Iowa Speedway ownership dispute: Last summer’s ownership change at Iowa Speedway in Newton has sparked a still-escalating court battle between two Iowa families, with charges in each direction involving unpaid bills and contractual breaches. Jasper County court papers allege that Manaco Corp. and Manatt’s Inc., corporate arms of the family that built Newton’s racetrack, stiffed the new buyers for more than $1.8 million in unpaid bills when the speedway changed hands last June. The new owners, a corporation formed by members of the Clement family, say they in turn have been accused of defaulting on the deal because they held back on scheduled payments to the Manatt family because of the unpaid bills. Documents say the Manatts have threatened to file their own lawsuit against Conrad Clement, the founder of Featherlite Corp., a since-sold Cresco company that makes trailers, and three of his relatives if the Manatts aren’t paid in full within 10 days. The latest version of the lawsuit, a 64-page document filed this week by Des Moines attorney Scott Brennan, alleges that the Clements were stuck with nearly $1.85 million in unpaid bills after the speedway changed hands on June 30, 2011 – despite a provision in the purchase contract that required the Manatts to pay any outstanding debts. To compensate, the new owners (who financed some of the $19 million purchase with loans from Manaco) paid only $152,588.37 as part of the scheduled payoff of a $2 million loan that was due Dec. 31. The lawsuit does not involve Rusty Wallace, who continues to own roughly 8% of the speedway.(more at the Des Moines Register)(2-11-2012)

Phoenix honorary pace car driver named: UFC bantamweight champion Dominick Cruz will be among the headline attractions during the Subway Fresh Fit 500 on Sunday, March 4 at Phoenix International Raceway. It was announced by track President Bryan R. Sperber, that Cruz was named Honorary Pace Car Driver for the race. “Dominick is a true Arizona success story and we are proud of the style and class with which he represents our entire region,” said Sperber. “We are excited to have him headline the weekend activities that kickoff the start of the 2012 NASCAR season at PIR.” Born and raised in Tucson, Arizona, Cruz, 26, has ascended to the top of his profession, compiling a 19-1-0 professional record that includes wins over the likes of Demetrious Johnson, Urijah Faber, Scott Jorgensen, Joseph Benavidez and Brian Bowles. Cruz and Faber will face each other as opposing coaches in the upcoming season of “The Ultimate Fighter Live” premiering on FX before squaring off in the Octagon® for the third time following the program’s season finale. Cruz will participate in pre-race ceremonies and will make appearances onsite at PIR on Sunday, March 4. Additional information on race weekend activities is available on Phoenix International Raceway’s official website at www.phoenixraceway.com.(PIR)(2-11-2012)

New Ticket Operations Manager named at Infineon Raceway: Michael Re has been named Ticket Operations Manager at Infineon Raceway, raceway officials announced. Re, who has more than 25 years of ticketing experience, will manage and oversee all aspects of ticket operations and services, including policies and procedures related to ticket sales, pricing and allocation. He will also coordinate accounting procedures on behalf of the ticketing department, oversee the maintenance of the ticketing system and will oversee customer service functions. Some of Re’s most noted accomplishments include working as the Director of Ticket Operations for the Oakland A’s during the 1987 All Star Game and 1989 World Series. Re currently resides in San Ramon.(Infineon Raceway)(2-11-2012)

Lenny Kravitz to perform the Daytona 500 Pre-Race Show: Rock superstar Lenny Kravitz will perform the Daytona 500 Pre-Race Show, the pre-race extravaganza leading up to the start of “The Great American Race” at Daytona International Speedway on Sunday, Feb. 26. Kravitz, who has sold more than 35 million albums and is the only musician in history to win the Grammy for best male vocals in rock music four times consecutively, will perform three songs prior to the start of the 54th annual Daytona 500 – the season-opening event to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and the biggest stock car race in the world. All race fans that purchase a Pre-Race/Sprint FANZONE access pass for the Daytona 500 will be able to view Kravitz’s Daytona 500 Pre-Race Show, as well as driver introductions, from the grass tri-oval area. Kravitz joins a long list of star-studded names that have performed in the Daytona 500 Pre-Race Show including Tim McGraw, Keith Urban, Bon Jovi, Kelly Clarkson, Mariah Carey and Brad Paisley. In addition to his Daytona 500 Pre-Race Concert, a special ticket package designed around Kravitz has been created that includes a Daytona 500 ticket, Pre-Race/Sprint FANZONE access and VIP area access to Kravitz’s performance. Packages start at $164. For more information on tickets for the 54th annual Daytona 500 and Sprint FANZONE/Pre-Race access, race fans can go online at daytonainternationalspeedway.com or call 1-800-PITSHOP.(Daytona International Speedway)(2-10-2012)

Tickets to Talladega Superspeedway race on sale: The start of the NASCAR season is just around the corner and now is the time to secure tickets for the fastest and most competitive show on the schedule. Tickets for the 2012 Aaron’s Dream Weekend go on sale to the public Saturday, February 11th. This action-packed weekend that runs May 4 - 6 includes the ARCA Racing Series 250 on Friday, the Aaron’s 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series race on Saturday, and the feature presentation, the Aaron’s 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with the largest infield party in NASCAR. Two-day tickets start at just $49 in the Allison Grandstands. And as always, free camping is available so there’s no reason to miss a minute of the action. Secure your tickets at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or by calling 877-Go2-DEGA.(Talladega Superspeedway)(2-10-2012)

