Markham is gearing up for an exciting weekend as it hosts the NTT IndyCar Series, along with other motorsports events, for the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy. This marks the first time the race will be held outside of Toronto, featuring a brand-new track layout spanning 3.52 kilometers with 12 turns.
Spectators attending the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy are advised to utilize GO Transit, York Region Transit, or drive to the event via Highway 407. Parking will be available to the west of the event grounds, with Metrolinx enhancing service on the Stouffville Line for easy access to the track.
The event will see the addition of extra trips to and from Unionville GO station, as well as increased York Region Transit service and shuttle services provided by Markham between designated parking areas and the event venue.
Residents of Markham have been impacted by track preparations, including road closures on parts of Enterprise Boulevard, Kennedy Road, YMCA Boulevard, University Boulevard, and South Unionville Boulevard until Monday morning, with some roads affected until August 27 for track dismantling.
The main event on Sunday features IndyCar racing with the current points leader, Alex Palou, expected to perform well. Alongside Palou, drivers like Pato O’Ward, Kyle Kirkwood, David Malukas, Christian Lundgaard, and Rinus Veekay are also contenders to watch. Local talent includes Vaughan’s Anthony Martella in the USF2000 category and Toronto’s Chase Pelletier in Radical Cup Canada.
Drivers have expressed excitement and challenges about the new Markham track layout, with its smooth surface and unique features. Tickets for the weekend events are available for purchase on the event’s website, with Friday’s practice and qualifying sessions open to the public for free as part of Fan Friday. Visitors are encouraged to donate to Make-A-Wish Canada upon entry.