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.