Sinise To Help Martinsville Area Soldier Build House: Award-winning actor and humanitarian Gary Sinise is going to make sure Cpl. J.B. Kerns’ dream of a log cabin on the Ararat River becomes a reality. Sinise announced that the Gary Sinise Foundation and The Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation (named after the NY firefighter who perished on 9/11), are partnering as part of their Building For America’s Bravest program to build a “smart home” for Kerns that will allow him to live independently.
Kerns lost both legs and his right arm last April as a result of a blast from an improvised explosive device (IED) while on his third tour of duty in Afghanistan. The heroic Marine, who’s had to undergo dozens of surgeries, is from Ararat—a small, rural town in Patrick County, about 30 miles from Martinsville Speedway.
The fundraising centerpiece for the project will be a concert performed by Sinise and his Lt. Dan Band at Martinsville High School on Saturday, March 31, at 7 p.m, and 100% of the ticket sales will go toward funding the specially-equipped smart home for Kerns. The next day, at the running of the Goody’s Fast Relief 500 at Martinsville Speedway, Sinise and Kerns will play a special role in the Speedway’s pre-race program. General admission to the Martinsville concert will be $25. There will also be a limited number of VIP passes available, which include a ticket to the Goody’s Fast Relief 500 and a Sunday morning meet-and-greet with Sinise at Martinsville Speedway.(more info at Martinsville Speedway)(2-10-2012)

The Three Stooges Co-Stars Named Grand Marshals for the Daytona 500: As Grand Marshals, co-stars from the new Three Stooges movie Jane Lynch and Kate Upton will deliver the four most famous words in motorsports – “Drivers, start your engines.” Sean Hayes, Chris Diamantopoulos, and Will Sasso -- starring as Larry, Moe & Curly – in the all new The Three Stooges movie from Twentieth Century Fox, will start the action by delivering the green flag at the Daytona 500.
“We look forward to Jane and Kate’s participation in the pre-race ceremonies, adding to the star power of NASCAR’s biggest and richest race of the year,” Daytona International Speedway President Joie Chitwood III said. “Also, the thousands of race fans in attendance and the millions more watching on FOX Sports are eagerly waiting to experience ‘Stoogemania,’ when The Three Stooges deliver the green flag”
In The Three Stooges, which hits theaters everywhere April 13, 2012, newborns Larry, Moe and Curly are left on the doorstep of an orphanage run by nuns. The boys grow up finger-poking, nyuk-nyuk-nyuking and woo-woo-wooing their way to uncharted levels of knuckleheaded misadventure. Out to save their childhood home, only The Three Stooges could become embroiled in an oddball murder plot…while stumbling into starring in a phenomenally successful TV reality show. Earl Benjamin, President and CEO of C3 Entertainment, Inc. (The Three Stooges brand owner) and Executive Producer of the new movie, said “The Three Stooges as a part of the Daytona 500 gives both comedy and racing fans a truly unique blend of two of America’s most enduring cultural icons – The greatest comedy team of all time and the aptly named The Great American Race. Tickets for Speedweeks 2012 events, including the 54th annual Daytona 500, are available online at daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.(DIS)(2-8-2012)

WWE's John Cena to serves as Honorary Starter of Daytona 500: WWE Superstar John Cena will wave the green flag as Honorary Starter of the 54th annual Daytona 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, Feb. 26 at historic Daytona International Speedway. Cena was invited to participate in this year’s big race by 2011 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series runner-up Carl Edwards last night on WWE’s Monday Night Raw. Edwards got out of his official #99 Fastenal Ford and told Cena, “NASCAR asked me to come to Monday Night Raw and personally invite you to drop the green flag and officially start the Daytona 500 on February 26.” An appreciative John Cena enthusiastically accepted with an emphatic “Yes!” Cena, who made his WWE debut in 2002, is a ten-time World Champion. He can be seen each week on the hit cable series Monday Night Raw on USA Network. The avid NASCAR fan will headline WrestleMania against The Rock® at Sun Life Stadium in Miami on Sunday, April 1, 2012. Cena, like many NASCAR drivers, has a long standing relationship with the Make-A-Wish Foundation. He is on pace to grant his 300th wish, making him the first celebrity wish granter ever to reach that lofty goal. The Make-A-Wish Foundation recently dedicated a room to WWE at the foundation’s headquarters in Phoenix, AZ, in honor of Cena’s unwavering dedication to children with life-threatening medical conditions. Past Honorary Starters for the Daytona 500 include NASCAR Hall of Famers Bobby Allison and Richard Petty, actor Ashton Kutcher, comedian Whoopi Goldberg and singer Mariah Carey. Tickets for Speedweeks 2012 events, including the 54th annual Daytona 500, are available online at daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.(DIS)(2-7-2012)

Ride Metrolink Trains to Auto Club 400: Race fans looking for a stress-free, convenient and affordable way to get to Auto Club Speedway’s Auto Club 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race need not look any further! Auto Club Speedway has partnered with Metrolink to provide direct train service to the Auto Club 400 on Sunday, March 25 at Auto Club Speedway. “Auto Club Speedway and Metrolink are excited to team together to provide race fans an affordable and convenient transportation option to the Auto Club 400 in March,” said Speedway President Gillian Zucker. “In this economy everybody likes a bargain. For our race fans, there aren’t many better than this one.” Metrolink will operate three charter trains originating from Oxnard, Lancaster and Oceanside with limited stops in between for faster service. Metrolink’s Speedway trains stop at a specially constructed station just off the back straight-away at the race track. From there, passengers will board a free tram that takes them to the entrance gates. Trains depart Auto Club Speedway one hour after the end of the race, or checkered flag. More details about train routes, stops included, tickets and approved carry-in items, go to: at autoclubspeedway.com.(Auto Club Speedway)(2-7-2012)

