EDMONTON, AB. – Many Northern Provincial Pipelines Late Model Series drivers plan to relax this Canada Day long weekend. For some however it will be just another weekend to work. Dwight Kennedy, owner of Northern Provincial Pipelines Ltd. and driver of the #81 Lucas Oil Dodge says not only can wet, rainy weather affect races it also affects the pipeline industry. “Its impossible to work in stormy conditions. We’re so behind because of the recent rains we think we’re ahead. We are about three weeks behind on a couple of jobs and have two brand new jobs starting next week. I’ve been told that July and August are going to be a lot drier so that will help things out. The good news is the drier weather means we will be able to get some racing in too.”

The Edson, Alberta driver currently sits second in the NPP Championship point standings. The owner of Trapper’s Auto Parts and Towing in Whitecourt is following in Kennedy’s footsteps as far as long weekend plans. “Just hired a new tow truck driver,” says the driver of the #10 Chevrolet, “I’ve just acquired some new tow equipment as well so I will be putting on my instructor hat and will be in training mode for the long weekend. If all goes well I’ll be at the next race.” Day, who currently sits fourth in the NPP Championship points chase is off to his best season start ever. Both Stony Plain, Alberta’s Mike Tom and Whitecourt, Alberta’s Kevin Wheeler plan on distancing themselves as far away from work as possible this long holiday weekend. “Heading to the mountains to do a little camping,” says Mike Tom, driver of the Hinton Oilfield Services #55 Chevrolet, “the lighter race schedule does allow for more time with the family by the campfire. As a family that races I can tell you that we are all looking forward to getting back on the track next weekend.” Kevin Wheeler, owner of KW Mechanical won’t be straying to far from home on the Canada Day long weekend. “We are going quading, dirt biking and camping in the Whitecourt area.” Wheeler sits third in the NPP Championship point standings. “Its nice to be able to step away from work once in awhile and have some fun.”