June 2011 Pole Sitter: #22-Kurt Busch, 171.579mph, finished 2nd

August 2011 Pole Sitter: #20-Joey Logano, 172.055mph, finished ?

Track Qualifying Record: Kasey Kahne, June 2004, 172.533mph

Oldest Pole Winner: David Pearson, 49 years, 5 months, 19 days, 6/10/1984

Youngest Pole Winner: Joey Logano, 21 years, 2 months, 13 days, 8/6/2011

Pole Winners: 36

June 2011 Race Winner: #24-Jeff Gordon, 145.384mph, started 3rd

August 2011 Race Winner: #2-Brad Keselowski, 137.876mph, started 13th

Oldest Winner: Harry Gant, 50 years, 5 months, 7 days, 6/17/1990

Youngest Winner: Jeff Gordon, 24 years, 10 months, 12 days, 6/16/1996

1st Race Record: Alan Kulwicki, June 1992, 144.023mph

2nd Race Record: Rusty Wallace, July 1996, 144.892

Slowest Race Record: Jimmie Johnson, June 2004, 112.129mph

Worst Starting Spot to Win: Carl Edwards, June 2005, started 29th

Most Wins: 5 - Bill Elliott, Jeff Gordon; 4 - Denny Hamlin

Most Poles: 5 - Bill Elliott, Ken Schrader

Most Top 5s: 19 - Mark Martin

Most Top 10s: 33 - Mark Martin

Most Lead Changes: 56 - 7/30/1979

Fewest Lead Changes: 10 - 7/26/1998

Most Leaders: 16, Three times, most recently 6/13/2004

Fewest Leaders: 4 - Twice, most recently, 6/9/1985

Most Cautions: 13 - 6/17/1990 and 7/24/2005

Fewest Cautions: 1 - 7/30/1978

Most Caution Laps: 57, 6/13/2004

Few Caution Laps: 3, 7/30/1978

Most Finishers on a lead lap: 36, 6/10/2007 [rain shortened to 106 laps]

Fewest Finishers on a lead lap: 2 - twice, most recently 6/6/1982

Most Running at the Finish: 42, 6/10/2007 [rain shortened]

Fewest Running at the Finish: 18, 7/25/1982

Most Laps Led: 175, Kurt Busch, 8/5/2007

Fewest Laps Led by a Race Winner: 4, Bobby Labonte, 7/29/2001

Most Wins by Manufacturer: 25 - Chevy

Up front is best at Pocono: In the 68 Sprint Cup races held at Pocono the winner has started in the front row 23 times and the top ten 47 times.

* Darrell Waltrip won the pole in July 1985 and started 1st
Bill Elliott started 2nd and won, 18 days later NASCAR disallowed
the pole due to illegal fuel additive.

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)

Half-Priced Concourse Tickets for Kids 12 and Under at Pocono: Pocono Raceway has always strived to be fan friendly with an emphasis on families. Pocono Raceway announced its latest initiative, Kids 12 and under will be admitted at half price to ALL Concourse Grandstand sections for the June 10, Pocono 400 and the August 5, Pennsylvania 400, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series events in 2012. These sections include: Concourse Gold (adult price $55.00, kids price $27.50), Concourse Vista (adult price $50.00, kids price $25.00) and Concourse (adult price $45.00, kids price $22.50.) The Concourse Grandstand runs the along the front straight at Pocono Raceway (nearly 3,000 feet), so fans purchasing the kids tickets have the option of choosing seats at or near the start/finish line, near Turn # 1 or near Turn # 3. All Concourse Gold sections contain body contoured bucket seats. (All Kids tickets must be purchased with at least one full-priced ticket. All seating is subject to availability. Everyone must have a Sunday grandstand ticket for Raceday admission. Gate validation at time of entry required.) As in the past, Kids 12 and under are admitted free (with a paying adult) to all grandstand sections on Friday and Saturday for practice, qualifying and companion races including the Camping World Truck Series race in August. Grandstand parking is always free at Pocono Raceway. Make Pocono Raceway a memorable racing experience for your family and kids in 2012 with great racing action and huge savings. Tickets can be purchased on line at poconoraceway.com, toll free via phone 1-800-RACEWAY (1-800-722-3929).(Pocono Raceway)(1-7-2012)

Pocono Raceway solar farm reaches milestone:- Slightly more than 16 months after the dedication of Pocono Raceway’s solar farm, the total amount of electricity produced by the 25 acre facility reached the 5,000,000 kilowatt hour (kWh) mark. The Pocono Raceway solar installation consists of 39,960 American made photovoltaic modules that will produce more than 72 million kilowatt hours (kWh) of energy over the next 20 years. The environmental attributes associated with the system will offset more than 3,104 Metric Tons of carbon dioxide annually and will generate enough power to provide the electricity needs for over 500 homes beyond the power needs of Pocono Raceway. The 5,000,000kWh produced has already impacted the environment. The total energy generated equals the use of more than 30,000 60Watt light bulbs for one year at eight hours per day and represents a savings of more than 400,000 gallons of gasoline with a carbon dioxide (CO2) offset equaling that of 90,000 trees or 143,000 Propane BBQ Grills. The Raceway has been awarded a number of environmental awards for its sustainable energy efforts including the 2011 Excellence in Renewable Energy Awards, Readers Choice Award presented by RenewableEnergyWorld.com and the 2011 Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence, presented each year by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. These awards highlight the best in environmental innovation and expertise. The Pocono Raceway Solar Farm is located along Long Pond Road adjacent Pocono Raceway’s storied 2.5 mile Super Speedway.(Pocono Raceway)(12-27-2011)

