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July 12, 2006
Richmond 30 consecutive sell-out: While making the 2006 Chase for the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup is all the buzz for NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series drivers as they prepare for the 26th race of the season at Richmond International Raceway, a milestone is all the buzz for track officials and fans. Track President Doug Fritz announced today the Chevy Rock & Roll 400 on Saturday night, September 9 will mark the 30th consecutive NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series sellout at America’s Premier Short Track, a streak that has now lasted 15 years. That means all 107,097 seats will once again be filled for the final race before the Chase for the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup. The sellout streak started with the Pontiac Excitement 400 on March 8, 1992 and has continued through each NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway for the last 15 years. The track has hosted two NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series races each year since 1959. Nearly 2.5 million fans from all 50 states and dozens of foreign countries have attended NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series events at Richmond International Raceway during that time. (RIR PR)
July 8, 2006
Vegas Second Date?
Possible Schedule Expansion? Daytona 500 Primetime Start?
Earliest possible NW & NYC race 2011
June 6, 2006:
Auction raises 36K for Ard
Chef Batali honorary starter of Pocono
Road improvements planned for MIS: Roads around Michigan International Speedway will get more than $18 million in improvements over the next three years. The projects are designed to ease traffic around the Brooklyn area speedway, which hosts two NASCAR races and an IndyCar race each summer. Hundreds of thousands of fans attend the events, often moving slowly in traffic for hours getting to the track or heading home. Some of the construction will be accelerated from previously planned schedules. (WWMT)
Pocono Traffic alerts
Cheech to Grand Marshall Dodge/Save Mart 350: Cheech Marin has been named Grand Marshal of the Dodge/Save Mart 350 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series weekend at Infineon Raceway, June 23-25. Marin, best known as one-half of the counter-culture, no-holds barred duo of Cheech and Chong, will be honored throughout the weekend, most notably at the Raceway Builders Grand Marshal’s Banquet on Friday night at beautiful Cline Cellars in Sonoma. “This is a big honor for me and I’m looking forward to coming out to Sonoma,” said Marin, a native of Los Angeles. “I’ve always loved the Bay Area, and NASCAR is truly growing into one of the biggest sports in the country. It’s a great way to spend the weekend.” Most recently, Marin supplied the voice of Ramone in the Disney/PIXAR animated feature film “CARS,” which will be formally released this weekend. He probably owes the resurgence of his career to his scene-stealing role in the movie “Tin Cup,” where he played Kevin Costner’s caddy. The performance led to his role in the long-time CBS hit crime series “Nash Bridges,” where he teamed with co-star Don Johnson. Though best known for his comedy and acting, Marin is also a director, writer, musician, art collector and humanitarian. When Hollywood is not monopolizing his time, Marin is busy promoting CHICANO, his vision of Chicano art and expression as brought to life in a museum exhibition. CHICANO, which features Marin’s own personal Chicano art collection, first opened in 2001 and has toured the United States, including the Smithsonian (www.chicano.com). (Infineon Raceway PR)
June 1, 2006:
Champ Car fights getting bumped by NASCAR in Montreal: Champ Car's fifth year at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve could be a race for survival. Amid reports the Aug. 25-27 Champ Car Grand Prix of Montreal may be bumped off the track by a NASCAR Busch Series event next year, organizers are hoping for a big turnout to prove it deserves to stay in Montreal. City Hall is to decide whether to grant exclusive rights to promote races at the municipally owned venue to Normand Legault, promoter of the hugely successful Canadian Grand Prix Formula One race. Legault is reported to be close to a deal with NASCAR to bring one of its second-tier events, the Busch Series, to Montreal in 2007, with an eye to hosting a top-tier Nextel Cup event in the future. Since only two race weekends per year can be held at the track near to downtown, that could leave the Champ Cars out in the cold. (TSN)
May 25, 2006
Dover Announces Speedway Improvements: Dover International Speedway announced plans for a new five-year capital improvement project, referred to as the "Monster Makeover," that will provide new offerings and upgraded amenities for fans, competitors and the media. Construction on the multi-million dollar project will begin after the upcoming June 2-4, 2006 NASCAR weekend. Some planned elements of the Monster Makeover at Dover International Speedway include:
A skybox complex that will include a luxury club for individual fans
A new entrance thoroughfare for fans on the east side of the Speedway, ushering guests into a variety of new race weekend entertainment options
A reorganized vehicle and pedestrian pattern to improve ingress, egress and overall safety of patrons
New and upgraded food and beverage facilities
New ticket and merchandise sales buildings
An expanded and relocated expo and souvenir vendor area
An outdoor concert area
A special recognition area that pays tribute to legendary NASCAR drivers
Additional permanent restrooms
Expanded bus parking
A new first aid center
A play area for children
