CHICO, CA (8-19-08) - After 18 years of hosting the Racer's Barbeque John Perry (JP) is taking a year off. The Racer's Barbeque was an annual tradition on the Friday afternoon of Gold Cup. Many of the race fans and teams ended up at JP's Paint and Body Works for the great food, beautiful cars and immense atmosphere. "It was just time for me to take a year off and relax during the Gold Cup," said JP from his office. "It takes a lot of hard work to make the barbeque a success. But on the same hand it doesn't allow me the freedom to mingle in the pit area after the races on Wednesday or Thursday. I think this year I'm going to do a little mingling."

This is not a permanent situation. JP assured us that he would be back stronger than ever in 2010. He will once again host the Knoxville Bound Benefit that sends a person with a terminal illness to an Outlaw event. JP will also renew the Racer's Barbeque in 2010 during the Gold Cup. Even though both events will be sorely missed we can look forward to them coming back in 2010.

John Perry has been an amazing friend to the local racer's and Silver Dollar Speedway. His shop is located at 1840 Park Ave in Chico, roughly one-mile from the fairgrounds. If you need to contact JP give him a call at 530-342-1328.