Martinsville Speedway Will Mark 65th Anniversary: When Martinsville Speedway opened in 1947, bread was 13 cents a loaf and a gallon of gas was just 15 cents. A postage stamp was three cents, The Diary of Anne Frank had just been published, the Miracle on 34th Street was the big draw at the movies and Harry Truman lived in the White House. As it celebrates its 65th anniversary, the world is vastly different from when Martinsville Speedway founder H. Clay Earles first opened the doors on September 7, 1947. But even with all the change that 65 years brings, some of Earles’ basic philosophies remain, in fact are the reason the historic oval has not only survived, but thrived. “My grandfather often said a working man or woman deserved to get what they paid for and that’s always been our philosophy here,” said W. Clay Campbell, president of Martinsville Speedway and Earles’ grandson. “I think that has been the key to our success over the years. We have always worked hard to take care of the fans.” Fans will be the focus of Martinsville Speedway’s year-long 65th anniversary celebration which will include special ticket offers, interactive social media campaigns and web promotions, special commemorative merchandise and collectible items. The anniversary year will culminate with a grand pre-race celebration before the TUMS Fast Relief 500 on October 28 when the speedway will host many of the old time drivers who raced here for interaction with fans. Martinsville is a year older than NASCAR and is the only track that remains on the NASCAR Sprint Cup schedule from its inaugural season in 1949. The historic half-mile has grown and progressed with the sport, offering up fan amenities that rival any sporting venue in the country. It kicks of its 65th year of racing action with the Goody’s Fast Relief 500 weekend March 30-April 1. Other than its fan philosophy, the only thing that hasn’t changed at Martinsville Speedway is the shape of the track itself. The unique paperclip shape with long straights and tight turns consistently produces exciting, action-packed racing. Racing returns to Martinsville Speedway March 30-April 1 with the Goody’s Fast Relief 500 weekend. Tickets for both events are on sale and may be purchased by calling 877.RACE.TIX or online at www.martinsvillespeedway.com.(Martinsville Speedway)(2-7-2012)

Michigan race tickets on sale: Michigan International Speedway tickets are finally on sale. he opening NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at MIS is on Father's Day June 17; and Pure Michigan 400 is on August 19. Both feature some of the most affordable ticket prices in the country. In fact, the last time ticket prices at MIS were this low was in 1998 when Jeff Gordon won his third of four NASCAR championships and 13 races. MIS offers NASCAR Sprint Cup Series tickets for every budget. Tickets start at $25. Kids 12 and under are free in some sections, while junior pricing for 17 and under are half price in reserved seats. Prices on other events such as the NASCAR Nationwide Series Alliance Truck Parts 250 on June 16 and NASCAR Camping World Truck Series VFW 200 on Aug. 18 have also remained low for 2012 at $25 and $20, respectively. Additionally, MIS' continuous commitment to its fans in the form of improved fan amenities, like larger seats, paved tram routes and exclusive MISCamping.com APEX, the speedway's new campground, are more of the improvements the speedway has on tap for 2012.(Michigan Speedway)(2-6-2012)

Highland Rim Speedway sold after Hamilton declares bankruptcy: Tennessee's HighlandRim Speedway was sold at public auction Friday, after promoter Bobby Hamilton,Jr., filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy last month. Hamilton operated both Highland Rim and the historic Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway in 2011, but struggled to pay his bills. The former NASCAR Sprint Cup and Nationwide Series driver reportedly bounced a pair of checks to the Nashville Fairgrounds Board late last season, and was forced to cancel the track's traditional season finale, the All-American 400. A foreclosure auction took place Friday at the county courthouse in Springfield, with Community Bank and Trust placing the only bid of $605,000. Equipment and other speedway assets will reportedly be sold separately at a later date. Highland Rim Speedway is situated on two adjacent tracts of land totaling approximately 30acres. The track was scheduled to open next month for its 50th anniversary season, but longtime track announcer Lanny Adams told The Tennessean newspaper that the future of the speedway is now in doubt.(Sirius Speedway)(2-6-2012)

Company disputes number of Kentucky parking attendants: The company hired to direct parking at Kentucky Speedway's inaugural NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race last summer disputes track owner Bruton Smith's recent assertion that hundreds of attendants failed to show up for work on race day. The head of Brantley Security Services' event management division claims the company had more attendants on the speedway grounds July 9 than it was obligated to provide. Smith and Kentucky Speedway general manager Mark Simendinger gave a presentation during last week's NASCAR media tour in North Carolina detailing steps being taken to expand parking and improve infrastructure around the Sparta, Ky., track before this year's Quaker State 400. "The company that Mark had dealt with as far as the number of parkers, we contracted for 300. Eighty-four showed up," Smith said during his opening remarks Jan. 25. A Nashville lawyer whose firm represents Brantley Security challenged those figures in a letter sent to The Enquirer. Jeremy Curran, president of Brantley Security's event management division, supported attorney David L. Johnson's claim that Brantley contracted with the speedway to provide 96 attendants for the Quaker State 400 and, in fact, had 112 show up on race day. A copy of a signed contract between Brantley Services and Kentucky Speedway does not specify the number of attendants Brantley was requested to provide on July 9. Curran provided a spreadsheet detailing Brantley's parking plan for the day that shows 10 supervisors, 30 directors and 56 parkers. Curran claims Kentucky Speedway asked for more parking attendants for the 2009 Nationwide Series race than it did for the inaugural Sprint Cup Series race in July.(Cincinnati Enquirer)(2-5-2012)

