The debut of the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham encountered a setback during the initial stages. Due to incomplete track construction, the first day of practice and qualifying for Canada’s only IndyCar event had to be called off on Friday. As a result, all the sessions planned for the first day will be compressed into Saturday’s schedule.
This marks the first year that Markham is hosting the event, following its relocation from Toronto’s Exhibition Place, the venue for the race since its inception in 1986. J. Douglas Boles, president of IndyCar, expressed disappointment over the delay in track completion, despite extensive assistance provided by the on-site team. Boles emphasized the importance of Ontario as a key market for the sport, acknowledging the enthusiastic turnout of spectators on the canceled day.
Mark Coburn from Kitchener and Scott Stobo from Waterloo, regular attendees of the race for two decades, made their way to Markham on Friday morning. Coburn shared mixed feelings about the delay, recognizing the priority of ensuring track safety while also highlighting the disappointment of missing out on the anticipated track action that attracts both loyal and new fans.
The decision to shift the event from Toronto to Markham was announced by IndyCar and the City of Markham in September last year. The newly constructed circuit, situated between Kennedy Road, Enterprise Boulevard, Unionville GO tracks, and Highway 407, faced challenges in completion, including unfinished features like a pedestrian bridge and safety fencing modifications.
The Ontario government’s investment of $1.5 million and the federal government’s contribution of $3.5 million underscored the significant financial support for the event. Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti revealed substantial capital spending exceeding $12 million by the city for race-related infrastructure enhancements.
While Friday offered free admission to the IndyCar race, with donations encouraged for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the event attracted a sizable crowd despite the lack of shade and seating options compared to the previous venue. Off-track activities proceeded as planned, including autograph sessions with drivers.
Saturday’s schedule promises an action-packed day with IndyCar conducting practice sessions and qualifying rounds. Boles expressed confidence in the circuit’s potential to deliver an exhilarating race experience and extended appreciation to the city of Markham for its support in creating a challenging and visually appealing track layout.
In addition to IndyCar, the USF2000 Championship, USF Pro 2000, Radical Cup Canada, and NASCAR Canada Series will feature races around the road course over the weekend. Amidst the excitement, attendees like Stobo acknowledged the unique experience but hinted at potential reluctance to return for future events.