Stockton 99 Speedway lost its fireworks supply to a warehouse explosion in Esparto. But the show on the track goes on.
The speedway announced that the fireworks display planned for today’s annual Ron Strmiska Firecracker event has been canceled. The racing program will proceed as scheduled, featuring Stockton late models, nor Cal mini stocks, legends of 99 and more. Pit gates open at 3 p.m., admission opens at 5 p.m. and racing begins at 7 p.m.
According to the update, explored every possible alternative. Due to short notice, it was impossible to replace the pyrotechnics.
This is the second bump in the road for Stockton 99 Speedway’s show. In a violent break-in last week, the business lost thousands of dollars worth of equipment. They planned to proceed with the unmodified event, that is, until the fireworks were lost.
“We’ve taken quite a few hits this week,” speedway track official Noceti said. “Luckily, the way that we’re keeping up morale is that the community has rallied with us.”
The explosion is confirmed to have happened at Devastating Pyrotechnics, a licensed pyrotechnics business that, according to Noceti, the speedway has worked with for many years.
“The owner and his team are absolutely amazing,” Noceti said, referring to Devastating Pyrotechnics. “Unfortunately, this is just a one-off situation.”
Devastating Pyrotechnics posted a statement on their website saying their “hearts and thoughts” are with those impacted, and they plan to fully cooperate with authorities. Seven people are still missing following the incident.
Stockton 99 Speedway isn’t the only venue impacted.
Lodi Lake’s fireworks show was also canceled as a result of the explosions. Additionally, the Yuba-Sutter show in Marysville is proceeding with a new fireworks provider and has been rescheduled to July 5.
Noceti said the racetrack is grateful for the support of community members, sponsors and vendors. Other racetracks have even offered assistance.
The racing program will proceed as scheduled, featuring Stockton late models, nor Cal mini stocks, legends of 99 and more. Pit gates open at 3 p.m., admission opens at 5 p.m. and racing begins at 7 p.m.
