A long standing event at the Oakdale Mall in Johnson City will have a new look, new mission, and new organizer this year.
The annual motorsports show, formerly called Southern Tier Speedworld, has become the Racers For Charity Motorsports Expo, with the mission of raising money for local charities while showcasing the race tracks, race teams, and supporting sponsors that compete in Broome and surrounding counties.
The new organizer is Johnson City native Ron Hills, who begins his 40th season as Producer and Host of the popular television program, The Race Report, aired locally on WICZ Fox 40.
"The new name of the event is Racers For Charity" said Hills, "a name which defines the goal of the event… giving back to the communities who have supported our racing efforts for decades."
Several eligible charities will be announced at the start of the show weekend, and people attending the show will vote their choice of which charities will receive the most money. Money will be distributed proportionate to the votes cast.
Hills continued, "With the help of the community, we can return this event to the huge attendance it once enjoyed, with thousands of people from throughout the surrounding counties traveling to Johnson City for a preview of the upcoming racing season. This event has been a staple in the pre-season racing schedule, filling restaurants, hotel rooms, and retailers since the 1980’s."
Several television stations have committed to cover this event. A live broadcast is scheduled for Saturday with the WHWK The Hawk and Glenn Pitcher, who is a former announcer at area race tracks. Other radio stations have voiced their support, and there will be live Internet television broadcasts taking place on all 3 days, plus post event coverage throughout the season on The Race Report.
"We have a world reknown guest who will be attending the event on Friday, March 6th. But that's a secret for another day. More details will be announced later this week," added Hills. "This opportunity came about on VERY short notice, and I want to thank the many people and businesses that have stepped up to support this event."