Casino opens at Kansas Speedway: The ownership of Kansas Speedway is gambling on a new casino overlooking Turn 2 to generate interest, drive ticket sales and increase revenue during a sluggish time for motorsports. The Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway officially opened Friday. Long lines of cars snaked out of the parking lots and along the roads running parallel to the backstretch of the track. The $411 million casino is a partnership between Penn National Gaming and International Speedway Corp., which owns and operates the speedway. The casino has about 1,000 full-time employees, 95,000 square feet of gaming, and is expected to attract 4 million guests annually with an estimated economic impact of $200 million a year. It also should boost interest in the two race weekends at Kansas Speedway, the first in April and the second in October.(Associated Press/ESPN.com)(2-4-2012)

Auto Club Speedway offers Valentine's Day ticket special: It's a Valentine's Day gift that both of you will love, spending time together at the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Auto Club 400 race at Auto Club Speedway on Sunday, March 25. Whether you and your loved one are sitting side by side watching 43 of the world's best drivers battle for a trip to Gatorade Victory Lane; taking a stroll down pit road where race teams are getting ready for the big race; positioned front and center of the pre-race stage for driver introductions or listening to your favorite drivers talk with their crew chiefs on the scanner… It will be a memorable experience that you'll have together. The Valentine's Day ticket package is an incredible deal for just $99 (a $225 value) and includes: a pair of tickets to the Auto Club 400 (rows 1-14) on Sunday, March 25; a pair of Pre-Race Pit Passes; and Scanner Rental with a pair of headphones In addition to the Valentine's Day ticket package, Auto Club Speedway offers free parking and allows fans to bring in their own food, making race weekend an incredible value full of fun and entertainment. The Valentine's Day ticket package is available now through February 14, while supplies last. So don't let this package get away. For more information or to purchase tickets call 800-944-RACE (7223), log on to www.autoclubspeedway.com or visit the Auto Club Speedway Ticket Office.(ACS)(2-3-2012)

Daytona 500 will have purse of more than $19 Million: The 54th annual Daytona 500 on Sunday, Feb. 26 will carry a record purse of more than $19 million as well as a new contingency award that will payout $200,000 to the driver leading at the completion of Lap 100. The posted awards for "The Great American Race" are $19,142,601 with the winner collecting a minimum of $1,431,325. The second, third, fourth and fifth-place finishers in the Daytona 500 will receive a minimum of $1,050,075, $759,600, $609,900 and $486,550. The Daytona 500 Mid-Race Leader Award will reward the driver leading the midway point of the historic 200-lap, 500-mile race with a $200,000 bonus. If the race is under caution at Lap 100, the leader of the race at the completion of the fifth consecutive green flag lap following the caution will receive the award.(DIS)(2-2-2012)

Kentucky tickets on sale Feb. 8; Fans can now carry in coolers: Kentucky Speedway will place single race tickets for its five NASCAR races including the June 30 Sprint Cup Series "Quaker State 400" on sale Feb. 8 at 9:00 a.m., and allow customers to carry coolers in to all events for the first time in speedway history. Single race ticket prices for five NASCAR events scheduled June 28-30 and Sept. 21-22 will not increase. NASCAR Sprint Cup Series "Quaker State 400" tickets range from $75 to $110 and NASCAR Nationwide Series race tickets range from $45 to $75 based on seat location. All NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race tickets are $30 or $40 for reserved seats. Customers can purchase tickets at www.kentuckyspeedway.com, 888-652-7223 and through speedway offices at 1 Speedway Drive in Sparta, Ky., 41086, just off Interstate 71 Exit 57 and Ky. State Highway 35. Coolers will be limited in size to 14 inches by 14 inches by 14 inches. Customers will be able to carry in snacks, unopened soft drinks and water to enjoy during events. Kentucky law prohibits alcoholic beverages of any kind to be carried through the speedway gates.(Kentucky Speedway)(2-2-2012)

Jepson promoted to Communications Manager of Phoenix: Phoenix International Raceway announced the promotion of Jennifer Jepson to Communications Manager. In her new role, Jepson will manage daily operations in all areas for the company's communications department. Jepson joins recently hired Director of Communications, Dave Lockett, who joined Phoenix international Raceway earlier this year. Jepson originally joined the company in 2011 as Client Relations Coordinator in the sales & marketing department where she helped manage the activation of all corporate sponsorships. Raised in Phoenix, AZ., Jepson graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and Mass Communication.(PIR)(2-1-2012)

Checkered Flag Run at Phoenix March 2-3: Race fans and motorcycle enthusiasts will celebrate diversity during the 2nd Annual Checkered Flag Run to Phoenix International Raceway's NASCAR Weekend on March 2-3. The exciting two-day event will include a ride to Phoenix International Raceway and an opportunity to enjoy the Bashas' Supermarkets 200 NASCAR Nationwide Series Race. The largest multicultural motorcycle gathering at NASCAR, The Checkered Flag Run will launch with a kickoff reception featuring live entertainment on Friday, March 2 from 6-10 p.m. at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino in Chandler, AZ. Saturday, March 3 will begin with a ride to Phoenix International Raceway to enjoy the Bashas' Supermarkets 200 NASCAR Nationwide Series Race. Riders will start from three separate locations, including Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, Radisson Hotel Phoenix Airport and Radisson Hotel Phoenix Chandler, and will arrive at the Phoenix International Raceway by 9 a.m. Tickets to the 2012 Checkered Flag Run can be purchased for $25 until March 1 by calling 1-866-498-RACE (7223) or through www.checkeredflagrun.com.(PIR)(1-31-2012)