Pocono Raceway Executive Honored By U.S. Air Force: Air Force Recruiting Squadron (314th RCS) recently held its annual training conference at the Resorts Hotel and Casino, Atlantic City, NJ. This year’s annual event was jammed packed with innovative training workshops, command key speakers and awards presentations. A special award was presented to Bob Pallo, Pocono Raceway Vice-President, for his efforts in bringing together two great organizations… the U.S Air Force and Pocono Raceway. Lt. Col. Ricardo Trimillos, the 314th RCS Commander, bestowed the title of “Honorary Commander” of the 314th RCS upon Mr. Pallo. Pallo has forged an irreplaceable bond with the members of the 314th RCS Eagles. He has partnered with their booster club and created the opportunity for unit members to volunteer time working various booths throughout the raceway. The booster club retains a portion of the proceeds and those proceeds contribute to 75% of the booster club’s annual operating budget. By indoctrinating Bob Pallo into the Air Force culture, Lt Col Trimillos has capitalized on a lucrative future venture with Pocono Raceway. The combined outputs of these two great organizations are certain to yield winning results for both the U.S. Air Force and Pocono Raceway.(Pocono Raceway)(12-26-2011)

Mattiolis honored: Drs. Rose and Joseph Mattioli, of Pocono Raceway, received the National Motorsports Press Association's Myers Brothers Award last night. The award, presented during season-ending NASCAR festivities in Las Vegas, recognizes individuals and/or groups who have provided outstanding contributions to stock car racing. The Mattiolis have owned Pocono Raceway since it opened in the late 1960s. Finalists for the award included Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson and the Wood Brothers. "[The Mattiolis] represent the true heart and spirit of NASCAR," said NMPA president Rea White. "They always recognized that NASCAR was more about people than anything else." Billy and Bobby Myers were former NASCAR competitors.(Philadelphia Daily News)(12-2-2011)

Pocono Raceway's Thanksgiving Ticket Sale: Pocono Raceway announced the "Turkey Ticket Promotion," giving race fans a 15 percent discount on their choice of Concourse Vista (sale cost: $42.50) or Terrace (sale cost: $63.75) tickets to the 2012 Pocono 400 on Sunday, June 10th and the 2012 Pennsylvania 400 on Sunday, August 5th. Additionally, all purchasers of this promotion will receive a Pocono Raceway hunter's cap for free. There is a limited supply of these tickets and this special offer ends on Wednesday, November 30th. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.poconoraceway.com/turkey.html, or call 1-800-RACEWAY (722-3929) and mention the promotional code "TURKEY".(Pocono Raceway)(11-3-2011)

Pocono Raceway to be repaved: per an image on Pocono Raceway's Facebook, look for an announcement today [around 11am/et] that Pocono Raceway will repave the track before the start of the 2012 racing season. Supposedly work has already begun on removing asphalt.
UPDATE: On June 4, 2010 Pocono Raceway announced the Raceway was embarking on an expansive construction project directed to improve driver safety and enhance competition. In the fall of 2010, more 5,500 feet of the new generation SAFER (Steel and Foam Energy Reduction) barrier was installed to the inside of the track from the exit of turn one to the entrance of turn three, and more than 6,100 feet of catch fence added from the front straight to turn two. Today, Raceway President and CEO, Brandon Igdalsky announced the kick-off of phase two of the project that includes: a new outer pit wall, concrete pit stalls and repaving of the 2.5 mile superspeedway, known as “The Tricky Triangle.”
“We received input from a number of drivers, as well as, NASCAR Officials before making our final improvement plans,” stated Igdalsky. “A new outer pit wall will replace the current pit wall and new concrete pit stalls will provide an excellent surface for pit stops and subsequent burn-outs. Our pit stalls are already among the largest on the circuit and our pit road is one of the widest and safest in NASCAR,” Igdalsky added. “Pocono was last repaved in 1995 and all construction work will be completed prior to Pocono Raceway’s June 2012 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event.”
The 2012 Pocono Raceway schedule includes the June 10, Pocono 400 and the August 5, Pennsylvania 400, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series events. An ARCA 200-mile race will be run on Saturday, June 9. An ARCA 125-mile race and a NASCAR Camping World Truck Series 125-mile race will be run on Saturday, August 4. NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Pole Qualifying will also be conducted on the Saturday prior to each Sprint Cup Series event.
Renewal forms for 2012 tickets have been sent out to existing ticket holders. June 2011 ticket holders will receive a 10 percent discount on tickets ordered by October 31. August 2011 ticket holders will receive a 20 percent discount on tickets ordered by November 1 or a 10 percent discount on tickets ordered by December 31. Additionally, if race fans renew their tickets for the 2012 season by October 31, they will be automatically entered into a random drawing for two tickets to 2011 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Awards Banquet in Las Vegas on Friday, December 2 and $500 spending cash. For additional renewal or ticket information call toll free 1-800-RACEWAY (1-800-722-3923) or visit: www.poconoraceway.com.(Pocono Raceway)(10-4-2011)

Pocono Raceway Solar Farm hits milestone: Slightly more than one year after the dedication of Pocono Raceway’s solar farm, the total amount of electricity produced by the 25 acre facility reached the 4,000,000 kilowatt hour (kWh) mark. The solar installation consists of 39,960 American made photovoltaic modules that will produce more than 72 million kilowatt hours (kWh) of energy over the next 20 years. The environmental attributes associated with the system will offset more than 3,104 Metric Tons of carbon dioxide annually and will generate enough power to provide the electricity needs for over 1,000 homes beyond the power needs of Pocono Raceway.
The 4,000,000 (kWh) produced has already impacted the environment. The total energy generated equals the use of 22,830 light bulbs (60W) for one year at eight hours per day and represents a savings of 324,000 gallons of gasoline with a carbon dioxide (CO2) offset equaling that of 72,000 trees. The Raceway has been awarded a number of environmental awards for its sustainable energy efforts including the 2011 Excellence in Renewable Energy Awards, Readers Choice Award presented by RenewableEnergyWorld.com and the 2011 Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence, presented each year by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. These awards highlight the best in environmental innovation and expertise
The Pocono Raceway Solar Farm is located along Long Pond Road adjacent Pocono Raceway’s storied two and one-half mile Super Speedway. Pocono Raceway will host two NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race weekends in 2012. The 31st annual Pocono 400 is scheduled for June 8-10 and the 39th annual Pennsylvania 400 is set for August 3-5.(Pocono Raceway)(9-28-2011)

