The city of Markham is gearing up for a weekend of high-octane action as it hosts the NTT IndyCar Series, along with other motorsports events, for the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy. While IndyCar has a history of racing in Toronto, this will mark the first time the event takes place outside the city, featuring a brand-new track layout.
The 3.52-kilometre, 12-turn circuit will wind its way through various locations, including the Unionville GO station grounds, York University Markham Campus, and the Markham Pan Am Centre. To help attendees reach the track, organizers recommend utilizing GO Transit, York Region Transit, or driving via Highway 407, with parking available west of the event site.
Metrolinx is enhancing Stouffville Line services to accommodate racegoers, offering additional trips from Union Station to Unionville GO station in the mornings and afternoons on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Moreover, York Region Transit will boost its service frequency, and shuttle services will run between designated parking lots and the event venue in Markham.
Residents have endured temporary inconveniences due to track construction, but the end is in sight. Various roads around Markham Centre, including parts of Enterprise Boulevard, Kennedy Road, YMCA Boulevard, University Boulevard, and South Unionville Boulevard, will remain closed until Monday at 6 a.m., with some closures extending until August 27 for track dismantling.
In terms of the racing action, all eyes will be on the IndyCar event on Sunday, with the race set to commence at 12:22 p.m. ET. Alex Palou, the current points leader and a seasoned champion, is the frontrunner for victory. Additionally, drivers like Pato O’Ward, Kyle Kirkwood, David Malukas, Christian Lundgaard, and Rinus Veekay are expected to put on a competitive show.
Local talents like Anthony Martella and Chase Pelletier will also showcase their skills in supporting races, including the USF2000 and Radical Cup Canada categories. The NASCAR Canada Series will make its debut in Markham, featuring notable competitors like Alex Tagliani, Sam Fellows, Marc-Antoine Camirand, and Jared Odrick.
Drivers have expressed excitement and curiosity about the new track layout in Markham, highlighting its smooth surface and challenging features. Tickets for the weekend races can be purchased online, with Friday’s practice and qualifying sessions open to the public for free during Fan Friday, where donations to Make-A-Wish Canada are encouraged.