Speedway official: Judge overturned jury verdict: A Superior Court judge has overturned a jury verdict that would have forced New Hampshire Motor Speedway to pay nearly $1 million in damages to the Motor Racing Network Inc., according to the speedway's general manager. "We really feel like we went through the legal system and that justice was done," Jerry Gappens, who also is the speedway's executive vice president, said Thursday night. In late September, a Merrimack County Superior Court ordered the speedway to pay Motor Racing Network $993,724 in damages for an alleged termination of a broadcasting agreement without three years' notice. Judge Richard B. McNamara had ruled prior to the trial that the agreement between the parties was not an enforceable contract, but allowed the case to go to trial solely on the issue of whether New Hampshire Speedway made a promise to Motor Racing Network, that the radio broadcaster relied on that promise and incurred damages as a result of its being broken. The speedway immediately appealed the jury's verdict to McNamara; on Thursday he reversed it, Gappens said. "I was stunned in September. I walked out of the courtroom in disbelief," he said. "I wasn't surprised today, but I'm certainly very pleased." According to court records, Motor Racing Network broadcast races at the speedway from approximately 1990 through 2008. Speedway Motorsports Inc. bought the track in January 2008 and replaced Motor Racing Network with its own radio network, Performance Racing Network, according to court records.(New Hampshire Union Leader)(1-28-2012)

Kentucky Speedway Infrastructure Improvements Outlined: Kentucky Speedway officials presented national reporters an overview of infrastructure projects in progress at the 107,000-capacity Sparta, Ky., facility during the annual NASCAR preseason media tour today. Outlined projects will be complete before Kentucky Speedway opens its five-race 2012 schedule with a NASCAR tripleheader weekend featuring the Sprint Cup Series “Quaker State 400,” Nationwide Series “Feed The Children 300,” and Camping World Truck Series “UNOH 225” June 28-30. The speedway will play host to a second 300-mile NASCAR Nationwide Series event on Sept. 22 and a 225-mile NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race on Sept. 21.
This season, Kentucky Speedway will feature:
Expanded Parking: Kentucky Speedway purchased two large land parcels adjacent to the north side of Kentucky Highway 35 which will be converted to expansive new parking fields. Kentucky Speedway also repurposed portions of its original acreage for additional parking.
Easier Facility Access: The state of Kentucky has committed to widening the Interstate 71 exit ramp at Ky. 35, widening Ky. 35 to seven lanes at points where it services the speedway and constructing a pedestrian tunnel which will safely connect new parking fields to the Kentucky Speedway grounds.
A New Traffic Plan: Kentucky Speedway will execute a new pedestrian and automotive traffic plan.
Infrastructure Improvements: Kentucky Speedway will construct and overpass to its infield tunnel road that will separate tram traffic and infield traffic. The speedway also will expand restrooms.
Improved Campsites: Expanded campgrounds will feature enhanced campsites, many with access to electric service.
"We want the chance to prove ourselves. You'll see when you come back, all the improvements," Speedway Motorsports, Inc. (SMI) Chairman and CEO Bruton Smith said. Five-race season ticket plans, a three-race June Weekend Ticket Package that includes a 1:24 scale Dale Earnhardt, Jr., die-cast collectible along with season and weekend campsites are available now at 859-578-2300, by going to Kentuckyspeedway.com, the Kentucky Speedway corporate offices at 1 Speedway Drive, Sparta, Ky., 41806 off of Interstate 71 Exit 57 and state Highway 35.(Kentucky Speedway)(1-26-2012)

Dr. Joseph Mattioli, Pocono Raceway Patriarch, Passes: Dr. Joseph Mattioli, Pocono Raceway Founder and Chairman of the Board, passed away today at the Lehigh Valley Hospital Center, surrounded by his loving family, following a lengthy illness. He was 86. “Doc” as he was known to friends and associates, was one of the most respected and admired men in automobile racing. He founded Pocono Raceway in the early 1960’s and has been at the helm of Pocono ever since. Under his leadership, the track grew in stature and has hosted 68 very successful NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Events. His passion and drive helped Pocono Raceway succeed when other tracks fell by the wayside. Pocono Raceway is the only remaining family owned and run track on the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series schedule. He was always concerned that race fans and race car drivers and their families were treated with the upmost respect and constantly upgraded procedures and Raceway facilities to meet that goal.
He kept his fingers on the pulse of stock car racing and read everything printed concerning the sport. He was in the office daily, until last fall, and oversaw all aspects of the Pocono Raceway operations. At age 83, Dr. Mattioli spearheaded an ambitious solar energy project. He built a three megawatt photovoltaic solar energy system on 25 acres at Pocono Raceway. It is the world’s largest solar-powered sports facility, making Pocono Raceway a leader in the renewable energy and environmental fields.
Dr. Mattioli was also well respected in the community. In 2009, he received the Philanthropic Lifetime Achievement Award presented by the Association of Fundraising Professionals for his generous and continuous contributions to local civic organizations, hospitals, schools and charities. He served on the board of directors of numerous organizations and was dedicated to improving the quality of life in Northeastern Pennsylvania.
He served in the Pacific during World War Two as a Navy medic. Using the G.I. bill, he enrolled in the dentistry program at Temple University (where he met his soon to be wife, Rose.) Upon graduation, he developed his dental practice into a very lucrative business by working 12 to 14 hour days, six and sometimes seven days a week. He then began investing in and developing properties in Philadelphia and Northeastern Pennsylvania where he became involved in the start up of Pocono Raceway.
Dr. Mattioli is survived by his wife of 63 years, Dr. Rose, daughters Louie and Michele and son Joseph Mattioli III, seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. His passing leaves a void in the NASCAR community and especially to his family and extended “Pocono Raceway” family. Service Arrangements for Dr. Joseph Mattioli are incomplete at this time.(Pocono Raceway)(1-26-2012)

