The inaugural Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham faced delays at the starting line. The first day of practice and qualifying for the only IndyCar event in Canada had to be canceled on Friday due to incomplete track construction, preventing officials from conducting final safety checks. Organizers announced plans to accommodate the missed sessions on Saturday’s schedule.
This year marked Markham’s debut as the event host, succeeding Toronto’s Exhibition Place where the race had been held since its inception in 1986. J. Douglas Boles, President of IndyCar, expressed disappointment over the delayed track build despite significant support provided by their team.
Attendees Mark Coburn and Scott Stobo, long-time race enthusiasts from Kitchener and Waterloo, respectively, shared mixed feelings about the postponement. Safety concerns were acknowledged by Coburn, emphasizing the importance of ensuring a secure track environment. Stobo expressed disappointment over the lack of on-track action, highlighting its significance in attracting fans, particularly in the local area.
The relocation of the event from downtown Toronto to Markham was announced by IndyCar and the City of Markham in September. The newly constructed circuit spans Kennedy Road, Enterprise Boulevard, the Unionville GO tracks, and Highway 407. Notable incomplete elements included a pedestrian bridge over Enterprise Boulevard and safety fencing modifications for marshals.
Financial backing for the event included investments from the Ontario and federal governments, along with significant capital spending by Markham. Spectators enjoyed free admission on Fridays, with donations encouraged for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The warm weather saw a large turnout of fans around the track, although limited shade and seating were noted compared to the previous venue.
Off-track activities proceeded as scheduled, including autograph sessions with drivers. Saturday’s schedule packed in practice sessions, qualifying, and other racing events. Boles expressed optimism about the circuit’s potential and praised Markham for its support in creating a challenging and exciting track layout.
Additional racing events such as the USF2000 Championship, USF Pro 2000, Radical Cup Canada, and NASCAR Canada Series were set to take place over the weekend. Despite the initial setbacks, Stobo indicated a reluctance to return for future events, suggesting a possible shift in attendance preferences.