Drive the track at Ponoco for hurricane relief: Hurricane Irene's widespread destruction was felt up and down the East Coast. Northeastern Pennsylvania had its share of flooding and wind damage that has affected thousands of residents in the Pocono Mountains. Through it all, the American Red Cross was there to assist Hurricane Irene victims with food, clothing, meals and shelter. Hurricane Irene is the latest natural disaster to have taxed the resources of the Red Cross. Pocono Raceway would like to help. The Raceway, which has partnered with the Red Cross in hosting blood drives and various fundraising activities, will be allowing individuals the unique opportunity to drive their personal vehicles on the famed 2.5 mile superspeedway on Thursday September 1. For a donation of $10.00 per car, individuals can take a two-lap drive around "The Tricky Triangle." Pocono Raceway will match the total dollar amount collected. All proceeds from this event will be donated to the American Red Cross of the Poconos, Disaster Relief Fund. Hours of the ride on September 1 will be from 12 noon to 6:30 p.m.(Pocono Raceway)(8-30-2011)

Pocono considering 400 mile races: UPDATE: Pocono Raceway President Brandon Igdalski told Sirius XM NASCAR Radio's Sirius Speedway with Dave Moody that cutting the track's two NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races from 500 miles to 400 next season is "being considered". "We're looking at things, but we haven't made that decision quite yet," said Igdalski. "We're looking at it for the future, whether it's this year, next year, or a couple of years down the road. It's a different sport and a different time than it was years ago, and we're always looking at things." Igdalski took the helm of the historic tri-oval when his grandfather, track founder Dr. Joseph Mattioli, announced his retirement Friday. Igdalski said he was unaware of his grandfather's plans, adding, "We got a call about 30 minutes beforehand saying, `Be in the Media Center in half an hour.' I had no idea he was going to retire. My jaw hit the ground."(Sirius Speedway)(8-10-2011)
UPDATE: Pocono Raceway's first NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race was in 1974, a second Sprint Cup Series race was added to the Pocono schedule in 1982. Sunday's Good Sam RV Insurance 500 was the 68thSprint Cup Series at Pocono Raceway. Each race was scheduled for 500 miles and each produced its share of drama and excitement. Starting with the June 10, 2012 Pocono Sprint Cup Series race, the scheduled distance for both NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races will be shortened to 400 miles. "The 400 mile distance will make NASCAR racing at Pocono even more exciting," stated Raceway President and CEO , Brandon Igdalsky. "Race strategies will change, fuel mileage calculations will be altered and I firmly believe that our fans will be treated to outstanding racing at the 400 mile distance." "NASCAR supports Pocono Raceway's move to two 400-mile NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races in 2012," stated Steve O'Donnell, NASCAR Senior Vice President, Racing Operations . "We believe this will be a good transition for the fans and competitors. It will provide the teams with a new type of strategy and should make for even more exciting competition at a unique facility that has a long-standing history in our sport." Eight weeks after the Pocono 400. It will be the August 5, Pennsylvania 400. Both 400 mile races will have the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards as companion races. The August Pennsylvania 400 weekend will also feature a NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race on August 4.(Pocono Raceway)(8-10-2011)

Security Guards Stabbed at Pocono Raceway: Two Philadelphia-area men were in the Monroe County jail over the weekend after police said one stabbed two security guards at Pocono Raceway early Sunday. Daniel Kupper, 20, of Melrose Park, is in Monroe County Correctional Facility on $100,000 bail after Pocono Mountain Regional Police said he stabbed two members of the track's security force during a fight around 3:20 am. Police said Louis Kupper, 23, of Elkins Park, didn't stab either of the two unidentified guards, but is in jail on a parole violation. According to police, the Kuppers were passengers in a van that disobeyed traffic directions given by the event staff at the track's staging area. Both got out of the vehicle and began fighting with security and event staffers. Daniel Kupper then stabbed a 50-year-old security staffer in his neck, shoulder and back, police said. He also stabbed a 55-year-old security staffer in the collarbone and back, police said. Both were taken to local hospitals for treatment. The 55-year-old was listed in stable condition at Lehigh Valley Medical Center, but no condition was available for the 50-year-old victim. Both were employees of the Strike Force Protective Services company. Daniel Kupper is being charged with aggravated assault, simple assault, reckless endangerment, disorderly conduct, public drunkenness and underage drinking. After a Sunday preliminary hearing, he is in jail on $100,000 bail. Louis Kupper is charged with simple assault, furnishing alcohol to a minor, disorderly conduct and public drunkenness. He is being held in the jail on a parole violation and is waiting for an arraignment hearing.(Pocono Record)(8-9-2011)