While a majority of the planned improvements will be concentrated outside of the track, efforts will also be made to further enhance the top-notch racing product provided on the one-mile concrete oval. The Monster Mile is already recognized for providing gritty, competitive action on the track; planned improvements are designed to create an even better experience for all fans, competitors and the media. Improvements inside the track include: An expanded pit road that will provid more fans with views of the action in the pits, while providing safer and easier entry and exit from pit lane for competitors A new garage for NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series teams that will also incorporate rooftop viewing for fans An expanded infield media center to better accommodate the legions of national, regional and local media who cover the Dover races Ongoing improvement projects began after the conclusion of last year’s September race weekend. Some of this work includes: Continued renovations of the permanent restrooms around the facility; additional paving of concession, bathroom and stairwell areas; shower facilities for guests in Dover RV lots; upgrades to the PA sound system; signage and exterior upgrades to the hospitality tent villages; renovations to the media centers; renovations to the existing skybox suites; and overall landscaping and beautification projects around the property. Tickets for the June 2-4 and Sept. 22-24, 2006 NASCAR race weekends at Dover International Speedway are available by calling the ticket office at 800-441-RACE or online at www.DoverSpeedway.com. (Dover Speedway PR)
May 24, 2006:
Sandler to Grand Marshall Michigan race: There will already be plenty of NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series stars at Michigan International Speedway for the 3M Performance 400, but June 18th has gotten even brighter with the naming of popular film star Adam Sandler as the race’s Grand Marshal. Adam Sandler is the star of over a dozen films including the blockbuster comedies The Longest Yard, Happy Gilmore, The Wedding Singer, 50 First Dates and Big Daddy, to name just a few. Sandler, who will give the command to start engines as well as participate in other pre-race ceremonies, is appearing at MIS only days before the June 23 release of his newest film. Sandler, who has attended other NASCAR races, will be seeing his first at MIS. “I’m looking forward to being part of a great event,” he said. “As someone who has portrayed athletes in films, I have a lot of respect for NASCAR drivers and what they do. I’ve met some of the drivers and it’s easy to see that they are why the sport is so popular with the fans.” (MIS PR)
May 13, 2006:
MIS President to step down: International Speedway Corporation today announced W. Brett Shelton, President of Michigan International Speedway ("MIS"), will step down from his position at the end of the 2006 racing season at MIS. Roger A. Curtis, Vice President of Marketing and Sales for California Speedway, has been named as Shelton's replacement and will move to MIS to begin working on the transition immediately. "We are saddened to see such an outstanding employee like Brett leave our organization," said ISC Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer John R. Saunders. "He has made significant accomplishments during his nine years of loyal service to ISC, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors. "We are fortunate to be able to tap a highly successful and motivated executive like Roger to take the helm at MIS. Roger is a creative and strategic leader with a long track record of success not only within our company, but in the motorsports industry. We look forward to a very smooth transition period over the next several months and the continued long-term success of MIS." "My wife Elisabeth, our son Blake and I have enjoyed our five, going on six seasons at MIS immensely which made this a difficult decision," said Shelton, who is planning to move his family back to Muscle Shoals, Alabama. "The fans at MIS are arguably the best in racing and we have a tremendous seasoned staff which should make the transition much easier. I've had a chance to work with Roger Curtis for a number of years during our time with ISC and I think he'll be a great fit for MIS." Curtis, 39, a Terre Haute, Indiana native, brings over 15 years of Motorsports experience to MIS and is looking forward to returning to his Midwest roots. To purchase tickets to events at MIS, or for more information, log onto www.MISpeedway.com or call the MIS ticket hotline at 1-800-354-1010. (MIS PR)
April 19, 2006:
France offers comments about All-Star race location
Richmond Sold-Out 29th consecutive time: Reinforcing its position as one of the most popular NASCAR destinations and having one of the most coveted tickets in racing, Richmond International Raceway officials announced today its 29th straight NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series race sellout. Track President Doug Fritz announced all 107,097 seats for the newly named Crown Royal 400 set for Saturday, May 6 “under the lights” have been sold. During the sellout streak, more than 2.2 million fans from all 50 states and dozens of foreign countries have attended NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series events at Richmond International Raceway. “Richmond International Raceway is known as a fan favorite and selling out our 29th straight NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series race is a testament to the exciting experience fans have when they come for a race,” said Fritz. “We had great test sessions for the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup and Busch Series’ and should see some of the best racing yet ‘under the lights’ at Richmond International Raceway when the drivers return for the Crown Royal 400 and Circuit City 250 Presented by FUNAI.” (RIR PR)
April 17, 2006:
