Edmonton International Raceway | Edmonton

The Edmonton International Raceway (EIR) is a popular motorsport venue located just outside Edmonton, Alberta, in the town of Wetaskiwin, roughly an hour's drive from downtown Edmonton. The track has been a staple of Alberta’s motorsport scene for decades, offering a variety of racing events and becoming a favorite destination for racing enthusiasts.

Overview of Edmonton International Raceway (EIR)

Location: The Edmonton International Raceway is located at 5217 45 Ave, Wetaskiwin, Alberta, situated south of Edmonton in the central part of the province. Wetaskiwin is approximately 70 km (43 miles) south of Edmonton along the QEII Highway (Highway 2).

History:

The track has been in operation for many years and is one of the most recognized short-track racing facilities in Canada. It was originally founded as Central Alberta Raceway in the 1960s and was later renamed to Edmonton International Raceway to reflect its prominence and wide appeal.

Over the years, EIR has hosted a variety of racing events, including stock car races, drag racing, and road racing. It has earned a reputation for providing exciting and competitive racing in a family-friendly environment.

The track has undergone several upgrades and improvements to accommodate modern racing standards and improve the spectator experience.

Key Features and Attractions

Edmonton International Raceway offers a variety of attractions, events, and activities for racing fans and visitors. Some of the key highlights include:

Race Track:

The main attraction at Edmonton International Raceway is its oval track, which is a 1/4-mile (0.4 km) asphalt oval. This short-track layout is ideal for stock car racing, where drivers can navigate tight corners at high speeds, creating an exciting and competitive atmosphere.

The track is known for its fast-paced racing, with high-octane performances from local and regional drivers. It's a great venue for both fans of the sport and participants to enjoy thrilling races.

In addition to oval racing, the facility also hosts drag racing events on a dedicated drag strip. This allows fans to see different forms of motorsport and caters to a wide variety of racing interests.

Stock Car Racing:

Stock car racing is one of the most popular events at Edmonton International Raceway. It features a variety of classes, from local drivers racing in entry-level events to professional drivers competing in regional series.

The Edmonton International Raceway Championship Series features local drivers and teams competing in multiple events during the summer months, including races for Late Model, Sport Compact, Super Stock, and Bomber car divisions.

Special races and events, including season finales, championships, and charity events, are held throughout the year, drawing large crowds to the track.

Drag Racing:

The drag racing events at EIR are another major attraction. The drag strip provides a platform for quarter-mile drag racing, with cars racing head-to-head in an acceleration contest.

These events bring together enthusiasts of both amateur and professional drag racing. EIR hosts test and tune sessions, as well as bracket racing and top eliminator events.

The facility is a certified drag racing venue, and these events are part of local, regional, and national drag racing circuits.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere:

EIR is known for offering a family-friendly environment where fans of all ages can enjoy the races. There are usually picnic areas, food vendors, and kids’ activities at many of the events.

The venue offers a concession stand with typical racetrack fare like burgers, hot dogs, and snacks, allowing visitors to enjoy a full day of entertainment while supporting the local racing scene.

Special Events and Festivals:

In addition to regular racing events, EIR hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including car shows, exhibitions, and special racing weekends.

Some events are themed, attracting fans of specific types of vehicles, such as classic cars or muscle cars. The track often hosts community days, where locals can come and experience the racing world first-hand, participate in fan activities, and meet the drivers.

Club Racing and Track Rentals:

The track is used not only for major events but also for club racing, where local and regional racing clubs organize races and practice sessions. These events allow new and aspiring drivers to hone their skills in a professional setting.

EIR also offers track rentals, allowing individuals or groups to rent the venue for private events, including training, testing, or even hosting their own private races.

Driver Development and Training:

The raceway offers programs for aspiring drivers to develop their racing skills. These may include driving schools, training programs, and performance driving courses. These programs are great for those looking to enter the world of racing or enhance their existing skills.

The venue is a great place for both beginners and advanced drivers to gain experience and learn from professionals in the racing community.

Visitor Information

Season and Hours of Operation:

Edmonton International Raceway is typically open for racing events from May to September, with the busiest period being during the summer months. Races usually take place on weekends, particularly Saturday nights, although schedules can vary depending on the type of event.

For detailed schedules, visitors can check the official website or follow EIR's social media accounts to stay updated on events and timings.

Admission:

Admission prices vary depending on the event, with general ticket prices ranging from $10 to $30. Special events, such as championship races or car festivals, may have higher ticket prices.

Family passes, VIP tickets, and pit passes are sometimes available for certain events, providing access to special areas or behind-the-scenes access.

Parking:

There is ample parking available at the venue, and parking is generally free for visitors attending the races. Depending on the event, designated parking areas might be set up to handle large crowds.

Accessibility:

EIR is generally accessible to visitors with mobility issues, with some areas providing seating and views for those with disabilities. However, due to the nature of the racing environment, some areas may require additional assistance. It's advisable to contact the raceway in advance if you have specific accessibility needs.

Food and Drink:

There are food vendors and a concession stand offering typical racetrack fare, including hot dogs, burgers, fries, and drinks. Guests can also bring their own food and enjoy a picnic-style experience in certain designated areas.

Conclusion

The Edmonton International Raceway provides an exciting and action-packed experience for motorsport enthusiasts, families, and anyone who enjoys high-speed racing. Whether you're watching stock car races, drag racing, or participating in club racing events, EIR offers something for everyone. Its combination of thrilling races, family-friendly atmosphere, and community involvement makes it an important part of Alberta's motorsports culture. If you're a racing fan or just looking for a unique and exciting outing, EIR is definitely worth checking out.