Keselowski wins at Pocono: an injured #2-Brad Keselowski won the Good Sam RV Insurance 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Pocono Raceway for his 3rd career win and 2nd win of 2011. On Wednesday, Keselowski broke his left ankle in a practice wreck at Road Atlanta. On lap 124 there was a heavy rain shower at 3:35pm/et that brought a 1 hour, 40 minute delay of the race. The track was dried and the race restarted and finished.
#18-Busch [who spun early in the race] finished 2nd followed by #22-Busch, #48-Johnson, #39-Newman, #24-Gordon, #99-Edwards, #16-Biffle, #88-Earnhardt Jr. and last weeks race winner #27-Menard. The pole sitter, #20-Logano, who would had won the race if the rain delay ended the race, had a tire go down late and had to pit, finishing 26th.
Points leader going in to the race, #99-Edwards, finished 7th and his lead drops to 9 points over #48-Johnson.
There were 23 lead changes among 10 drivers and 5 cautions for 21 yellow flag laps and a 1:40 red flag for rain. The attendance is listed as 85,000, down from 100,000 last year.
Scheduled Race Re-Air:
ESPN2, Monday, August 8 at 12:00 am/et;
SPEED, Wednesday, August 10 at 12:00pm/et
See race results, awards, laps led and more on Jayski's Pocono Race Results/Awards page.
See drivers championship points standings on Jayski's Drivers Points Standings page.(8-7-2011)

In Memoriam: On Sunday, August 7th, a Pit Wall Plaque will be dedicated to the memory of John A. Venuti, known to many in the racing world as "The Bear". John was a dear friend of Pocono Raceway and NASCAR.(Pocono Raceway)(8-7-2011)

Revised Pocono Schedule for Sunday: Due to the postponement of the Good Sam RV Emergency Road Service 125 (NASCAR Camping World Truck Series) & Pennsylvania 125 (ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards) races, Pocono Raceway will exchange a Saturday General Admission grandstand ticket for a $25.00 credit towards the purchase of any Sunday Grandstand ticket OR a similar Saturday Grandstand ticket in 2012. Pocono Raceway will also exchange a Saturday Terrace Club ticket for a $75.00 credit towards the purchase of any Sunday ticket valued at $75.00 or more. Fans can exchange their tickets by visiting the Gate # 8 ticket booth behind the Grandstands, beginning at 8:00 am. If the Pre-Race Pits are not open due to competition on the track, Pre-Race Pit /Paddock Pass will be honored for Pre-Race Pit/Paddock admission for either NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Pocono Raceway in 2012.
Here is Sunday’s revised schedule of events is as follows:
5:00 a.m. – Parking Lots Open
8:00 a.m. – Grandstand Gates Open
9:00 a.m. – Good Sam RV Emergency Road Service 125 (Truck Series) race
TBD – Pennsylvania 125 (ARCA) race to immediately follow conclusion of Truck Series event
12:00 p.m. – Salute to the Armed Forces Pre-Race Festivities Begin
12:30 p.m. – Sprint Cup Series Driver Introductions
1:00 p.m. – Good Sam RV Insurance 500 (Cup Series) race.(Pocono Raceway)
TV Note: SPEED will offer live coverage of Sunday’s rain-postponed NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race from Pocono Raceway Sunday at 9:00 am/et. NASCAR RaceDay follows the Truck Series race live at 10:00 am/et. SPEED also will provide same-day delayed coverage of the ARCA Racing Series race from Pocono Sunday at 10:00pm/et following Wind Tunnel.(8-7-2011)

Pocono Raceway Forms Multi-Year Partnership with FullCircle Ventures: Pocono Raceway has formed a multi-year agreement with FullCircle Ventures, LLC to represent the track in marketing its assets and creating corporate partnerships. Known as the “Tricky Triangle” for its triangular 2.5-mile layout, Pocono Raceway is just 90 miles from New York and Philadelphia. FullCircle will aggressively promote the track’s close proximity to the nation’s No. 1 and No. 4 television markets, focusing on corporate sponsorship, race entitlement, suite sales and trackside marketing, while also identifying and developing new entertainment opportunities for the track that annually hosts two NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races, one NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race and two ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards events. It features the StockCar Racing Experience, offering fan packages that range from a three-lap ride-along program to an 80-lap driving experience. And from its strong social networking presence to the implementation of SAFER Barriers and new catchfencing all around the 2.5-mile triangle, Pocono Raceway has continued to renovate well after building new competitor garages, a media center and infield care center in 1999. In August 2010, Pocono Raceway opened a 25-acre solar farm capable of producing 3-4 million megawatts of electricity per year. The solar farm allows the track to be totally self-sustaining from an energy perspective, while also providing additional electricity to the local grid – a claim no other racing facility in the country can make. In fact, Pocono Raceway is the largest renewable energy project in the state of Pennsylvania.(Pocono Raceway)(8-7-2011)

Pocono Raceway owner resigns and retires MORE: Pocono Raceway owner Joseph Mattioli has resigned and turned over all his duties to his grandchildren. "It has to stay in the family," said Mattioli, in a June interview with The Philadelphia Inquirer. "I put it in trust. They can't touch it. They can't sell it. The (SOBs) are going to run it, or they're going to starve." Track president and grandson Brandon Igdalsky has added the new title of CEO to his list of duties at the track. The 87-year-old Mattioli fought back tears Friday as he talked about his decision to step down. Mattioli was in a wheelchair and held his wife's hand. Mattioli was a former dentist in the Philadelphia area before he moved to the Poconos in the 1960s. He's known around the track as "Doc."(Pocono Record)(8-5-2011)
MORE see the Doc Mattioli retirement statement at the Pocono Raceway site.(8-7-2011)

Hauler knocks down Pocono flagstand: a Truck Series [#66] team hauler accidentally knocked down the Pocono Raceway flagstand at the start-finish line. The track will use a temporary stand for the weekend.

