All the excitement of racing can be found locally at the Honey Brook Speedway, where youths ranging in age from 5 to 16 compete while driving quarter midget race cars.

Those interested in learning more about the sport are encouraged to attend the Keystone Invitational, which will take place at the speedway on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, July 7, 8 and 9. A complete schedule for the event can be found at http://www.facebook.com/honeybrookspeedway.

"I think (attending the Keystone Invitational) would be a great taster for people interested in getting their kids involved," said Jen Snyder, whose sons compete at the track. "There are multiple families there to talk about racing with someone who is interested."

While preregistration is closed, walk-ins will also be welcome. Drivers are required to be members of the United States Auto Club (USAC) to participate. "It's a unique event. You get to race four times. It gives the most seat time to a child already racing," Snyder pointed out.

The Honey Brook Speedway began in 1958 as the Doylestown Quarter Midget Club (DQMC), located in Doylestown, and moved to the Honey Brook location in the early 1980s. Races are held on Sundays at noon. Admission is free and open to the public.

Arrive and Drive events are also offered throughout the race season, offering opportunities for youths ages 5 to 13 to try the sport. The cars are provided, as well as safety equipment, including a helmet, gloves, a race suit, arm restraints, a neck brace and seat belts. A fee is charged for 10 laps around the track.

"We attended an Arrive and Drive (last) August and have been involved ever since," Snyder stated.

Those who want to become involved in the sport must first purchase a car, which can be used for a number of years depending on the child's growth. "It is an upfront cost. ... And then you pay to drive as little or as much as you want. If you travel more, it creates cost," Snyder said. "It's comparable (in cost to other sports). You can keep the same car."

Snyder added that the track may potentially be removed from Honey Brook since the property was purchased. "We are working to develop a relationship (with the developer) to stay at our current location," she stated.

Those affiliated with the track hope that the facility will remain where it is because its presence is a boost to the local economy. "All fuel is required to be purchased by the local gas station in Honey Brook," noted Snyder. "Races attract people from out of town that come to enjoy the local restaurants and venues in the area. Track meetings are held monthly at the Waynebrook Inn in Honey Brook along with our yearly banquet."

"The Honey Brook Speedway has become a landmark for the local community," she added.

Honey Brook Speedway is located at 2177 Horseshoe Pike (Route 322), Honey Brook. For more information, visit the previously mentioned Facebook page or http://www.honeybrookspeedway.com. In the event of inclement weather, cancellation information about the Keystone Invitational will be posted on the aforementioned website and Facebook page.