Update:

Riley Raynard has announced that he is no longer attending the Super Nationals race in Iowa due to logistical issues. He will however, return to Motor Magic this weekend in Minot. He is also planning trips to Kansas, Swift Current and Williston in the future. 

 

A local star among the Hobby Stocks at the Estevan Motor Speedway is taking a step up in his division and heading for the largest race available in the International Motor Contest Association, the IMCA Super Nationals.

Held in Boone, Iowa every year, it features over 900 cars in 5 different classes, and Lampman native Riley Raynard will put his driving skills to the test against drivers from across North America. While there is no specific standard to qualify, it isn't a decision to make lightly, as it's a long way from southeast Saskatchewan.

"It's 14 hours from here, so it's quite the drive," stated Raynard.

The real show begins on September 4th, and will continue until the 9th. 

"For our class, we only race Monday and Tuesday, then it depends on how many points you have racked up. For the main show, there's 30 cars that start, and you have to try to get into that. You have to qualify for Monday or Tuesday night, and then get within the top four there to get into the main one," he explained.

As for the competition, the young driver pointed out that they are world class.

"That's where all the best drivers go. I won one B main there last year, so it's a lot about how you draw, as all of those guys are really fast. You have to try and draw a front position to have a better chance of making it."

Having competed in the event in 2015, Raynard is looking forward to returning.

"I'm pretty excited. It should be a good one again."

Although he didn't nab the top of the list in the points department on the track at home, finishing in fourth in the standings, he seems happy about his season.

"I picked up two wins here, and on the Tougher Than Dirt tour I ended up fourth for points I think."

For Raynard personally, the tight competition and the excitement of racing is what makes driving in the Hobby Stocks fun.