Crown Royal to sponsor Richmond Cup races: In its continuing efforts to engage race fans, Crown Royal Championship Racing today announced that the world-famous whisky brand has reached a multi-year, entitlement agreement for the annual spring NASCAR NEXTEL Cup series race at Richmond International Raceway, beginning with the May 6 event this season. The race, which will now be called The Crown Royal 400, will be broadcast live on the F/X network “under the lights.” "We are honored and proud to have such a significant presence during a race at one of NASCAR’s most entertaining and popular tracks," said Jim Lorenz, Senior Brand Manager, Crown Royal. "Richmond International Raceway will always be special to Crown Royal and our consumers as it was the site of our first-ever victory. The promotional agreement for the race name provides us with yet another platform to advance our ‘Be a Champion. Drink Responsibly.’ message.” The benefits of the promotional relationship with Richmond International Raceway offer Crown Royal a highly visible national medium to engage race fans with its "Be a Champion. Drink Responsibly." message, which serves as the foundation for all of Crown Royal’s motorsports initiatives. (RIR PR)
April 10, 2006:
Body found mile away from Speedway
April 9, 2006:
Smallest crowd in Texas history Sunday
April 8, 2006:
FBI at Texas Motor Speedway
April 7, 2006:
ISC sees quarterly profits go up: International Speedway Corp. reported a 7.3 percent gain in profit for its first quarter, driven, in large part, by a successful Speed Weeks in Daytona Beach. ISC's revenue for the December-February period increased to $193.9 million, compared to $179.4 million in the year-earlier period. Net income was $44.1 million, or 83 cents per share, up from $41.1 million, or 77 cents per diluted share, a year ago. "Increased broadcast rights revenue for NASCAR's Nextel Cup and Busch Series contributed to our record results, as well as higher overall sponsorship, hospitality and other motorsports-related revenues," John Saunders, ISC's chief operating officer, said Thursday in a conference call with investment analysts. Although the Bud Shootout was delayed a day because of rain, attendance for the Craftsman truck and Busch Series races was up more than 10 percent over last year, he said. The Daytona 500, as usual, sold out. "ISC posted record television statistics, with over 37 million viewers tuned in for the race," he said. The ratings were the highest ever for a NASCAR race, the company said. Susan Schandel, ISC's chief financial officer, said ticket sales for the quarter were relatively flat at $55.5 million. (Daytona News Journal)
March 25, 2006:
Kenneth Campbell Sr passes away.: Former Richmond International Raceway Vice President of Public Relations Robert “Kenneth” Campbell Sr., who helped promote racing for nearly 60 years in Richmond, passed away late last night. He was 83 and resided in Chesterfield County, Virginia at the time of his passing. Known as “Kenneth” to his friends and co-workers, Mr. Campbell helped promote races in Richmond starting in 1948 when Nelson Royall built the facility that is now know as Southside Speedway. Fourteen years later, he joined former Richmond International Raceway owner Paul Sawyer as a partner to help promote races at the ½-mile dirt track known at the Virginia State Fairgrounds. That track, of course, was later reconfigured into a ¾-mile paved oval and today is known as Richmond International Raceway. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Lois Gronlund Campbell; daughter, Deborah “Dodie” Campbell Ortland; son, Robert Kenneth Campbell, Jr.; sister Wanda Campbell Brinkley and brother Garland Campbell. He was preceded in death by his parents John Harding Campbell and Era Atkins Campbell. The family will hold a private burial. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in his name to the Victory Junction Gang Camp at 4500 Adam’s Way, Randleman, SC 27317. Upon Mr. Campbell’s retirement, the Richmond International Raceway media center was named after him. A memorial service will be held at the Kenneth Campbell Media Center located in the Richmond International Raceway infield on Friday, March 31 at 5:00 p.m. (RIR PR)
March 9, 2006:
Indy for sale rumor: Brock Yates, one of the country's best and most respected motorsports writers, speculates in this month's Car & Driver magazine that the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is for sale and the France family and Disney are potential buyers. This rumor has been around for the past few years, along with the one that said Roger Penske would broker the deal for the Frances. Yes, Tony George has spent millions and millions of dollars on Formula One and keeping the Indy Racing League afloat but the Brickyard 400 remains a three-day cash cow. And Indy still makes money. Bottom line: Mari Hulman George, who remains THE BOSS of the IMS kingdom, has said time and again that Indy isn't for sale -- it's for her grandchildren. No reason to think Mari has changed her mind. (SPEED TV)
Jan. 13, 2006:
Judge to rule on dismissal motion of Ky. Speedway vs. ISC: A federal judge said Thursday that he would rule "as quick as I can" on a motion to dismiss the Kentucky Speedway's $400 million antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR and International Speedway Corp. U.S. District Judge William O. Bertelsman heard about two hours of testimony from a roomful of lawyers representing both sides but gave no indication as to how he might rule. "I know everyone wants a decision," Bertelsman said as he gathered up a high stack of cases, rulings, briefs and documents at the end of the hearing. "I'll make it as quick as I can," he said. Operators of the 5-year-old Speedway have gone to court to land a Nextel Cup auto race. (Cincinnati Enquirer)
Jan. 12, 2006:
Report: Las Vegas Motor Speedway to add banking
NEXTEL Cup team not testing at Watkins Glen
Jan. 10, 2006:
M.I.S. and AAA brings NASCAR to Detroit Auto Show
Gordon to be keynote speaker at Vegas Children's charity
Jan. 9, 2006:
