The roar of engines and cheers of spectators marked the official grand reopening of the Gimli Motorsport Park’s (GMP) newly resurfaced road race track on Saturday, June 7.
The Winnipeg Sports Car Club (WSCC), in partnership with the RM of Gimli and the Gimli Community Development Corporation, hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony at noon to commemorate the improvements to the storied circuit.
Mayor Kevin Chudd and WSCC president Murray Burkett presided over the event, delivering remarks about the track’s history and its importance to motorsport in Manitoba.
Chudd highlighted the strategic partnership between the municipality and the WSCC, calling it a shining example of collaboration and long-term vision.
“Motorsport plays a unique and important role in our community,” he said. “Gimli Motorsport Park is not only a historic venue—it’s a regional attraction that brings people together, builds community pride, and helps define Gimli as a destination.”
The mayor applauded the strong turnout at the event, calling it a testament to shared enthusiasm and the lasting impact of recreational investment.
“The improved track enhances Gimli’s appeal as a host for regional and national motorsport events, increasing visitor traffic, supporting local businesses, and creating opportunities for hospitality, retail, and service sectors,” Chudd added.
The RM of Gimli supported the WSCC’s $250,000 resurfacing project with a prorated 10-year usage guarantee valued up to $150,000—an arrangement designed to provide stability for the club while safeguarding public interest.
“Projects like this thrive on mutual trust, shared goals and strategic planning,” said Chudd. “The RM’s support reflects a broader commitment to working with community partners to enhance local amenities and drive sustainable development.”
Following the ceremony, open- and closed-wheel race cars lined the start grid, and attendees had the opportunity to ride along with drivers for high-speed laps around the freshly paved course.
The resurfacing project marks a significant step in the long-term vision to further enhance the facility, which has hosted amateur and professional drivers for decades.
The track, built on the site of a former air force base, is steeped in Canadian motorsport history and remains a popular venue for racers and fans alike.
Upcoming 2025 WSCC Events at Gimli Motorsport Park:
July 18–20 – GMP Event #2
• Friday: HPDE, Open Lapping, Test ‘n’ Tune
• Sat/Sun: Time Attack Competition & Road Racing (Sedan & Open Wheel)
• Sat/Sun: Skid Pad Drift Days
• Saturday Evening: Road Course Drift
Aug. 15–17 – GMP Event #3: WSCC CAN-AM Vintage Invitational
• Friday: HPDE, Open Lapping, Test ‘n’ Tune
• Sat/Sun: Time Attack Competition & Road Racing (Sedan, Vintage & Open Wheel)
• Saturday: Vintage Car Show
• Saturday Evening: Dinner Banquet
• Sat/Sun: Skid Pad Drift Days
Sept. 19–21 – GMP Event #4
• Friday: HPDE, Open Lapping, Test ‘n’ Tune
• Sat/Sun: Time Attack Competition & Road Racing (Sedan & Open Wheel)
• Saturday: WSCC Potluck Dinner
• Sat/Sun: Skid Pad Drift Days
• Saturday Evening: Road Course Drift
Oct. 10–12 – GMP Event #5: Time Attack & Open Lapping Weekend
• Friday: HPDE, Open Lapping, Test ‘n’ Tune
• Sat/Sun: Time Attack Competition
• Sat/Sun: Open Lapping
• Sat/Sun: Skid Pad Drift Days
• Saturday Evening: Road Course Drift
