weekend must have been the busiest one that I’ve seen in years.”

Flesher said that event broke the attendance record. He added that hit-to-pass is always the year’s most popular event, with the stands packed and fans even watching from the grass.

Organizers say big crowds like these help pay for the whole season of track operations.

Flesher said the last event had one of the biggest crashes he’s ever seen, involving a driver named Stanley.

“Car rolled over four times before it landed on its roof,” he said. “Fortunately, the driver was OK.”

Flesher said drivers are always trying to outdo each other. He’s seen wheels come off and engine parts fly across the track.

“Some cars that start out as mid-size or station wagons end up looking like compacts by the end of the night,” he said.

Organizers explained that each driver’s door is reinforced and at least two-thirds filled with cement.

Flesher said many drivers decorate their cars and wear costumes. He expects to see a driver known as Bat Dad this year.

Conn said the night kicks off with drivers running laps for their moment in the spotlight. After that, drivers compete for awards for best appearance and best costumes. Then the real action begins.

Organizers said gates open at 1 p.m. Time trials begin at 4 p.m., and racing starts at 5 p.m. There will be two classes: full-size cars and the smaller mayhem cars.

Flesher said VIP spots for RVs and trailers are probably sold out, so he encouraged spectators to come early.

“These events almost always sell out,” he said.

by Dave Branco

Halloween Havoc brings hit-to-pass racing back

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