All-State 400 Tickets on Sale: Tickets will go on sale to the general public Tuesday, Jan. 10 for the 2006 Allstate 400 at the Brickyard at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. All fans can order tickets online at www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com, by calling the IMS ticket office at (317) 492-6700 or (800) 822-INDY outside the Indianapolis area, or at the ticket office at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Parking and camping information also can be obtained through the ticket office. Hours for phone orders and the ticket office are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (EST) Monday-Friday, while online orders can be made at any time. Reserved seats start at just $35. The 13th Allstate 400 at the Brickyard is scheduled for Sunday, Aug. 6. Indiana native and resident Tony Stewart earned his emotional first victory at the Speedway in last year’s race in the No. 20 Home Depot Chevrolet, holding off Kasey Kahne in the closing laps. (IMS PR)
Jan. 8, 2006:
San Antonio NASCAR style track proposed? Near the SBC Center, the company has proposed a rodeo village, a NASCAR track, professional football and baseball stadiums, and condominium towers. It's also looking to bring Grand Prix racing back to San Antonio. And then there's everything else in its Alamo City portfolio: the development of South Port, an industrial and retail park across the road from Toyota's pickup plant, the build-out of the Briggs Ranch golf community, and the planned construction of a 16-story condominium tower on the River Walk. (San Antonio Express)
Dec. 21, 2005:
NW track gains more support
Petty Driving Experience at Iowa Track
Dec. 20, 2005:
Developer loses verdict in So. Cali track judgement A San Diego federal jury has rejected developer Rocque de la Fuente II's request for a multimillion judgment against the federal government for more than 17 acres condemned in Otay Mesa for a border fence. De la Fuente argued that the government should pay him $48 million to $72 million because its project ruined his plans to build a racetrack big enough for 70,000 to 100,000 NASCAR fans. Federal lawyers argued that the strip of land, about 150 to 300 feet wide and a half-mile long, was worth about $265,000, based on what similar property nearby sold for in 1999 when it was condemned. The jury awarded de la Fuente more than $1.2 million Friday after a three-week trial. Both sides called the verdict a victory. In the verdict, the jury rejected de la Fuente's request for the government to pay the cost of a massive parking garage to make up for the lost land had the track been built. He presented testimony from NASCAR executive Jim Hunter, who told jurors that once a rival track, California Speedway, opened in Fontana in 1997, the stock car racing series no longer sought expansion in Southern California. (San Diego Union Tribune)
Dec..15, 2005:
Kentucky Speedway/ISC antitrust trial to stay in Kentucky: The Kentucky Speedway has won the first victory in its multi-million-dollar lawsuit against NASCAR. U.S. District Judge William O. Bertelsman denied NASCAR's request to move the case to Florida, where NASCAR is headquartered. Instead, the case will be heard where it was filed, in U.S. District Court in Covington. "There exists a strong public interest in having this controversy adjudicated locally," Bertelsman wrote in the eight-page order. "Particularly, the court concludes that the great public interest in having this dispute decided locally tips the balance in favor of retaining the case." Cincinnati lawyer Stan Chesley, who leads a team representing the speedway that includes anti-trust expert Steve Sussman of Houston and Mark Guilfoyle of Edgewood, said he was "very pleased" with the ruling. "It's a very thorough opinion, one that is certainly supported by the law, and we're looking forward to moving on in the case," Chesley said. Bertelsman scheduled the next hearing for Jan. 12. At that hearing NASCAR will ask the judge to dismiss the lawsuit. "(Bertelsman's) decision is unfortunate but relatively minor," said NASCAR spokesman Ramsey Poston. "More importantly, NASCAR will be ready to make the case for dismissal on Jan. 12." NASCAR lawyers had argued that the case should be moved closer to its Daytona, Fla., headquarters where witnesses, records and other information are located. Bertelsman didn't buy that argument. "The convenience of parties and witnesses is a wash," Bertelsman said in his ruling. "Witnesses are in Florida, Kentucky and all around the country." NASCAR also had argued that information contained in contracts it has signed with the speedway, where NASCAR does run truck and Busch series races but not Nextel Cup, stipulate that the case should be moved to Florida. Bertelsman concluded there are more compelling reasons to keep the case in Covington than contract clauses. "Apparently, a Nextel race is the World Series or Super Bowl of that sport," he said. "Many members of the local community are fans who have a great interest in having such a race occur locally." (Cincinnati Enquirer)
Talladega to be repaved
Dec.. 13, 2005:
Group looking to reopen Wilkesboro: A grass-roots group is lobbying to return racing to North Wilkesboro Speedway, but a $12 million price tag might be too steep for Wilkes County. That's the asking price of Bruton Smith and Bob Bahre, who own the former NASCAR track. A group calling itself Save the Speedway, which wants to bring racing back to the .625-mile oval, retired an online petition last week after gathering 4,582 signatures. Save the Speedway is led by Rob Marsden, a 24-year-old computer specialist from New York. "We feel we've got a full package," he said. "The only thing we seem to be lacking is the financing to make it happen." Marsden's group wants the county to buy the speedway, then lease it to them. County officials told the Winston-Salem Journal they cannot take on all the risk. (USA Today)
