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Improvements Coming To Ventura Raceway Surface

(Oxnard, CA., Noel Dawson, 7-11-12) During the 2012 off-season, Ventura Raceway promoter Jim Naylor redesigned the fifth-mile dirt oval in an attempt to create a better racing environment for the VRA competitors. The straightaways were widened and the banking in the corners leveled out to hopefully give an opportunity for cleaner racing. The new surface material, which was provided by the Ventura County Fairgrounds, has created a smooth racing surface week in and week out. However, the percentage of clay and the rocks mixed in was not what was expected and has made watering the soil difficult.
In April, a rock screening machine provided by Darrell Pedroza of ARM Equipment Rental was brought in to help alleviate the amount the rocks. With the availability of the rock screen, attention was turned to increasing the amount of clay in the track surface.

Mike Grosswendt from All Coast Construction stepped in to offer his help in obtaining the clay. Grosswendt obtained a sample of dirt from a local source and it was tested by geologist, Jim Boles. Boles is the father of VRA Pro Dwarf Car driver Luke Boles. The results of the tests showed the new dirt contained 17% clay which is less than the current raceway surface. As a result of this, the decision was made not to add the new dirt compound to the track.

Both Grosswendt and Naylor intend to continue to find a suitable source of clay compound to improve the moisture in the racetrack. Grosswendt would like to see the new surface ready for the upcoming All Coast Challenge but was adamant it would not be rushed. “We do have some excellent leads and we are reviewing some products already. However, we are reluctant to rush into anything and have agreed to not let the All Coast Challenge present an artificial deadline to locating the right material. In other words, if we find something we are happy with before the Challenge, we will truck it in.” said Grosswendt.

Until a suitable surface can be found, Naylor is looking into alternative methods to help hold the moisture in the current surface. The track hopes to have the rock screen available to screen the entire track again during the three week break for the Ventura County Fair. Watch venturaraceway.com for further updates and any announcements concerning the track surface.

The following is a full statement from Mike Grosswendt, owner, All Coast Construction:

To Whom It May Concern:
Got dirt? Jim Naylor and myself have been actively searching for a suitable clay saturated soil to supplement the existing track at Ventura. We are interested in amounts between 500 and 1,500 tons. I regret we have been unsuccessful so far, but we are confident the right material will be sourced. We would prefer to find a local supply and minimize financial and environmental costs. We do have some excellent leads and we are reviewing some products already. However, we are reluctant to rush into anything and have agreed to not let the All Coast Challenge present an artificial deadline to locating the right material. In other words, if we find something we are happy with before the Challenge, we will truck it in. If we are still searching and researching, we will hold the Challenge under current track conditions. Although Jim and I are in agreement the track needs work, even existing conditions are suitable for outstanding racing. It would be impossible to mention the many fine people involved in this effort. However, we are primarily interested in the judgement of the drivers and car owners and will be reaching out for their input as we review the options. Together, all of our combined efforts will enhance the storied performance of Ventura Raceway. In the meantime, I am especially enthusiastic about this month's Challenge on July 21st. This is the second of our three events for the 2012 season. This is our fifth year of presenting this event. Jim and I intend to shower the drivers, crews and fans with appreciation for their support. Our goal is to have decent prize money for the top three, good money to start and a genuine sense of fun for everyone.
Michael Grosswendt
President
All Coast Construction

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