Latest on a track in Minnesota: Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton says even if a new Minnesota Vikings stadium is not built in Arden Hills, he is still interested in cleaning up the old Army munitions site. So how might the site be developed? Sources tell 5 EYEWITNESS News a $300 million NASCAR motor-sports complex is being discussed. Ramsey County Commissioner Tony Bennett confirms commissioners have had meetings with NASCAR backers. Bennett also says several entities have shown interest in building casinos on the property. Despite all the interest, the county and the Vikings still prefer to build a stadium on the site.(KSTP.com), see past news about proposed race tracks in Minnesota on the Proposed Minnesota Tracks page.(1-25-2012)

Blake Shelton to Perform Pre-Race Concert at All-Star Race: Blake Shelton, three-time Grammy nominee, CMA’s reigning Male Vocalist of the Year and a coach on NBC’s “The Voice,” will perform a pre-race concert for the 2012 NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race, May 19, at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Presented by Target, the concert will take place in the infield between Turns 1 and 2. Admission to the show is free with the purchase of a ticket to the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race. Fans can purchase a special Golden Ticket upgrade for just $20 to secure a prime location with special access to a reserved area directly in front of the stage. Charlotte Motor Speedway Season Ticket holders will have first opportunity to purchase the upgrade before it opens to the public on Wednesday, Jan. 25, at noon. Approximately 2,000 Golden Tickets are available and can be purchased online at www.charlottemotorspeedway.com or by calling the speedway ticket office at 1-800-455-FANS (3267). In February, Shelton will perform a duet of “America the Beautiful” with his wife, Grammy award-winning artist, Miranda Lambert, at Super Bowl XLVI.(CMS)(1-25-2012)

Las Vegas race fans can get a free night of lodging at the Stratosphere: Las Vegas is a city known for its "comps" and "dealmaking" and the Stratosphere Las Vegas has an incredible offer for race fans. With the Buy Two and Get One Free promotion, anyone who buys weekend tickets for the March 9-11 NASCAR Weekend at Las Vegas Motor Speedway will get one night of a three-night hotel stay paid for by Stratosphere in addition to many other benefits. The Stratosphere will be sponsoring its second annual Pole Day qualifying on March 9 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Pole Day kicks off the three-day weekend that includes the Kobalt Tools 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. The free night's lodging is just the beginning of the perks Stratosphere is offering race fans. Race fans taking part in this offer will receive free access throughout the race weekend to the 113-story Stratosphere Tower, one free entry into a Speedway of Cash slot tournament being held during race week, two-for-one tickets to the stage show BITE, $10 off tickets to headliner Frankie Moreno Live at Stratosphere and discounts in the salon and spa. Beginning today, any race fan who purchases a weekend package to the NASCAR Weekend in either the Petty or Earnhardt Terraces at LVMS is eligible for the free night at the hotel. In addition to the tickets, the Stratosphere package is $299 and includes the lodging as well as the other amenities. Race fans can choose to stay either Thursday-Saturday or Friday-Monday. To take advantage of this offer, please call the LVMS ticket office at 1-800-644-4444. This offer is only available over the phone and will be in place as long as rooms remain available.(LVMS)(1-25-2012)

Richmond partners with local advertising agency: What better way to support the "Buy Local" initiative than to do it yourself? In the spirit of buying local, Richmond International Raceway president Dennis Bickmeier announced a partnership with local advertising agency Barber Martin. A 24-year-old shop located in metro Richmond, Barber Martin is a full-service agency that oversees the advertising platform for a wide variety of Richmond based companies, including Adolf Jewelers, West Broad Honda, Wealthcare Capital Management, VCU School of Business, Chesterfield Auto Parts, Capitol Region Airport Commission, and Southern States Cooperative. The Barber Martin team will assist RIR with print, television, radio and out-of-home messaging and promotions for the 2012 season.(RIR)(1-24-2012)

Ultimate Access, Value with Track Pass for 2012 Race Season at Infineon Raceway: Race fans who have dreamed about taking a heart-pounding lap around the Infineon Raceway road course or getting a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the stars of NASCAR during the Toyota/Save Mart 350 can make those dreams a reality in 2012. If all-access and value is what you crave, then Infineon Raceway's 2012 Track Pass is the ticket package for you. You'll secure the best seats for all seven major events during the 2012 Big O Tires Racing Season, including NASCAR (June 22-24), NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing (July 27-29), IZOD IndyCar Series (Aug. 24-26), the U.S. debut of the FIA World Touring Car Championship (Sept. 21-23), motorcycles, historic car racing and more. The Track Pass is valued at more than $1,000, but the raceway is selling them for just $425. That's a savings of more than 50-percent.(Infineon Raceway)(1-23-2012)

Bristol going green with Danica for St. Pats Day: Bristol Motor Speedway is "Going Green" in a big way with Go Daddy Girl Danica Patrick during a special St. Patrick's Day celebration for the Nationwide Series event March 17. Breaking a long-standing tradition of eschewing green, once a much-maligned hue in the NASCAR garage, the World's Fastest Half-Mile is embracing the color, right along with Patrick who will be driving a special St. Patrick's Day paint scheme in the 300-lapper that day. Patrick pilots the shamrock covered GoDaddy.com ride for JR Motorsports and makes her second start at BMS. As part of the celebration, fans can purchase a special ticket package for the race which also gives them access to a question and answer session with Patrick at Bristol on the morning of March 17. Fans will also receive a limited edition Danica / St. Patrick's Day event t-shirt, featuring the shamrock-themed #7 GoDaddy.com car. In addition, one lucky fan who purchases the package wins two hot passes and the opportunity to view the race from Patrick's pit box. Fans may visit a special website, www.DanicaGoesGreenAtBristol.com, which will keep them up to date with all the current news surrounding Patrick, tickets and the St. Patrick's Day celebration at BMS. The St. Patrick's Day celebration at BMS will be hosted by George Wendt, known for his 11-year role of the beer-drinking Norm Peterson on the television series Cheers. A post-race pit party also is on tap in the hospitality area with live music. In addition, the creek that runs through the property at Bristol Motor Speedway will be dyed green for the race and the lights that illuminate the stadium at night all will be green. The Patrick ticket package is available for $67 and includes a limited edition t-shirt, a $10 coupon to the JR Nation retail store at JR Motorsports, admittance to the question and answer session and the opportunity to be upgraded with pit passes courtesy of Bristol Motor Speedway. Children's ticket packages also will be available for $37.50 and will include a child's sized t-shirt.(BMS)(1-22-2012)