Iowa Company to finance rest of Newton track: An Iowa-based construction company says it will guarantee the money needed to completed construction of the Iowa Speedway in Newton, a planned NASCAR-style racetrack. Newton Mayor Chaz Allen says the parent company of Manatt's Incorporated has offered to provide the funding. Manatt's officials say they've obtained financing through Wells Fargo Bank. They declined to say how much money they would be guaranteeing for the project. The city has been hesitant to begin building streets to the racetrack until it has assurances from the developers that financing is guaranteed to finish the track. Streets are estimated to cost just under 14 (M) million dollars. The federal government will pay for about half the cost and the city will borrow the rest. (WHO-TV)
Dec. 12, 2005:
Vegas start time set
Dec.. 9, 2005:
SMI sees new television package positive: Speedway Motorsports, Inc. reacted positively to the details of NASCAR's new eight year, approximately $4.48 billion television package that was announced Wednesday. The agreements run from 2007 through 2014 and provide for the broadcast rights of 36 NEXTEL Cup races and the Busch and Craftsman Truck series events. We understand Fox, ABC/ESPN, TNT and SPEED Channel will carry the events for an average annual rights fee of approximately $560 million - a 40% increase over the current average. The remaining details about the transaction are still under negotiation. "I am excited to see the 40% increase that comes with this new TV deal," said SMI Chairman and CEO Bruton Smith. "In an era where ratings are decreasing for most major league sports and competition is fierce for viewers, this shows the strong and growing value of NASCAR." "This is a positive development for our company and our industry. The 40% increase is a signal that our sport continues to grow. Increased broadcast exposure will increase our marketing opportunities and help us win more fans," said SMI president and chief operating officer H.A. "Humpy" Wheeler. "I'm real happy with the increase of 40% over the current broadcast contracts. A large percentage of our revenues through 2014 will be already contracted. Racing fans will be able to see two thirds of NEXTEL Cup series events on network television with the remaining events on cable. The Busch and Truck series events gain additional exposure as well. Overall, this deal underscores the expanding popularity of the sport." (SMI PR)
Nov. 30, 2005:
Kitsap Track Press Conference
Nov. 29, 2005:
Iowa track road on hold: Newton officials have put the brakes on a road to the 70 (m) million dollar Iowa Speedway. Last night, the City Council rejected a one-point-seven (m) million dollar contract for the road project. The council says it won't spend additional money without assurances that the developer, U-S Motorsports, has the money to finish the track. The group's Dennis Chalupa says he's confident the group will provide the information the city wants and that the road will be built in time for the racing season, which is scheduled to start in September. (WOI-TV)
Nov. 22, 2005:
ISC still looking at Denver for track: Denver still is a potential market for NASCAR despite the closing of Pikes Peak International Raceway, according to Lenny Santiago, senior investment relations analyst for International Speedway Corporation. "Denver is definitely a very important market for us," Santiago said Monday. "ISC tried to do some projects there many, many years ago, but it still remains a priority in our forward growth. Right now, we have our (Nextel Cup) projects out near Seattle and Staten Island (N.Y.). Over the long term, we believe there is a potential in the Denver market for some NASCAR racing, whether it be Cup or Busch. We would definitely explore that opportunity. "I'm just looking at something here for our TV stats for the Nextel Cup through the year, and the Denver market is up over double digits in terms of households in and ratings." And Denver has more potential than PPIR did for NASCAR events. "We purchased the Pikes Peak facility, and it had successful Busch races," Santiago said. "However, it had some challenges recently. The IRL (Indy Racing League) had pulled its date for next year. So it was facing a difficult situation in terms of other external market-related factors. "In terms of ISC, we believe we can grow the Busch much more quickly, not to say it couldn't grow at Pikes Peak, but we believe we can grow it quicker at another one of our facilities, namely Martinsville (Va.). . . . Location certainly was one component of the issues that faced the Pikes Peak facility." (In part from Rocky Mountain News)
Nov. 9, 2005:
PIR fans be prepared for traffic back-ups: Valley residents and race fans should brace themselves for hours of traffic tie-ups as NASCAR lovers flock to Phoenix International Raceway for this weekend's big race in the southwest Valley. State, Maricopa County and city agencies have been working closely for the past month to get cars flowing through Avondale and Goodyear as smoothly as possible, but don't expect any miracles. More than 30,000 cars will pulse through Avondale's streets two times a day for four days as race fans get in and out of PIR for the Checker Auto Parts 500. The extra cars will create hours of traffic back-ups, impatient drivers and unhappy residents who just want to get out of their cars and into their homes. "The traffic coming out of PIR after a race is the equivalent of five hours of heavy traffic on a Valley freeway," said Roger Ball, a spokesperson for the Maricopa County Department of Transportation.Traffic tangles are the biggest price residents and fans pay when one of the state's largest sporting events takes over the southwest Valley, Ball said. (AZ Central)
Oct. 25, 2005:
Damage done due to Hurricane Wilma at Homestead
Oct. 24, 2005:
