A “home grown” all door car drag racing series has certainly stood the test of time within Western Canada….

British Columbia’s Mission Raceway is home to the Canada West Doorslammers (CWDS), a creative and unique local class phenomena, started over two decades ago, and entering their 24th season – this year.

Originally conceived by Jason Syvertsen and Stan Schmidt back in 1998, this club and category has remained solid within the wheelhouse for every season schedule for drag racing at the marquee left-coast Canadian facility. It has also consistently provided very competitive and entertaining racing as well as a breeding ground for drag racer advancement.

Within the CWDS format, racers do follow most of the NHRA guidelines for advanced ET car racing with just a few exceptions, while entries pursue a minimum of the localized 8.70 secs index.

CWDS events (about 8 each season) are a well choreographed chase that utilizes a 4/10th Pro tree with each event being a sportsman laddered qualified field of six, seven and eight second cars running at a minimum 8.70 secs ET.

“Our rules are pretty standard – they have changed only a little bit over their history,” revealed Marcy (Copley) Moffett, who is the Director and President of the CWDS, since 2002.

Consistency in cars can also be extended to the entry lists for most CWDS events with each race typically and historically grabbing 20-30 racers, which is something the series is deservedly very proud of.

“Way back and initially it was a Quick 16 concept – 8.70 (secs) or quicker,” Marcy continued. “But over time it was realized that did have some affect for people who were travelling longer distances (ie: from Alberta or the USA) – not knowing for sure that they would be able to make the field. Our priority became to develop an environment to encourage teams to enter — which was good for both the club and also track business. So the series has evolved to “all run” — which assures everyone qualifying (with a minimum of 8.70 secs) a chance to run in eliminations. That has kept our participation up — each year we have about 30-35 active paid members.”

Over it’s 20+ years history the CWDS circuit (at Mission Raceway) has boasted and included an interesting mix of shapes and technology!

As the CWDS enters its 2021 season – acknowledgment for the longevity and success of it must be directed to Marcy (Copley) Moffett herself — who is undeniably it’s primary driving force. Marcy, who is also a Sales Manager at Bob Marshall’s reputed TCS Products, has a very deep passion for and long involvement in drag racing.

Marcy Copley Moffett has been “all hands on deck” behind Mission Raceway’s CWDS class fame and fortunes.

“I grew up within drag racing — I did have my own Super Gas car for a time and was part of Bob Marshall’s racing crew,” she affirmed. “Since I first took over running the series it’s been a huge part of my life ever since. Basically I oversee the whole thing – securing sponsors – scheduling all the events and coordinating each one – including collecting entry fees and doing the payouts and point tallies. I oversee and judge all the rules and each year at the end organizing the banquet. There has been a lot of blood and sweat and tears over many years — but I’m proud of the association and the continued success of the series to date.”

Marcy did offer up important credit too to Dean Murdoch (from Speedzone Magazine) who has been invaluable with the series’s PR, media duties (including website) over a long period of time. She also thanked her husband (Chris) for his continued support and help over the past many years.

Recently the CDWS has revealed its 2021 racing schedule for Mission Raceway. After being forced into an abbreviated five races in 2020 (due to COVID) — the plan is to return to 8 races again this summer – scheduled between May and September, during which points are earned towards season-ending top 10 championship prestige.

Scott Robinson – is the 2X and defending CWDS series champion heading into this season. Scott’s RAD Torque-backed Chevy Beretta is based from Chilliwack BC

The series does boast an overall title sponsor (Winter Harbour Marina & RV – Winter Harbour BC) as well as a impressive number of valued associates — currently including: Artex Barn Solutions (Abbotsford), Greenlight Auto Sales (Mission), Paradise Homes (Victoria), Accurate Brake & Muffler (Surrey), Alpine Backhoe/Lance Racing (Campbell River), Associated Tire & Auto (Campbell River), Comox Valley Bobcat & Excavating (Courtney), TCS Performance Products (Langley) and RH Race Car (Kelowna).

For more information on the CWDS – link to their official social media: HERE

Posted by Bruce Biegler
DragRaceCanada File photos by Bruce Biegler – Les Puchala – Kiana Eaton