Since I started working at the Warren County Visitors Bureau over 3 years ago, I have been astonished at the many opportunities given to locals and visitors for entertainment. Even though I am a lifelong resident myself of Warren County, I learn of more things to do everyday. Winter is often a challenging time to get out and find something to do unless you enjoy outdoor recreation. I am always on the lookout for things to do in Warren County and have discovered that we have many hidden gems that aren't widely known! A few days ago, I paid a visit to Riverside Raceway, located in downtown Warren above Gaughns Drug Store and The Crossing Café.
Looking up to the very top of this block of historical building from the outside, I could see the third floor of The Crossing Café building on the corner of Hickory Street brightly lit on this Saturday night. At one time many years ago there was a dance studio located upstairs in this building. I had known that Riverside Raceway was here, but never took the opportunity to see what it was all about. I climbed two lengthy flights of stairs and when I got to the top I found quite a lot going on!
There were people of all ages in different rooms working on their RC Racecars in preparation for racing!
There were RC Cars in different sizes and with different speed capacities. In a conversation with the owner, Kegan Mack, the cost for these cars range from approximately $200 to $1,000! Race classes are focused for different age groups. Racers have ranged from 7 years old to 70 years old! Racing RC Cars is a great hobby for all ages. Racers were in attendance from Randolph, New York during my visit and in addition to our locals, racers also come from areas such as Bradford and Kane to compete.
While Riverside Racing is open seasonally from October through April, some of their vehicles have been seen at events such as the Fourth of July Parade and "Touch a Truck", many times doing some impressive stunts! On occasion Riverside Racing may also hold a Demo Derby for entertainment.
While the carpeted track is oval, it can also be converted to a road race track! The younger participants usually start first and the more advanced a little later.
At times, the cars may have a mishap and be in need of a new part. There is a part store conveniently located at the track and in addition to parts, there are some used cars for sale as well as snacks.
It is free to be a spectator! Racing is always on Saturday nights with Riverside Raceway opening their doors at 5 p.m. and racing starting at 6:15 p.m. Some nights the racing may last until midnight! Many locals may have some fond memories of the racetrack. It has been a part of Warren County with Lou Dussia owner of Dreamboat Marine in Starbrick, Ron Thomas, and Jeff Frailey seeing the potential for an indoor RC racetrack back in 1988. They had their work cutout for them but their determination paid off!
One thing that hasn't changed in the past 37 years since Riverside Raceway first began is the enjoyment that it brings to all ages! Riverside Raceway may have passed ownership through the years, but Lou Dussia still has enough love for it that his store, Dreamboat Marine, is still the go-to place to find many of these cars. Pay a visit to Riverside Raceway on one of these cold winter Saturday nights and see what its all about! You will be met by many friendly people that will be happy to share why they love it so much! I would like to thank Kegan Mack for sharing information about this great family friendly entertainment and another opportunity to get out and have fun on a Saturday night in Warren County! I would also like to thank Sam Snyder for the grand tour! We hope to see you at the Riverside Raceway RC Races!
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