ISC looking to build speedway near Denver? The France family's decision to buy and shut down the Pikes Peak, Colo., race track, apparently with a clause that any buyer cannot use the facility for racing, has prompted heavy speculation that the France's International Speedway Corp. (ISC) may now revive plans to build a new superspeedway in the Denver metropolitan area. A Denver track has been studied for more than 10 years, with proposed sites near the airport, 30 miles from downtown. (Salem-Journal)
Public funding for NW track not likely if bill passes
Oct. 20, 2005:
Texas Tickets remains still
Dover tweaks 2006 schedule: The NASCAR schedule at Dover International Speedway will have a different look, beginning with race weekend in June 2006. The biggest change is that Nextel Cup qualifying will be moved from Friday to Saturday in a move that will align Dover with most other tracks on NASCAR's schedule. "It is a significant change, because it obviously changes our Friday lineup pretty dramatically," said Denis McGlynn, president and CEO of Dover International Speedway. "We thought we'd try this new schedule out and see how it goes. "NASCAR has spoken to all of the tracks about going this route, and we're all on the same team here. We're just trying to give and take and see how it helps all parties involved." Highlighting the changes in the race weekend schedule at Dover beginning next year: (Delaware Online)
Don't make your TMS Samsung/Radio Shack reservations just yet
Oct. 19, 2005:
SUBWAY 500 Sold Out: Martinsville Speedway officials announced Tuesday's afternoon that all of the grandstand seating for Sunday's SUBWAY 500 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup have been sold. A limited number of standing-room only seats will be put on sale at 7:30 a.m. Sunday. Tickets do remain for Saturday's Kroger 2o0 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race. Tickets for Saturday's event, which include two NEXTEL Cup practice sessions, are $35 for adults in advance, $40 at the gate. Tickets for children 6-12 are $5 and children under six get in free. (Martinsville Speedway PR)
Oct. 4, 2005:
Nevada Motorsports tax exemptions have failed to bring teams
Record purse at Lowe's
Oct. 3, 2005:
More on Dodge sponsoring the Daytona 500
Sep. 30, 2005:
Daytona officials say no plans to add Daytona 500 sponsor
Sep. 29, 2005:
More on Ferrell movie including Talladega taping and D.W.: The folks congregating for the races this weekend at Alabama's 175,000-capacity Talladega Superspeedway will have some interesting visitors on hand - Will Ferrell and company, shooting scenes for the yet-untitled Columbia comedy in which he plays a NASCAR driver named Ricky Bobby. "It's going to be fun, probably pretty rough and hectic," guesses Leslie Bibb, who's playing the highly manicured wife of Will's character. She makes it clear they're not mocking NASCAR. "The people in NASCAR are going to love the movie," she says. "They're an integral part of it. We're not spoofing them - this huge, fastest-growing sport in America. It's definitely getting their OK stamp." The flick also features John C. Reilly, Sacha Baron Cohen (Ali G), Michael Clarke Duncan, Gary Cole and a string of star cameos. (L.A. Daily) Also, Waltrip has been busy lately, working on the new Pixar film, Cars, and has committed to an upcoming film featuring Will Ferrell as a racecar driver. "Larry, Mike and I are gonna be in the Will Ferrell movie," Waltrip said, referring to his fellow truck announcers. "I’m sure we’ll be in a booth calling a race somewhere." (Bristol Herald Courier)
No lights at Dover for 2006: After another successful race weekend at Dover International Speedway, the rumor mill has again begun to turn. The construction of new light towers in the infield of Dover Downs Raceway, the harness racing track owned and operated by Dover Downs Gaming & Entertainment, Inc., have led some to believe that lights are being added to motorsports events at the one-mile concrete oval. Dover International Speedway has no plans to add lights in 2006. "There is no truth to the rumor that lights will be added in 2006 at Dover International Speedway," said Denis McGlynn, CEO and president of Dover Motorsports, Inc. The new harness track lights are currently being erected in 26 locations around the property to replace the original lights which were installed when the track opened in 1969. The installation of the lights will be completed at Dover Downs Raceway in time for the opening of the 2005-2006 season on Oct. 31, 2005. NASCAR action returns to Dover International Speedway next year for two tripleheaders in 2006 on June 2-4 and Sept. 22-24. Tickets for the June 2-4 race weekend are now on sale, and can be obtained by calling 800-441-RACE or online at www.DoverSpeedway.com. (Dover Speedway PR)
Sep. 28, 2005:
California Race Fans Raise over 200k for Hurricane Relief: In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and the need to assist our fellow Americans, race fans in Southern California bonded together to help those affected by this natural disaster. According to figures released by the American Red Cross, race fans, California Speedway and speedway partners came together to raise and estimated $200,000 to the American Red Cross Hurricane Katrina relief efforts during the course of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series SONY HD 500 on Labor Day weekend. Led by a call to action by fellow International Speedway Corporation (ISC) facility Talladega Superspeedway, California Speedway officials made plans to incorporate an American Red Cross drive for Hurricane Katrina relief efforts at the Labor Day race weekend. Booths were set up behind the grandstands at the speedway's main gates with the Inland Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross and San Bernardino County professional firefighters association members collecting monetary donations. FedEx IT also made it possible for credit card donations to be made at the gates, though these donations are not included in the final number. Saturday's NASCAR Busch Series sponsor, Ameriquest, also collected funds for the American Red Cross at their booths on the California Speedway midway. They pledged to match all monies collected at the booths. Additionally, Sony donated thousands of Ryan Newman SONY HDTV hats to be sold with 100-percent of the purchased price going to the American Red Cross. California Speedway also gave a cash donation that brought the entire weekend's total to $200,000. Many NASCAR drivers and teams pledged their support during the weekend, including Carl Edwards (winner of the Ameriquest 300), Kyle Busch (winner of the SONY HD 500) and their respective team owners who committed to donating their race winnings to the Hurricane Katrina relief efforts. (California Speedway PR)