Army Veteran to Star in Sprint All-Star Race Commercial: For former drill sergeant and United States Army all-star, Derek Heavener, of Huntington, W. Va., the dream of being a NASCAR All-Star has come true thanks to Charlotte Motor Speedway. Heavener, who wrote an essay detailing why he should be considered for the "Be an All-Star" Facebook contest, was selected as the grand prize winner from more than 500 entries. "I've served my country honorably in the United States Army for 19 years. I've been deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan and Kosovo and have stood shoulder to shoulder with some of the greatest all-stars of our time; the American soldier," wrote Heavener. Heavener won two tickets to the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race on May 19, pre-race pit passes, VIP parking for the race and a role in Charlotte Motor Speedway's 2012 NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race commercial. He will join NASCAR stars Mark Martin, Paul Menard, Junior Johnson and the 2011 NASCAR Sprint All-Star race winner Carl Edwards on the set for a behind-the-scenes look at one of NASCAR's most creative commercials, shot in a replica Wild West town. 2011 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Tony Stewart, SPEED TV personality Jeff Hammond and NASCAR Hall of Famer Darrell Waltrip also will star in the commercial.(CMS)(1-21-2012)

Darlington and California security teams receive award: One of the top priorities for Darlington Raceway each year is to make sure its race fans, competitors, media and others attending the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Southern 500 race weekend every May have a safe and enjoyable experience when they visit the track "Too Tough to Tame." That priority did not go unnoticed by NASCAR as Darlington Raceway, and its security director Mike Richardson, were honored by receiving the sanctioning bodies "Excellence in Service Award" for its top notch security efforts for the 2011 season. Darlington was one of two tracks to accept NASCAR's highest honor for its security efforts along with Auto Club Speedway in California.(Darlington Raceway)(1-20-2012)

Richmond Staff receive NASCAR Awards of Excellence: Two Richmond International Raceway employees recently received awards acknowledging their commitment to excellent service they provide to RIR and the NASCAR community. Linwood Burrow, director of track operations, and Seiji Kashiwabara, nursing director, earned the Track Services Award for Excellence and Nursing Director of the Year Award for Excellence, respectively, at the 2012 NASCAR Summit. NASCAR presents The Track Services Award for Excellence annually to an individual who has taken the initiative to significantly improve track services at a NASCAR National Series Track over the duration of a career of ten or more years. Burrow, who earned the service award, has been a member of the Richmond International Raceway staff for over 40 years. NASCAR annually awards The Nursing Director of the Year Award for Excellence to a Nursing Director who shows outstanding leadership and organizational skills, quickly addresses concerns and delivers an immediate and positive outcome. Kashiwabara and his medical team operate the RIR Infield Care Center on race weekends, where they provide medical care to competitors and track guests. Kashiwabara has been a part of the RIR team for the past 11 years.(RIR)(1-20-2012)

Charlotte Season Ticket Package Offers Fans Unmatched Value: Charlotte Motor Speedway is launching its new NASCAR season ticket package for 2012 and fans who attend the NASCAR Preview 2012 Presented by Sprint in Charlotte, N.C., on Saturday, Jan. 21, will have the first opportunity to purchase the new package and learn more about the speedway's 2012 fan amenities. The Charlotte Motor Speedway Season Ticket saves fans 15 percent on their favorite reserved seat to three spectacular NASCAR Sprint Cup Series events at the speedway: the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race, the Coca-Cola 600 and the Bank of America 500. Each season ticket also includes a trial membership to The Speedway Club and one free pit pass per account to the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race on May 19. New for 2012, with each season ticket purchase fans will be automatically eligible for a chance to compete to win a 2012 Toyota Tundra, Highlander, Camry or Sienna minivan. The competition will take place on the infield grass during pre-race ceremonies for the May 27 Coca-Cola 600. For each dollar spent on season tickets, fans will receive one entry into the contest, which runs Jan. 21 through April 27. Also new for 2012, fans will receive a 1:24 scale collector diecast car of their favorite driver with the purchase of two Charlotte Motor Speedway Season Tickets, while supplies last. Season ticket holders receive access to exclusive events at Charlotte Motor Speedway, including press conferences and meet and greets with NASCAR personalities. The Charlotte Motor Speedway Season Ticket package offers more than $1,500 in benefits and includes:
• One free pit pass to the May 19 NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race.
• One free ticket to the North Carolina Education Lottery 200 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race on May 18, the May 24 LiftMaster Pole Night qualifying session for the Coca-Cola 600 and the Oct. 12 Dollar General 300 NASCAR Nationwide Series race.
• A six month Speedway Club trial social membership.
• Savings of 15% on tickets to all three NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races when seats for all three races are purchased.
• A 35% savings on additional pit passes and driver intro passes.
• A 10% discount on souvenirs at the Charlotte Motor Speedway Gift Shop on the second floor of Smith Tower.
• A 10% discount on NASCAR Hall of Fame entry and souvenirs and a 40 percent discount on NASCAR Hall of Fame simulator rides.
• VIP parking in a reserved lot for race weekends.
• A personalized seat plaque when the same seat is purchased for all three NASCAR Sprint Cup Series events.
• A limited edition lanyard and personalized identification hard card.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.charlottemotorspeedway.com or call 1-800-455-FANS (3267).(CMS)(1-18-2012)