National Anthem for Pocono: Country recording artist, Lauren Briant, will sing the National Anthem prior to the Good Sam RV Emergency Road Service 125, NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race at Pocono Raceway on Saturday August 6. Later that evening (7:00 - 9:30 pm) she will perform a free concert in the Pocono Raceway infield for infield and RV guests. A fireworks display will follow the concert.
Saturday August 6 will be filled with exciting racing starting with NASCAR Camping World Truck Series qualifying at 9:35 am followed by NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Weis Markets qualifying at 10:40 am. Pre-race activities for the Good Sam RV Emergency Road Service 125 begin at 12:30 pm with the green flag scheduled for 1:00 pm. The Pennsylvania 125, ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards race will immediately follow the truck series race. The Lauren Briant infield concert and a fireworks display will conclude a day of exciting, action packed events. Pre-race activities for the Good Sam RV Insurance 500, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race begin at 11:00 am on Sunday August 7. Driver introduction is set for 12:30 pm leading up to the scheduled 1:00 pm start of the Good Sam RV Insurance 500. Good tickets remain for both days but are going fast. To order tickets call the Pocono Raceway Ticket Office toll free at 1-800-RACEWAY (1-800-722-3929) or online at www.poconoraceway.com. A print at home option is available for online purchases.(Pocono Raceway)(8-2-2011)

Good Sam sponsoring August race at Pocono: Good Sam, the world's largest RV owners community, and Pocono International Raceway, announced the sponsorship of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and NASCAR Camping World Series races at Pocono Raceway on August 6-7 , 2011. The Sprint Cup Series event will be titled the Good Sam RV Insurance 500 and the Camping World Truck Series event will be titled the Good Sam RV Emergency Road Service 125. The Good Sam RV Emergency Road Service 125 will air live on SPEED at 1 p.m. ET on Saturday. August 6, 2011. The Good Sam RV Insurance 500 will air live on ESPN at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday, August 7, 2011. For ticket information, visit http://www.poconoraceway.com or call toll free 1-800-RACEWAY (1-800-722-3929)(Pocono Raceway)(7-21-2011)

More Shifting Now Available At Pocono: For practice, qualifying and the race, all competitors must compete with transmission gear ratios as follows: 1st gear optional; 2nd gear 1.70:1 or greater (1.699 or less will not be permitted); 3rd gear 1.14:1 or greater (1.139 or less will not be permitted); 4th gear must remain 1.00:1. Overdrive ratios will not be permitted.
This is an addendum to the 2011 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Rule Book which states: Transmission gear ratios between 1.00:1 and 1.28:1 will not be permitted for the remaining forward transmission gears except road course Events. Overdrive gears will not be permitted.
Said John Darby, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Director: "There has been some confusion that shifting was not allowed at Pocono, and that isn't true. The real reason shifting stopped at Pocono was because gear ratios weren't compatible for shifting. Over the last few years, teams have done it with limited success but not on a consistent basis. So, what we did was change transmission gear ratios to make it easier on engines and give teams a better opportunity to use third gear and shift. Primarily it's in an effort to allow the drivers to maximize the RPM on each of the three straightaways. When you look at the race track, you instantly see the issue that they're faced with. The frontstretch is more than 3,700 feet [3,740], the backstretch or the Long Pond Straight is 3,000 [3,055] feet and the short straightaway between the Tunnel Turn and Turn 3 is only 1,780 feet. So consequently [there will be] a straightaway that you don't get anywhere near your maximum potential RPM. This is all done in an effort to try to even those three straightaways out in the RPM that the engine will attain."(NASCAR)(6-10-2011)

Pocono Raceway Festival: This Saturday, June 11th at noon, the Sherman Theater will present the third annual Pocono Raceway Festival located on Main Street in downtown Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. Taking place the day before the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series 5-Hour Energy 500 race at the Pocono Raceway in Long Pond, PA – just minutes down Interstate 80 – this free, all-day long music and racing celebration will have something for everyone in the family. The festival was created in part to support Sunday's race at the Pocono Raceway and to give the fans that are visiting the region something fun to do on the day prior to the race. By combining spectacular show car displays, delicious food vendors, fun games for all ages, and musical performances on several stages, the staff at the Sherman Theater is ready to top last year’s awesome event. Headlining the musical portion of the festival with a rockin’ performance on the 5th street stage will be legendary rock icons Blue Oyster Cult. Known for their classic hits like “Don’t Fear The Reaper”, “Burnin’ For You”, “Godzilla”, and others, these hit makers will keep the Main Street crowd moving.
Although admission to The 2011 Pocono Raceway festival is free, VIP tickets are available at ShermanTheater.com right now for just $8 and include a variety of perks for the fan who is looking for that special experience. Benefits of a VIP ticket include:
* A guaranteed spot in the VIP area closest to the stage for the Blue Oyster Cult show.
* An entry into a raffle on the day of the festival where fans can win any number of cool prizes
* A limited edition poster commemorating the Pocono Raceway Festival with Blue Oyster Cult (while supplies last).
* One ticket to the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race at Pocono Raceway on August 6th, 2011 (while supplies last).
In addition to Blue Oyster Cult, other performances representing various musical genres and styles will run throughout the day on several outdoor stages around the downtown area. Fans will be treated to sets from NEPA favorites MiZ, The Mike Montrey Band, Sherman Theater Clash For Cash winners The Hollow, Waiting For Katie, Mouths of Babes, Sinners Saints, The Kevin Brennan Band, The Holy Goats, Dave Goddess Group, Mystery Fyre, and High Strung.
Rich Berkowitz, Sherman Theater President & CEO, explained why the Sherman works to produce this festival year after year. “This festival is a great opportunity for race fans, local residents, and tourists visiting the Poconos to get acquainted with all that downtown Stroudsburg and the Pocono Mountains have to offer.” Berkowitz continued, “And attending the Pocono Raceway Festival is also an exciting way to support a community treasure like the Sherman Theater.”
The Pocono Raceway Festival highlights all of the great retail, food, and craft attractions downtown Stroudsburg has in store during the time when NASCAR race teams make their way to the Pocono Mountains region for the first Sprint Cup race of the year at Pocono Raceway. This year’s festival will feature:
* A GEICO show car display with fun interactive games and prizes
* The FedEx show car and truck along with a FedEx Racing shop
* The Stock Car Experience with a virtual NASCAR driving simulator
* The Coors Lite NASCAR show car
* The Miss Sprint Cup Girls
* Giveaways and samples from Pocono 500 race title sponsor 5-Hour Energy
* Kitt from Knight Rider
Other attractions at the festival include RC Car Races, Pinewood Derby Races, Rock Wall Climbing, Carnival games with prizes, racing simulators, face painting, air brush tattoos, and NASCAR themed vendors. And for the young fans at the festival, the characters of Blue and Magenta from Blue's Clues: Live will be making an appearance and taking pictures!
In addition to all of this, there will be nearly two hundred different vendors and storefronts with sidewalk sales and specials. Not to mention the over twenty different food vendors and restaurants that will showcase food ranging from Caribbean jerk chicken to pulled pork to deep fried Oreos.
The Pocono Raceway Festival is an event to benefit the nonprofit Sherman Theater, including all of the work that the organization accomplishes with local charities like the Rotary Club, Daffodil Express, and others. Festival attendees are encouraged to purchase raffle tickets on Saturday as all proceeds from the raffle will support the Sherman Theater. These raffle tickets will earn fans the chance to score cool prizes like Terrace Club passes for both NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races at Pocono Raceway, Martin brand acoustic guitars signed by performing artists like Hinder and moe., and much more.
The 2011 Pocono Raceway Festival could not be produced by the Sherman Theater without help from generous festival sponsors including ESSA Bank, Gray Chevrolet, the Rotary Club of the Stroudsburgs, the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, and the Jacob Stroud Corporation. Sherman Theater media partners for this event include 98.5 KRZ, Viamedia, and the Pocono Record. For more information on the 2011 Pocono Raceway Festival or any of the Sherman Theater’s upcoming events, visit the Sherman online at www.shermantheater.com.(Sherman Theater PR)(6-9-2011)

