New Massachusetts track plans busy second season

Photo courtesy Palmer Motorsport Park.

Traditionally, the town of Palmer in central Massachusetts has been associated with large-scale powered transportation; it calls itself "One town, seven railroads." The definition of powering through Palmer is bound to change, however. A new track-day locale, Palmer Motorsports Park, completed its initial season of action recently, and is primed for both driving schools and racing events in 2016.

At its centerpoint is the dramatic Whiskey Hill Raceway, whittled from mountain granite, which stretches to 2.3 miles per lap with 15 corners. That presents a challenge in its own right. What makes it even more enticing to a serious driver or motorcyclist is that the track boasts more than 18 stories of elevation change, every lap. So you better be on your game if you take on this place. Palmer Motorsport Park opened for business in May, and hosted a variety of track days during its initial season. There's more coming.

It's the first such rental track to be constructed in Massachusetts. "We're thrilled with the reviews we've been getting from the car clubs that christened the track, and it seems that word is spreading quickly," said the facility's owner, Fred Ferguson. The track is open to public visitors, as each race or driving club determines whether its event is going to be open to the public. Private or member events are restricted to Palmer Motorsport Park club members and their guests. The track is supported by driving and enthusiast clubs ranging from New England to Pennsylvania and the Washington, D.C., area, including the Porsche Club of America, One Lap of America and the BMW Car Club of America. It's also available for high school driver training, product testing and use by emergency services.

Expansion plans are already underway. The operators anticipate building the facility's first paddock/garage building in the spring, and later proposals call for additional construction, including specialty housing.

Palmer Motorsport Park is located off Exit 8 of the Massachusetts Turnpike, about 70 miles due west of Boston. The track's about seven miles from the turnpike interchange. The 2016 schedule and membership information is still being formulated. To learn all about going fast on Whiskey Hill, visit PalmerMotorsportPark.com.

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