Shannonville Motorsport Park has carved out a very significant place in Canadian motorsport history. Known as ‘The Birthplace of Champions,’ this facility has built a solid reputation as a premier motorsport racing and development venue.
To mark the track’s 50th anniversary, award-winning automotive and motorsport journalist Stephanie Wallcraft has authored a new publication titled The First Fifty Years – Shannonville Motorsport Park.
This 80-page softcover book chronicles the facility’s evolution from its inception in 1974 through various ownerships and advancements. Rather than focusing heavily on race results, Wallcraft’s work delves into the broader history and impact of the track.
“That was the goal from the beginning,” Wallcraft explains. “Current co-owners John and Dominique Bondar wanted a book that told the story of the people behind Shannonville, highlighting their contributions rather than just listing results.”
Wallcraft’s extensive research involved scouring track archives, news outlets, and conducting in-depth interviews. She drew on the oral history provided by Steve Nelson, son of SMP founder John Nelson, and gathered memories from track alumni to enrich the narrative.
“I spoke with Jacques Villeneuve about his time at the Spenard-David Racing School, as well as Richard Spenard, Scott Goodyear, Colin Hine, and Michel Mercier, all of whom have been involved in training up-and-coming car and motorcycle racers at Shannonville,” said Wallcraft. “Their stories weave together into a fascinating history.”
The book is organized into five informative chapters and features 114 photographs (28 in black and white, 86 in color) that vividly illustrate the track’s development and the evolution of its competitions.
Initially designed as a motorcycle racing circuit, the venue near Belleville, ON, has expanded from a six-turn, 1.8-kilometer track to a multi-configuration circuit with 14 turns and a length of 4.03 kilometers. Over the years, SMP has hosted a range of events, from professional and amateur motorcycle races to various open-wheel and sedan series, and has become a hub for Southern Ontario’s lapping, drifting, and drag racing communities. It is also renowned as an excellent training ground for emerging drivers.
With endorsements from notable racers such as Richard Spenard, Colin Fraser, and Michel Mercier, The First Fifty Years – Shannonville Motorsport Park highlights the significant role Shannonville Motorsport Park has played in Canadian motorsports, both as a venue for competition and a training ground.
Written with clarity and rich in detail, this publication is a valuable addition to any Canadian motorsport fan’s collection. It is available for purchase at the track or through the SMP website, www.shannonville.com.