Birmingham International Becomes Official Airport of Talladega Superspeedway
Sep. 27, 2005:
So how much does the average NASCAR fan spend on race week? The average NASCAR fan spends about $1,000 to attend a weekend of races, according to a consultant hired by International Speedway Corp. Berk & Associates of Seattle used the figure in a study aimed at persuading government officials in Washington State to subsidize a new $300 million track that ISC wants to build in Kitsap, Wash., near Bremerton, the Seattle Times reported. The report also estimates Washington would record nearly $140 million a year in new sales generated by track events, mainly from increased business at hotels and restaurants. Mike Murphy, Washington state treasurer, greeted the report with skepticism, calling its numbers "hokey." (Daytona News Journal)
Sep. 24, 2005:
NASCAR economic generator for Dover: This weekend's NASCAR events in Dover will contribute nearly $50 million to the state's economy, according to the first official state analysis. An estimated 250,000 NASCAR fans are expected to swarm Dover International Speedway this weekend, dine at local restaurants, stay in hotels and take advantage of tax-free shopping. An analysis of NASCAR weekend conducted by the state economic development office found race weekend creates nearly 1,000 temporary jobs at concession stands, parking lots and other services geared toward fans. "There is no doubt this is very important to Delware," said Judy McKinney-Cherry, director of the Delaware Economic Development Office. "Not only do we get the national exposure on television for four hours, but we also have the actual realized dollars coming in." This is the first time the state has analyzed NASCAR weekend's impact on the economy. The weekend generates about $25 million primarily from ticket sales and concession stands. Supporting businesses, such as concession stand suppliers, earn about $4 million. Restaurants, hotels and others who serve visitors gain $20 million, according to the state. (DelawareOnline.com)
Sep. 23, 2005:
Lowes to be repaved
At Dover, visit the lemonade stand: With her spiky black hair, bright blue eyes and cherubic grin, young Alexandra Scott captured the heart of a nation. Diagnosed with neuroblastoma — an aggressive childhood cancer — shortly before her first birthday, Alex endured many obstacles in her young life. Despite her pain, she remained in high spirits and at age 4 made it her mission to raise funds to fight childhood cancer by hosting a lemonade stand. Although Alex passed away last year, at age 8, her memory and her dream have lived on. Community groups across the country have set up Alex's Lemonade Stands at various events, with all proceeds benefiting the fight against childhood cancer. About 30 Wild Meadow residents will volunteer at the stand, making several gallons of Country Time Lemonade and waiting on customers. The stand will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, reopening at 4:30 p.m. after the race. Wild Meadows resident Ron August said he looks forward to working at the lemonade stand. "It's enjoyable because you know you're doing something worthwhile," he said. "And it's surprising how generous people are. Some give us money without even taking lemonade." Those who cannot make it to the lemonade stand this weekend but would like to make a donation or read Alex's story should visit www.alexslemonade.com for more information. (News Zap)
Sep. 14, 2005:
NASCAR & ISC ask court to throw out Kentucky suit: NASCAR wants a federal court to throw out Kentucky Speedway's anti-trust lawsuit on the grounds that the race track has no standing on a claim that has no merit. Kentucky Speedway, the Sparta race track that opened in 2000, is seeking to force its way onto the coveted NASCAR Nextel Cup Series circuit through an antitrust lawsuit filed in federal court in Covington in July. The track has tried unsuccessfully to attract a Nextel Cup race since it opened in 2000, and attorneys for the speedway argue that NASCAR has a monopoly on elite races that it has abused by refusing to award the track a Cup race. The lawsuit asks the court to order NASCAR to award Kentucky Speedway a Nextel Cup race in 2006 and the right to compete for a Cup race annually beginning in 2007. It also seeks $400 million in damages. In a motion filed Monday, NASCAR heaped criticism on the speedway's claim, stating that it is rife with contradictions. NASCAR said the speedway is understandably disappointed in not receiving a Nextel Cup race, but that disappointment doesn't equal to an anti-trust violation. "This fundamental defect in (Kentucky Speedway's) case - the lack of antitrust standing is the subject of this motion to dismiss," the motion charged. Stan Chesley, attorney for the speedway, said it would fight the motion. (Cincinnati.com)
Sep. 8, 2005