Pocono Raceway Welcomes Back PepsiCo’s Dream Machine Recycling Program: As we cruise into the 2011 season, Pocono Raceway continues to fuel our recycling efforts by welcoming back the PepsiCo Dream Machine recycling program. Last year, we became the first raceway to launch the program, and are excited to provide race fans with this convenient and rewarding recycling option again this season!
When you recycle your plastic bottles and aluminum cans in a Dream Machine, you can:
* Support post-9/11 U.S. veterans with disabilities;
* Help make our planet a little greener; and
* Earn personal reward points, redeemable for local discounts (kiosks only).
Each time you recycle in a Dream Machine you are taking action to help support a disabled U.S. veteran – the more bottles and cans people recycle in a Dream Machine, the more support PepsiCo will provide to the Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans with Disabilities, a national program offering post-9/11 disabled U.S. veterans free education and experiential training in entrepreneurship and small business management.
You’re also helping to make our planet greener; many people are shocked to learn that only one-third of the plastic beverage containers in the United States are recycled – that means that two-thirds often wind up as litter. But, if every household in the U.S. recycled just three more plastic bottles a month, we could divert more than 23 million pounds of plastic from our landfills. When you recycle your plastic bottles or aluminum cans in a Dream Machine kiosk, you can earn points redeemable for local discounts and coupons on entertainment, dining and travel at Greenopolis.com.
The Dream Machine recycling initiative – created by PepsiCo in collaboration with Waste Management, Keep America Beautiful and Greenopolis – is introducing thousands of recycling kiosks and bins at high-traffic, public locations around the country to help increase the U.S. beverage container recycling rate by giving Americans convenient access to recycling receptacles. For more information on the program, visit Facebook.com/DreamMachine. To find Dream Machine locations across North America, visit www.DreamMachineLocator.com.(Pocono Raceway)(6-8-2011)

Destination Pocono offers Transportation Option: Pocono Raceway is partnering once again with Destination Pocono to offer local transportation for residents and tourists to both NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races at Pocono Raceway in 2011. Destination Pocono will provide 11 pick-up locations for the June 12, Pocono 500 and the August 7, Pennsylvania 500. This service not only alleviates traffic into the race track but also allows people a service of both convenience and safety while reducing carbon emissions.
For only $35.00 per person, race fans will be able to meet a bus at the designated location that is most convenient to them. The bus will enter the track quickly via a bus lane as well as exit after the race in the same bus lane to beat the traffic. Your driver will remain with the bus for easy refills of your cooler and to store any memorabilia you wish to bring home with you. The best part is that the bus actually takes a trip around the track that everyone on board is sure to enjoy.
Destination Pocono is offering the following pick-up locations to choose from: Wilkes-Barre, Montage Mountain, Downtown Scranton, Delaware Water Gap, Mount Pocono, Tannersville, Milford, Greentown/Hawley, White Haven, Hazleton and Easton. Destination Pocono can now book several race ticket packages along with local transportation to consumers.
It's is incredibly easy for you to book your seat as well as your race tickets and upgrades. Visit www.DestinationPocono.com for more information and pricing or call 888-629-8050.(Pocono Raceway)(6-8-2011)

