The starting light, or the “Christmas Tree” is the main thing standing between a racer and their victory. Dean Holder, of Newport, WA and Shana Cachola, of Oliver, BC line their cars up to see who’s got what it takes.  Photo by Laurena Rehbein

When most people hear about Christmas trees it conjures up images of snow, excited children and Santa Claus. To your friendly, neighbourhood drag racer, however, it means that spring is here and it’s time to burn rubber. The drag racer’s best friend and biggest enemy is the starting light, lovingly known as the Christmas tree. Races are won and lost in the tiny amount of time that it takes a driver to put the pedal to the floor.

As the rest of the world rests, covered in a blanket of snow the racing teams are busy in their shops tuning old cars or furiously getting new cars ready to hit the track. When our Okanagan Valley fruit trees display their blossoms the volunteers of Wine Country Racing Association (WCRA) are dusting off the equipment to put on a show, including the infamous Christmas tree.

Sunday May 5 is opening day for the WCRA 2013 season. Fans, young and old have five chances to come to the Osoyoos airport – west of town on Highway 3 – to watch side by side racing.  Richter Pass Motorplex offers a fun, safe environment for racers of all backgrounds and experience levels to get the adrenaline rush of driving competitively.

Gates open at 9 a.m. on race day. Time trials begin around 11 a.m. Final elimination round begins at 1 p.m. Drivers come early to register and to get your vehicle through technical inspection.

Cost at the gate is $10 per person over age 12. Those under 12 are admitted at no charge, but must be accompanied by an adult. Drivers race for only another $25. Concessions are offered on site.  There is plenty of room to set up your lawn chair, or find spot in the grand stands.

Go to the website www.winecountryracing.ca or call 250-498-6443 for more information and check out the photos.

2013 race dates: May 5, May 26, June 9, September 22 and October 13.

Thanks Shana Cachola