"Gramma" will be back on the track this weekend as the Race for the House event in support of Ronald McDonald House B.C. takes place at Mission Raceway Park.
Ladner senior Gayle Baird, who is known in racing circles as "Gramma," will be on the track nine times with three practice rounds, three qualifying rounds and three races. She will be racing two cars this weekend: her #118 open wheel Formula Vee and the #62 Sedan class Honda Civic.
Baird started racing when she retired at 62, although none of her friends and family believed she would actually stick with it. She's now been racing for six years.
"Have a good time while you can because it'll be over before you know it." Baird says. "I had a heart attack when I was 65... The most aggravating part of the whole thing is I missed two racing weekends."
When asked why she got into racing, Baird says, "I can't knit, that's what grammas do."
She says she's won some trophies and had a lot of fun.
Baird, who refers to herself as an old Ladner girl, will attend her 50th high school reunion at the end of July at the Harris Barn.
In addition to the races, Race for the House will include a display of vintage vehicles, a chance to meet the drivers and experience two laps in a high performance car, 50/50 draws and other family-oriented activities.
Proceeds will help seriously ill children and their families. Tickets will be sold at the gate for $10 per person or $25 per group of four or more.
