The Atlanta Motor Speedway is a premier motorsports facility located in Hampton, Georgia. It is a 1.5-mile quad-oval track that has been hosting NASCAR races since 1960. With its high speeds, multiple racing grooves, and historic significance, the Atlanta Motor Speedway is a fan favorite and a must-visit destination for any NASCAR fan. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the Atlanta Motor Speedway, its history, and what makes it one of the best tracks on the NASCAR circuit.
History of the Atlanta Motor Speedway
The Atlanta Motor Speedway was built in 1960 by the late Bruton Smith, a racing promoter and entrepreneur. The track was originally a 1.5-mile oval that hosted its first NASCAR Cup Series race that same year. The race was won by Fireball Roberts, who would go on to win the first Cup Series race at the track.
Over the years, the Atlanta Motor Speedway has undergone several renovations and upgrades to make it one of the premier racing facilities in the country. In 1997, the track was reconfigured into a quad-oval, adding banking to the corners and allowing for higher speeds. The track also added a new garage area and grandstands, as well as a state-of-the-art scoring tower.
Races at the Atlanta Motor Speedway
The Atlanta Motor Speedway hosts several NASCAR races each year, including two Cup Series races, one Xfinity Series race, and one Camping World Truck Series race. The track’s first Cup Series race of the year is held in March and is known as the Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500. The second Cup Series race is held in July and is known as the Quaker State 400.
The Xfinity Series race at the Atlanta Motor Speedway is held in March and is known as the EchoPark 250. The Camping World Truck Series race is held in March as well and is known as the Fr8Auctions 200.
What Makes the Atlanta Motor Speedway Special
The Atlanta Motor Speedway is a unique track that offers several features that make it special. One of the key features of the track is its high speeds. With the addition of banking to the corners, drivers are able to maintain higher speeds throughout the race, leading to more intense and exciting racing.
Another feature that sets the Atlanta Motor Speedway apart is its multiple racing grooves. Drivers are able to choose different lines around the track, allowing for side-by-side racing and multiple passing opportunities. This makes for some of the most exciting and unpredictable racing on the NASCAR circuit.
In addition to its on-track features, the Atlanta Motor Speedway also offers a great fan experience. The track has several grandstands that offer great views of the racing action, as well as a variety of food and beverage options. The track also hosts several fan events throughout the race weekend, including driver autograph sessions and fan Q&A sessions.
Conclusion
The Atlanta Motor Speedway is one of the premier racing facilities in the country, and for good reason. With its high speeds, multiple racing grooves, and exciting racing action, the track offers a unique and thrilling experience for fans and drivers alike. Whether you’re a die-hard NASCAR fan or just looking for a fun and exciting day out, the Atlanta Motor Speedway is definitely worth a visit.
