Construction of South Okanagan private racetrack set to begin next week

PENTICTON – Plans to construct a five-kilometre motorsport race track in the South Okanagan received a green flag earlier this week.

South Okanagan Motorsports Corporation announced the signing of a 99-year lease with the Osoyoos Indian Band to secure 227 acres of band land in order to construct a members-only F1A (Federation Internationale de l’Automobile) race track near Oliver.

The corporation expects to begin construction of the track, known as 'Area 27' on Nov. 1. The private track was designed by Canadian motorsport legend Jacques Villeneuve and is being funded through private investment and memberships.

Area 27 is open to drivers of all skill levels.

“It’s like booking a tee time at the golf club. Instead of golfing, members learn how to safely push their limits and be better drivers,” says Bill Drossos, Area 27 President and co-founder. Drossos says the project stages include the construction of the first five kilometre road circuit west of Ontario, a clubhouse, industry related businesses and luxury accommodation on site.

Co-founder Trevor Siebert, who is also a professional motorsport driver, will head the project’s construction through his company Lake Excavating. The track is expected to be available to members for use by late spring 2016.

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