BRADFORD, Vt. – Bear Ridge Speedway officials have made the decision to postpone the start of the track’s 53rd season due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The events scheduled for May 3 and May 9 at the quarter-mile clay oval have been canceled as a result.

F.M.S. NAPA of Bradford will now sponsor the track’s 4th of July Extravaganza night, which this year will also include the first DIRTcar Eastern Series Sportsman Modified event. That race was rescheduled from May 9. In addition, DIRTcar Sabil and Sons Sportsman Modifieds Madness night has been moved to July 18.

“The State of Vermont’s stay at home executive order currently runs thru May 15. We will, as is everyone, continue to monitor the progress of opening our businesses back up, and will keep everyone updated on actual opening night as time progresses,” track officials said in an emailed statement. “Knowing that the new norm will be different, the track management continues while practicing social distancing to get the track ready for racing, this also now includes making sure all of concessions and contact areas are equipped with safety measures to help keep everyone safe.”

As it stands now, the track will open its 53rd season of competition on May 16.

“We at Bear Ridge Speedway hope and pray that everyone is staying healthy and safe,” track officials said. “Please know we are monitoring the guidance from state and health officials, and are trying to act accordingly in the best interest of our competitors, employees, and of course all of you the fans.”