Kentucky new parking field, road expansion projects advance: Kentucky Speedway's parking expansion project is beginning to take shape behind diligent construction crew efforts in unusually-mild Midwest winter temperatures. SMI acquired a 143-acre parcel of land adjacent to Kentucky Speedway and state Highway 35 in August 2011. The tract will be converted new parking fields that will be connected to speedway grounds by a new pedestrian tunnel. The tunnel is part of a Commonwealth of Kentucky project that will expand state Highway 35 to improve automotive and the Interstate 71 exit ramp at state Highway 35 to help improve automotive traffic flows during Kentucky Speedway events. Parking and road expansion projects are scheduled to be completed in spring.(Kentucky Speedway)(1-16-2012)

Thunderbirds to perform flyover for Daytona 500: The world-renowned U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will provide race fans with the flyover during the National Anthem for the 54th annual Daytona 500 - the prestigious season-opening event for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 26 at Daytona International Speedway. It's the third time the flying team, officially known as the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, will perform the flyover for the Daytona 500. The Thunderbirds previously flew over the race in 2008 and 2011. The Thunderbirds flyover will feature six F-16 Fighting Falcons, the Air Force's premier multi-role fighter aircraft, soaring over the speedway at the moment the final notes of the Star-Spangled Banner are sung.(DIS)(1-14-2012)

Michigan International Speedway, MEDC announce Pure Michigan 400: With the success of 2011, two of Michigan's best-known brands - Michigan International Speedway and Pure Michigan - are again teaming up to host the Pure Michigan 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at MIS on Sunday, August 19. The three-year partnership between MIS and Pure Michigan is a continuation of what started in 2011, and the first time a state's branding agency sponsored NASCAR's premier stock car series. The inaugural Pure Michigan 400 in 2011 received overwhelmingly positive feedback from fans and tourists alike.(Michigan Speedway)(1-12-2012)

Richmond tickets go on sale: Proving that good things do happen on Friday the 13th, Richmond International Raceway fans may purchase tickets to the Saturday, April 28, Richmond 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race this Friday, January 13, at 9:00 a.m. ET. The race marks the return of NASCAR to Richmond International Raceway for the first time since last September's Wonderful Pistachios 400 - one of the most exciting races of the 2011 season. Fans can enhance their race day experience with the Saturday Pit Pass Upgrade, providing the only opportunity to score a pre-race pit pass to walk down pit road for an unforgettable infield visit. The upgrade also includes admission to the indoor, climate-controlled 3-Wide hospitality area. The Saturday Pit Pass Upgrade is $80 for adults, $40 for kids 12 and younger. Fans wishing to purchase must also have a grandstand ticket. Tickets for the Richmond 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race can be purchased online beginning Friday, January 13 or calling 866-455-7223. Tickets are also available for the April 27, Richmond 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series race and the April 26, doubleheader, featuring the Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown Late Model race and the Blue Ox 100 NASCAR K&N Pro Series East race.(RIR)(1-12-2012)

Emergency texting available to race patrons: International Speedway Corporation (ISC) has partnered with InStadiumSolutions to implement a text-message based communication system at all of its 12 motorsports facilities. The service was introduced last weekend during the NASCAR Nationwide and Sprint Cup races at Darlington Raceway. The system allows fans to communicate with the racetrack's command post if assistance is needed inside the facility. The technology was tested at Homestead-Miami Speedway last November during the final weekend of the NASCAR season. Instructions will be posted throughout each racetrack and will be broadcast through audio and video public announcements. Besides Darlington and Homestead-Miami, ISC owns and/or operates Daytona, Talladega, Michigan, Richmond, Auto Club Speedway, Kansas, Phoenix, Chicago, Martinsville and Watkins Glen. The Fan Text Messaging Service is also being used by several professional and college teams, as well as at events such as the Super Bowl, BCS National Championship and World Baseball Classic.(Associated Press)(5-14-2009)

Track blower, uses vacuum:
After six months of research and a year of development, Rob Brush believes he has a better alternative to help dry race tracks. The project manager for a steel fabrication company in Canada has designed a track dryer that travels about twice the speed as the current jet dryers used at NASCAR tracks. Rather than just blow hot air on the track as the jet driers do, Brush's vehicle also uses a vacuum to suck up water akin to a Shop-Vac. "With eight of these units at Daytona International Speedway, we could dry the track in under an hour," Brush said, estimating he could cut the current drying time in half. Brush has built a prototype that was given a successful trial run by NASCAR when a shower followed Sprint Cup qualifying at New Hampshire Motor Speedway two months ago. Brush is expecting to meet with NASCAR officials in Daytona Beach, Fla., in two weeks before bringing the prototype dryer to the season finale at Homestead, Fla. The invention could be a boon for NASCAR, which has been plagued by rain this year (three Cup races were delayed a day and three were shortened by bad weather). The dryer also would fit with NASCAR's green initiatives because it runs on propane. Brush estimates it would burn less than 500 gallons to dry Daytona vs. 3,000 gallons of jet fuel. Brush has attended several races over the past two seasons, taking nearly 4,000 photos in researching the dryer.(USA Today)(11-8-2009)

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