Jason Lee named 5-hour Energy 500 Grand Marshal: Pocono Raceway announced that Jason Lee, star of TNT's Memphis Beat, has been named Grand Marshal for the 5-hour ENERGY 500 at Pocono Raceway on June 12, 2011. Lee, who stars as Memphis police detective Dwight Hendricks, will participate in pre-race activities, which includes giving the command for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers to start their engines. Memphis Beat centers on Hendricks, a detective who considers himself the keeper of Memphis. He inherited a passion for music and an instinct for solving crimes from his father, an officer who was killed in the line of duty when Dwight was a young boy. Dwight sees his hometown of Memphis as a rich, magical place. He is an outstanding detective with a laid-back, easygoing style and an incredible, radar-like intuition about what people are thinking or feeling.(Pocono Racway)(6-7-2011)

Pocono Race becomes the 5-hour Energy 500: Pocono Raceway and 5-hour Energy announce the Sprint Cup Series race, to be held on Sunday, June 12 at "The Tricky Triangle," will be titled the "5-hour Energy 500." Representatives of 5-hour Energy will be stationed throughout the raceway, all weekend long, offering free samples of their 0 sugar, 4 calorie energy shot. Pocono marks the first time 5-hour Energy is sponsoring a race in NASCAR's Sprint Cup Series. The Michigan-based brand has a strong presence in NASCAR as the title sponsor for last year's Nationwide Series race in St. Louis and this year's Nationwide Series race in Dover. 5-hour Energy is also in its fourth season as primary sponsor for the Rusty Wallace Racing's #66 entry, driven by Steven Wallace.(Pocono Raceway)(6-5-2011)

Jimmie Johnson Pocono 500 Ticket Package: Pocono Raceway announced the “Jimmie Johnson Pocono Q&A Package,” available for purchase, for the 2011 Pocono 500. Race fans can chose from three Grandstand ticket packages, which include: an exclusive question and answer session with five-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Champion, Jimmie Johnson, a Grandstand ticket and a discounted Pre-Race Pit/Paddock Pass. The available packages are priced at $75 for a Concourse-level ticket, $105 for a Terrace-level ticket and $115 for a Terrace Platinum-level ticket. The Pre-Race Pit/Paddock Pass is good at designated times throughout the weekend and has been reduced to cost $30. Additionally, fans purchasing this package will receive access to Johnson’s Q&A Session, held inside Victory Lane, on Sunday, June 12th, at 10:15 a.m. prior to the start of the Pocono 500. Fans can purchase this ticket package by mentioning the “Jimmie Johnson Pocono Q&A Package” when calling 1-800-RACEWAY (722-3929) or when ordering online by clicking the Packages link at: www.poconoraceway.com/tickets.(Pocono Raceway)(5-31-2011)

Mother's Day Special at Pocono: Pocono Raceway is celebrating Mother's Day with a ticket sale. Show you mother how much you appreciated her by sending her to a live NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. Pocono Raceway has slashed their prices on grandstand tickets for both the Pocono and Pennsylvania 500's during this special offer! Concourse tickets are only $22.50 each and Terrace tickets are only $60 each. Tickets are limited to six (6) per order, per customer. Get yours today by clicking here and entering promo code "MOM11" or you can speak to one of our ticket representative at 1-800-RACEWAY!(Pocono Raceway)(5-6-2011)

Pocono Raceway to receive Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence: Pocono Raceway will be one of the recipients of the 2011 Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence, presented each year by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. The award highlights the best in environmental innovation and expertise throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. It is the highest statewide honor bestowed upon businesses and organizations for environmental performance and innovation.
Pocono Raceway is receiving this award for the development of a three megawatt, ground-mount photovoltaic solar energy system that went online in September 2010. The 25-acre solar installation, with its 39,960 photovoltaic modules drawing energy from the sun, has become the primary electric energy source for the Raceway while adding enough electricity to the local power grid to power 1,000 homes. The Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence will be added to a list of awards already bestowed on Pocono Raceway for its solar facility and other environmental initiatives.
The recipients will be honored at a dinner tonight (April 28) at the Hilton Hotel in Harrisburg, PA. The Honorable Michael Krancer, Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection, will serve as the keynote speaker and Richard Allan, Acting Secretary, Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources will speak. Janelle Stelson, News Anchor for WGAL, Channel 8 television will be the program emcee. Brandon Igdalsky, Raceway President and George Ewald, Raceway Vice-President will accept the award on behalf of Pocono Raceway.(Pocono Raceway)(4-29-2011)

Pocono Raceway Honored: The Pocono Raceway Solar Project has been recognized as the winner of the 2011 Excellence in Renewable Energy Awards, Readers Choice Award. Of the hundreds of nominees, The Pocono Raceway Solar Project was one of four finalists selected by the Renewable Energy World Network of Editors. Pocono Raceway’s Solar Project was recognized for its achievements in developing the world’s largest solar-powered sports facility. The award was announced at the Renewable Energy World Conference & Expo in Tampa, Florida on March 8, 2011.
The Renewable Energy World Conference & Expo has been a leading event in the renewable industry for eight years. Jim Callihan, President of RenewableEnergyWorld.com, said of the winner, “Pocono Raceway exemplifies the kind of company that will lead our economy to the next generation of energy excellence and make our planet a safer, cleaner place for the future.”(Pocono Raceway)(3-11-2011)

