Local fifth grader to race at Stateline Speedway

POST FALLS — It’s ready, set and go, for Caelem Stewart, a Valley View Elementary fifth grader, will be racing Saturday night at Stateline Speedway.

He also will be visiting with Restorium residents and the community at a Sunday lunch event. The youth and his parents will be on hand from 11:30 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Kicking off his third season in the Bandolero class on the Speedway, the 11-year-old said he is looking  forward to it being an amazing year of racing as Findlay Stadium celebrates 50 years of racing. 

On Sunday, Stewartwill be at the Community Restorium with his race car and his parents, Alison Stewart, Bonners Ferry, and Jeremy Stewart, Spokane, to visit with race fans, talk about his goals for the season, answer questions and autograph race memorabilia for residents and visitors alike.

But his first priority will be to continue to improve and bring home more trophies. The Bando Class is the youngest class of racers in the Pacific Northwest, open to drivers aged 8 to 14. The cars are built like the stock cars in the main events, but are smaller, slower in acceleration and limited by required restrictor plates during races to hold the cars, capable of mile-a-minute speeds, down to about 40 mph. 

Stewart said he would love to see a Bonners Ferry contingent at the raceway to cheer him on, and this Saturday is Kids Night, with free admission for all kids age 17 and under and bike giveaways during the main events. 

Gates open at 5 p.m. and Royalty the Band will be playing at the main entrance. For tickets and more information, go online to raceidaho.com/schedules/event/489594.