Dover Raceway repairs push ahead for Labor Day motorsport meet after Hurricane Melissa damage

Stakeholders at Dover Raceway in St. Ann are trying to have the facility ready for its first race meet of the year on Labor Day, May 25, after Hurricane Melissa left major damage across the property last October.

Motorsport events at Dover usually draw large crowds, with supporters turning out for drivers and riders competing in several classes. Since the hurricane, however, much of the venue has required repair, although the racing surface itself was not damaged.

The rest of the property was badly affected. Fallen trees blocked sections of the road, the tower was damaged, walls collapsed, roofs were torn up, pit-area doors were damaged, power lines came down and several other items were shifted out of place.

Repair estimates have put the cost at more than $14 million, with the damage described as exceeding $10 million overall. The impact forced the postponement of the Need for Speed meet, which is usually held on Easter Monday, to Labor Day.

Despite the cost and the short timeline, the Jamaica Race Drivers Club has been preparing the venue for the weekend event. Members have been assisting with the recovery work, though officials say more support would be welcome. Some members are also from western Jamaica and were affected by the hurricane.

With the Atlantic hurricane season due to run from next month through November, stakeholders are also considering stronger repairs for the future. Temporary roof fixes have been used so far, but the plan is to look at more durable structures that could better withstand a Category 5 hurricane in the Caribbean.

Fans are being urged to support the sport as the track continues its recovery. Stakeholders say rebuilding the competition calendar is important for racers, spectators and sponsors, with the meet scheduled to begin at 9:00 a.m.