Qualifying for Pocono races switch to Saturday: The starting lineup for both NASCAR Sprint Cup Series events at Pocono Raceway in 2011 will be determined on Saturday. "The move to Saturday qualifying, traditionally held on Friday, will allow more race fans to enjoy the competition to determine the pole position and the other starting positions ," stated Raceway President, Brandon Igdalsky."Our fans will enjoy a full day of racing action as Sprint Cup qualifying joins an already exciting Saturday schedule at Pocono Raceway."
Qualifying for the June 12, Pocono 500, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event, will be held on Saturday, June 11. The Pocono 200, ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards event, will follow qualifying.
The August 7, Pennsylvania 500, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event weekend will feature two sets of qualifying and two 125 mile races on Saturday August 6; the Pocono Mountains 125, NASCAR Camping World Truck Series event and the Pennsylvania 125, ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards event. Qualifying for the Pocono Mountains 125 and the Pennsylvania 500 are scheduled for Saturday morning. The Pocono Mountains 125 and the Pennsylvania 125 races are scheduled for Saturday afternoon.
There will be no shortage of on track action on Friday of both race weekends. A total of close to five hours of practice for the Pocono 500 and Pocono 200, plus Pocono 200 qualifying will be featured on June 10. More than six hours of practice for the Pennsylvania 500, Pocono Mountains 125 and the Pennsylvania 125 are scheduled for August 5. Qualifying for the Pennsylvania 125 will follow practice on August 5.
Tickets for the Pocono 500 and Pennsylvania 500 weekends are on sale now. To purchase tickets call toll free 1-800-RACEWAY (1-800-722-3929) or online at www.poconoraceway.com.(Pocono Raceway)(1-17-2011)

Holiday tix sale at Pocono: Pocono Raceway has put 1,500 Grandstand & Club Tickets up for grabs at a discounted price. Whether you're buying for yourself or as a gift, this is the chance to experience all the thrills and excitement of a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race LIVE! Go to poconoraceway.com and use promo code SANTA to redeem your 15% discount. Only 1,500 tickets will be held for this Promotion. And Use promo code SANTA and receive 20% off your entire merchandise order (placed by 12/21 at midnight) at shop-poconoraceway.com.(Pocono Raceway)(12-18-2010)

One Million Kilowatt Hours of Electricity Produced at Pocono: Less than four months since energy production began at Pocono Raceway's solar farm, the total amount of electricity produced by the 25 acre facility reached the 1,000,000 kilowatt hour (kWh) mark. The solar installation consists of 39,960 American made photovoltaic modules that will produce more than 72 million kilowatt hours (kWh) of energy over the next 20 years. The environmental attributes associated with the system will offset more than 3,100 Metric Tons of carbon dioxide annually and will generate enough power to provide the electricity needs for over 1,000 homes beyond the power needs of Pocono Raceway.(Pocono PR)(12-10-2010)

Pocono Announces Multi-Million Dollar Improvements: On June 4th of this year, Pocono Raceway officials announced, safety improvements were to be in place for the 2011 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series events at the Pennsylvania Superspeedway. Work on those improvements; the installation of a SAFER (Steel and Foam Energy Reduction) barrier in the infield and a catch fence along the back stretch started in mid October and is expected to be completed by the year end.
The ‘new generation’ SAFER barrier, designed by Dr. Dean Sicking and his team at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Midwest Roadside Safety Facility and approved by NASCAR, will run on the entire length of the inside of the track from the exit of turn # 1 to the entrance of turn # 3, a total of 5,516 feet. Pocono Raceway already has SAFER barriers in place in each of the three turns that make up the ‘Tricky Triangle.’
The new catch fence will run from the end of the front stretch and connect with the existing catch fence in turn # 2, a total of 6,155 feet. A catch fence will now surround the entire 2.5 mile length of the race track. “These improvements are aimed at increased driver safety,” stated Brandon Igdalsky, Pocono Raceway President. “We had these projects in the planning stages, before the 2010 Pocono NASCAR Sprint Cup Series events took place.”
Ticket information is available online at www.poconoraceway.com or by calling the Raceway Ticket Office at 1-800-RACEWAY (1-800-722-3929)(Pocono Raceway)(11-30-2010)

Pocono may give up race date, in a few years: Pocono Raceway co-owner Dr. Joseph Mattioli told Sirius NASCAR Radio’s Sirius Speedway with Dave Moody Thursday that he might be willing to give up one of his track’s two race dates, but not in the near future. In recent comments to Yahoo! Sports reporter Brant James, Mattioli implied that two races were now too many for some tracks, including Pocono. However, he said he will retain his two Sprint Cup Series dates until at least 2013, when new NASCAR television contracts take effect. Asked if Pocono will be part of a rumored 2001 schedule shakeup, Mattioli replied, “absolutely not.”(Sirius Speedway)(8-1-2010)

Pocono Raceway Activates World's Largest Solar Powered Sports Facility: As the country begins to aggressively seek alternative energy sources, a significant new solar energy project is ready to flip the switch in what might be considered an unlikely place – a NASCAR racetrack in Long Pond, PA. Yet, considering the major sustainability programs being initiated throughout the NASCAR industry, the 3 megawatt ground-mount photovoltaic solar energy system at Pocono Raceway is completely in step with a sport taking major strides to preserve the environment. The 25-acre solar installation, located adjacent to the 2.5-mile race track, is so large it’s visible from outer space. With its 40,000 photovoltaic modules drawing energy from the sun, it will become the primary electric energy source for the race track while adding electricity to the local power grid.
The Pocono Raceway Solar Project, developed by enXco, and owned by Pocono Raceway, host of two annual NASCAR Sprint Cup Series summer events, is located along Long Pond Road adjacent to the storied raceway on land that previously served fan parking needs but is no longer used due to a reconfiguration of other parking lots on the property.
The installation consists of nearly 40,000 American made photovoltaic modules that will produce more than 72 million kilowatt hours (kWh) of energy over the next 20 years. The environmental attributes associated with the system will offset more than 3,104 Metric Tons of carbon dioxide annually and will generate enough power to provide the electricity needs for over 1,000 homes beyond the power needs of Pocono Raceway. Tickets are available for the Sunoco Red Cross Pennsylvania 500 by calling the Pocono Raceway Ticket office at 1-800-RACEWAY or visiting www.poconoraceway.com . Online purchasers have a print at home option. Tickets are also available at the gate.(Pocono Raceway)(7-31-2010)