In 2016, Daryl Crocker stepped into the role of General Manager at Western Speedway, quickly making his mark on the organization. He revamped the Speedway’s schedule, forged new business partnerships and strengthened car counts across all classes. That inaugural season featured exciting new events including the Opening Night of Mayhem, a three-day Monster Truck weekend with a Sunday matinee for children and the debut of the annual Crazy Train Stunt Productions car jump season finale. To support these developments, billboard advertising space was expanded and the Claimer class was reintroduced as a North American-made four cylinder option which provided an affordable entry point for new racers.
Daryl’s leadership fostered a noticeably-positive racing community, creating a welcoming environment where everyone felt at home. This sense of belonging resonated deeply, laying the foundation for lifelong relationships among racer, families and friends. In subsequent years, Daryl continued to enhance the Speedway’s offerings. He further expanded billboard space and strengthened business relationships while also making substantial improvements to the facility. In 2018 he introduced “Hangover Breakfasts” for race teams during two-day events which fostered camaraderie among participants. The 2019 season season brought significant enhancements to the track’s infield which included new concrete pads throughout the pit area as well as the exciting debut of a racecar parade through the streets of Langford.
The 2020 season was marked by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic leading to the Reg Midgley Canada 200 becoming the only event of the year. Despite these difficulties, the race gained national attention through it’s broadcast on CHEK-TV. The popularity of this coverage continued to grow in the following years. With 2021 came further challenges including a shortened season due to the ongoing pandemic coupled with the heartbreaking announcement that the property Western Speedway occupied would be sold to a developer, signalling the end of an era for the beloved venue. In response, Daryl took action by forming a non-profit organization, VISSA (Vancouver Island Safe Sport Association), dedicated to finding a new location for Langford’s cherished speedway. Following it’s closure, he organized the dismantling and storage of the grandstands, ensuring they could be reassembled at a future site.
Darryl remained actively involved in the racing community managing the Late Model class and providing trackside parts and tire sales to support racers at Saratoga Motorsports Park. His dedication and leadership have left a lasting impact on the Speedway and it’s community nurturing a spirit of connection that will endure for years to come.
