History will show the sport of drag racing was alive and well in the Winnipeg area
during the decades of the 60's and 70's. Beginning with the efforts of Don and Glen Remple
in 1964 with the name of Keystone Dragways, and continuing in 1971 under the guidance of
Bill Balicky and a name change to Bison Dragways, the dragstrip was well received by a
great manyracers and enthusiastic spectators. Until it's demise in 1977, a victim of progress in the form of a major Canadian pipeline
running directly through the property, serious racer types and casual participants alike made 1000's
of runs down it's 1320 feet of asphalt. While amenities were minimal, booked in shows and local rivalries
kept people coming through the gates for more.And more they got.
Always a NHRA sanctioned track, Keystone / Bison Dragways hosted several official Division 5
events which brought a high caliber of cars to an appreciative crowd.
By today's standards the dragstrip lacked in several areas,
not the least of which being guardrails of any description. One has to remind themselves, however,
that it was also a different era. And, even considering it's shortcomings, it had a style and
a charm all it's own. Keystone / Bison Dragways was down home friendly, laid back and perhaps more importantly
... it was ours.
look, Ma... we're famous
the editors of Rod & Custom magazine surprised us with a kind mention in their June 2005 issue
thanks, R&C... much appreciated
the shirt was in the picture long before the website
honest
comments, corrections, or photo contributions and info may be directed here
red67@mts.net
and yes... there really was a reunion
The following pages are not designed to display photographic excellence.
Rather, they are merely intended to conjure up the memories of those who were there, and to enlighten those who were not.
On these pages you will find both professional and amateur photographs taken from archives, personal scrapbooks and newspaper clippings.
Every effort has been made to credit the original photographer.
IMPORTANT NOTE
this website is very much a work in progress and is constantly being updated
frequent visitors should reload / refresh their browser on ALL pages
to ensure they are viewing the latest edition
* updated Monday, January 28, 2008 *
Also, please note, we acknowledge possible errors in the captioning of photographs
Any misinformation is purely unintentional
The radio ads screamed29 MILES EAST OF WINNIPEG ... BE THERE !
and a great many of us were.
