Old Timer’s Chariot Races are returning to Afton this weekend, January 8-9 at noon at the tracks west of Afton.

According to Tom Nelson, event organizer, ten or twelve teams from Wyoming, Idaho and Utah are entered to participate in the meet.

Animals and drivers prepare with plenty of feed and exercise. Drivers must be at least 16 years of age.

Preparation for the meet include circling fields to get in shape for the season and for specific events.

“We’ve been doing this longer than I have been alive and I’m 59,” commented Nelson about the racing tradition. He is planning to participate as a racer. “It’s kind of like a play date type thing where people can come in to qualify a horse or get them to run. It helps them get out.”

Three Chariot racing associations are involved with the event, including the All American and Western Wyoming associations and an association out of Ogden, UT.

Entry is $5 a person. There are special rates offered for families and young children.

“This time of year, spectators can watch from their cars,” stated Nelson. “Come and watch and see what we’re about.”