The Last Pass: A Tribute to Bandimere Speedway's Legacy
A local film company is working on a documentary that tells the story of Bandimere Speedway, a historic racetrack located in Morrison, Colorado. Known as Thunder Mountain, the racetrack was established in 1958 by the Bandimere family and became famous for hosting professional racing events like the NHRA Mile-High Nationals at high altitude. After 65 years of operation, the racetrack held its final national event in July 2023 and closed its doors at the original location on S Rooney Road in October 2024.
5280 Pictures, in collaboration with SKG Productions, Ltd and Big Red Nose Productions, is producing the documentary titled "The Last Pass" to commemorate the legacy of Bandimere Speedway. The film features interviews with the Bandimere family, drag racers, and archival footage from the racetrack's history. The documentary aims to showcase the unique significance of Thunder Mountain and the impact it had on the racing community.
In the trailer for the documentary, drag racer Steve Johnson praises the exceptional nature of Bandimere Speedway, highlighting the remarkable achievement of carving a racetrack out of a mountain. John Bandimere Jr., reflecting on the track's legacy, emphasizes the importance of setting the standard rather than following others in the industry. The film captures the spirit and history of Bandimere Speedway, celebrating its contributions to the world of drag racing.
While the original Bandimere Speedway has closed, plans for a new racetrack are underway. The Bandimere family announced their intention to break ground on a new location in Weld County, with John Bandimere Jr. confirming the official announcement this year. The legacy of Thunder Mountain lives on through the documentary "The Last Pass," which is set to air soon, offering a tribute to the iconic racetrack and its enduring impact on the racing community.