Sizzling 2019 expected for JRDC Circuit ‘Wheels on Fire’

One of the biggest racing events to take place annually on local soil happens today at Jamwest Motorsports and Adventure Park in Negril, Westmoreland, and from our estimation, all systems are go for a sizzling 2019.

Speaking with Automotives, Director at Jamwest Shiyann Gordon promised a day of fun, frolic and good, old circuit racing. Jamwest Speedway is the largest and fastest circuit racing track in the Caribbean, and Gordon mentions extra investments for this event, which is the Jamaica Race Drivers Club’s (JRDC) second race meet of the year.

“A lot of investments have been put out in terms of race cars, and you will see some new cars on the track this time around,” she said. “All the big names will be present such as Doug Gore, Kyle Gregg, and Alan Gordon.”

New for 2019

An annual event, the name Wheels on Fire is a new one but encompasses what can be expected from the day. Last year, the one-day fanfare was dubbed The Caribbean Motor Racing Championship, but Gordon tells Automotives that there is good reason for the name change.

“It is usually a Caribbean event, where we bring in cars from overseas,” she said. “However, this year, we will only have local vehicles, but we will have international drivers.”

She also mentioned a lot of buzz in the motorcycle competition. “I’m hearing of up to 40 entrants for the motorcycle classes,” Gordon shared. “A lot of persons who don’t race throughout the year will be there because it is a rare occasion.”

An adventure awaits

The evolution of Jamwest Speedway into a full-service Adventure Park is a plus for non-auto enthusiasts who are looking for a day of family fun.

“It (Wheels on Fire) is a very good event for families because the adventure park offers tours such as zip lining, ATV tours, a Jeep safari, horseback riding, pool and a water slide, and a clubhouse area that’s comfortably equipped with a gift shop, restaurant, and bar,” Gordon said.

To make the event even sweeter, Jamwest is rolling out special rates for these attractions and ‘very low rates for tours.’ Today, the Safaree tour will cost $2,500, the zipline adventure will cost $5,000, and the ATV will cost $8,000.

Handy, too, is the fact that partners, Knutsford Express, are on board to drive Kingston patrons to and from the venue for a $4,000 cost. Mandeville patrons pay $3,000. “If you don’t want to drive, leave your car and Knutsford will handle all that stress for you,” Gordon stressed.

General admission $2,000 for adults and $1,000 for children.There is also a $3,000 admission for those patrons who would like to get closer to the cars and $5,000 for VIP access. Food and refreshment will be on sale. Gates open as early as 9 a.m. and are scheduled to close at 4 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase at the gate. Call 957-4474 to find out more.