Kalamazoo Speedway Cancels Opening Weekend at the Last Minute

Track officials have followed recommended protocols, but were informed less than 24 hours before the green flag that fans were not permitted in the stands.

The red flag is out, and fans are even more upset than track officials. Kalamazoo Speedway shared the news on their Facebook page and at KalamazooSpeedway.com on Thursday, July 2.

About 24 hours before we were to welcome fans and drivers to the Season Opener on Friday, July 3, Kalamazoo Speedway was advised that it fell under Executive Order 133. While this order was promoted as enabling the resumption of professional sports, the Executive Order represents a step backwards for Kalamazoo Speedway.

Here's why: "Previous Executive Orders permitted us to have spectators in the stands and the skyboxes. Executive Order 133 prohibits all live audiences." The live audience for weekend racing looked to be a big one as the track had sold out the grandstands and skyboxes for races on July 3 and 5 with fireworks both nights to celebrate Independence Day. Information regarding refunds for those who have purchased tickets will be published on Monday.

The Facebook comments section was mostly directed toward Governor Whitmer and not much, if any, was positive. Some had some pretty good questions:

What about the Growlers baseball team who just played a game last night with fans?
How is every other track racing with fans? Galesburg, Springport, Gingerman, Martin, the list goes on and on.
I hope she shut down the beaches because if we can't go to a race with 500 people I can guarantee you there's going to be more people than that closer together at the beach
If you have a peaceful protest and accidentally a race breaks out im sure it will be OK