Kansas Speedway announces 2006 Schedule: Next year's NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series event at Kansas Speedway will continue to be one of the "Chase Races." The event is the third race in NASCAR's Chase for the Championship, the 10-race stretch that will eventually determine the series champion. The 2006 schedule comprises the track's RPM Ticket package. Tickets for the six races in 2006 are priced from $200 for the season, continuing the trend that Kansas Speedway is the best buy for a race fan's entertainment dollar, Boerger added. Qualifying dates, still to be determined, will be sold separately from the RPM Ticket. Kansas Speedway will mail ticket renewal forms for 2006 to current season ticket holders in the coming weeks. Once renewals for current ticket holders are processed, remaining seats, if any, will be sold to the general public. Kansas Speedway has sold out every season for the last five seasons. "We always encourage our guests and race fans to purchase tickets to Kansas Speedway early," he said. "Kansas Speedway is quickly becoming one of the hottest tickets in motorsports." For more information, please call, click or come by Kansas Speedway at 913.328.RACE (7223), toll free at 866.460.RACE, www.kansasspeedway.com or 400 Speedway Blvd., in Kansas City, Kan. (Kansas Speedway PR)
Sep. 7, 2005
Fans have a chance around Darlington, "Laps for Relief"
Dover Tickets moving fast: NASCAR is beginning to flex its muscle again in Delaware, as officials at Dover International Speedway said ticket sales for the upcoming Sept. 23-25 race weekend are moving at a rapid pace. NASCAR also ensured that Dover would retain its traditional June and September race dates when it unveiled its 2006 schedule. Next year, the Nextel Cup Series will visit Dover on June 2-4 and Sept. 22-24 as part of its 36-race schedule. That is all good news for Denis McGlynn, president and CEO of Dover's race track, who said the track has remained in a non-growth holding pattern since the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. Dover had increased its grandstand seating from 22,000 in 1985 to 140,000 in 2001 -- a period that encompassed 17 consecutive years. Now, after three straight years of remaining level, ticket sales are spiking again. "Ticket sales are moving a bit faster than they were last year," McGlynn said. "We're happy with the pace. We're moving slightly ahead of last year. "Whenever you can grow, you've got to be happy." Officials at Dover are thrilled with the recent surge in ticket sales for this month's race, especially in the midst of record high gas prices and the effects of Hurricane Katrina. (Delaware Online)
Talladega to donate $100,000 in relief
Las Vegas Tickets on Sale Monday
Sep. 5, 2005
NASCAR and California fans raise 180K for Relief: As NASCAR roared into Southern California for the SONY HD 500 at California Speedway, race fans geared up to help the American Red Cross Hurricane Katrina relief efforts. Over the course of Labor Day weekend more than $180,000 was raised. Collections at the speedway’s main grandstands and infield camping areas totaled more than $70,000. Ameriquest's total collections at their booths were nearly $40,000 and they also committed an additional $70,000 in matching funds. The total collection amount does not include the following, all of which will be reconciled later this week. Starbucks, which donated the hourly rate of their volunteers who came to work Collections made at the Stater Bros. Infield Express Sony’s hat sale made on California Speedway’s midway (CupScene)
Sep. 3, 2005
Richmond announces 2006 dates: Richmond International Raceway President Doug Fritz today announced today the track’s exciting race lineup for 2006. The season begins with a doubleheader that includes a NASCAR Busch Series race on Friday, May 5 and a NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series race on Saturday, May 6. The IRL IndyCar Series returns for its sixth annual visit for the SunTrust Indy Challenge on Saturday, June 24. Also part of that all open-wheel weekend will be a USAC Valvoline National Sprint Car Series race on Friday, June 23 and a USAC Weld Racing Silver Crown Series race on Saturday prior to the SunTrust Indy Challenge. The season concludes with a new look for the track’s September weekend. The schedule will mirror the track’s May schedule of events, as the NASCAR Busch Series will race on Friday, September 8 and NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series will conclude the season schedule on Saturday, September 9. The track will not host a NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race in 2006, as the traditional Thursday night event will move to Saturday, October 7 at Talladega Superspeedway-also part of International Speedway Corporation’s portfolio of tracks. The inaugural NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race at Talladega Superspeedway will be part of tripleheader weekend at that track, including NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series and ARCA races. (RIR PR)
Sep. 2, 2005
California Speedway to collect donations: California Speedway and San Bernardino County Fire are teaming up to raise money during the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series event at the speedway this weekend to benefit the American Red Cross relief efforts for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. This "Race for Relief" effort will replace the "Fill the Boot" drive which was originally scheduled for this weekend to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association. California Speedway and San Bernardino County Fire have agreed to move the "Fill the Boot" drive to the February NASCAR race weekend at California Speedway in 2006. Donations of cash or check can be made at the following Gate Entrances at California Speedway: Gates 10, 12, 14 and 16. Firefighters from throughout San Bernardino County, along with the Inland Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross volunteers, will be collecting at the gates. For additional information, please contact the Inland Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross at 909-986-6651. (California Speedway PR)
Talladega leads effort at ISC tracks for Hurricane Katrina
