OpenRoad Driver Volume 11 Issue 1 | Page 93

Volume 11 Issue 1 » 93 » We asked Bill Drossos and Jacques Villeneuve to provide more details about their plans for Area 27. What is the inspiration behind the name Area 27? BD • The name alludes to Area 51, a secret aircraft test facility in the Nevada desert. We like to say we are a secret automotive test facility in the Okanagan desert. The 27 comes from the number used on Jacques’ 1995 Indianapolis 500 winning race car and was also the number made famous by his father driving for Ferrari in Formula 1. When people talk about the performance capabilities of the modern sports car, there is always someone who has to say, “Where can you use a car like that?” so Area 27 is the answer to that question. Will there be a possibility for Area 27 to bring larger international motorsports competitions to BC in the future? JV • When Bill first approached me I stated that I wanted to design a track that could be capable of holding organized racing events. One of the most challenging aspects when it comes to designing a circuit is to design one that is exciting for Jacques Villeneuve and Christian Chia its one-lap experience and promotes good racing and overtaking opportunities. What inspired you to get involved in this project in BC? JV • I have known Bill since my first days in motorsport and I spent my summer vacation time in the Okanagan back when I was racing Formula 3. I really enjoyed the summers in that region. I have always wanted to design a great race track, and the spectacular Area 27 site will allow me to do just that. Why build the track in BC? BD • Western Canada is full of sports car enthusiasts who are looking for a place to safely enjoy their vehicles. The Okanagan is quickly becoming the premier destination area in Canada with a climate that is ideally suited for a destination motorsports resort. Many people from Alberta and the Lower Mainland already own vacation properties in the Okanagan Valley because of the huge variety of recreational opportunities. What type of people do you expect to join Area 27? BD • Area 27 Members share one common bond, that is, they all like to drive their vehicles and find their limits. They are the kids that played with their toys. What we are seeing is that there is no age limit or specific demographic, but instead a common desire. Will Area 27 be accessible to the general public and car clubs? JV • Area 27 is in itself a type of car club for enthusiasts who want more than the average track-day experience. Members of the public can book a course at the Driving Academy to improve their driving skills and provide people with an opportunity to sample what Area 27 has to offer. The Area 27 Karting Centre will be open to the public to provide an entry-level motorsports experience.