April 13, 2012

(West Salem, WI) Officials at LaCrosse Fairgrounds Speedway today ejected an unexpected visitor from the grandstands. This visitor was not angry or upset about anything that happened on the race track today. The visitor was interested in what was going on though.

Race teams in preparation for the 2012 season opener on April 28th were testing their race cars when they noticed a large black object galloping through the grandstands. That object was a black bear. The bear, named “Speedy” took a tour through the grandstands, but not before stopping at the concession stands. Disappointedly, the bear was unable to get a hot dog and continued on to the hospitality area.

Speedway’s recently appointed wildlife groundskeeper Ray Loughan commented, “I don’t believe it. This is a first-time event at this track for me and I’ve been here for 30 plus years.” Loughan, with the help of the DNR and local residents, was able to safely escort the bear to the gate where it appeared to pick up a 2012 schedule of events on its way out. Will it be back for opening night on April 28th? “I doubt it, but at this race track, you just never know what may happen,” concluded Loughan.

Some video was captured of the event and it will be available at the Speedway’s Youtube Channel. Be sure to “Like” LaCrosse Speedway on Facebook to view additional images.

The 2012 NASCAR Whelen All-American racing season gets underway on Saturday, April 28th as Budweiser presents the Late Models, Sportsmen, Thunderstox and Outlawz. Grandstands open at 6:00 and the first green flag waves at 7:30.

For more information about the LaCrosse Fairgrounds Speedway and the 2012 event schedule, please contact the office at 608-786-1525 or visitwww.lacrossespeedway.com. LaCrosse Speedway is a proud NASCAR Hometrack, a part of the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series.