What is a "Darlington stripe" Slang term for the black marks resulting from scrapes with the wall at the 1.366-mile track where the high lane is the fastest. Might be called the "SAFER stripe" this weekend after the addition of the energy-absorbing barriers

Darlington Double: three drivers have completed the Darlington sweep of the Nationwide and Sprint Cup races on the same weekend:
1987 - Dale Earnhardt
1993 - Mark Martin
2010 - Denny Hamlin.

2011 Pole Sitter: #4-Kasey Kahne, 181.254mph, finished 4th

Track Qualifying Record: Kasey Kahne, May 2011, 181.254mph

2011 Race Winner: #78-Regan Smith, 129.678mph, started 23rd

Track Race Record: Kyle Busch, May 2008, 140.350mph

Slowest Race Record: Fonty Flock, Sept 1952, 74.512mph

Oldest Winner: Harry Gant, 51 years, 7 months, 22 days, Sept 1991

Youngest Winner: Kyle Busch, 23 years, eight days, May 2008

Most Wins - Active Driver: Jeff Gordon, 7

Most Wins - All Time: David Pearson, 10

Most Poles - Active Driver: Bill Elliott, 5

Most Poles - All Time: David Pearson, 12

Most Wins - Owner: Rick Hendrick, 13

Most Top 5s: 25 - Richard Petty

Most Top 10s: 35 - Bill Elliott

Most Leaders: 20, 9/4/1994

Fewest Leaders: 2, 9/4/1950

Most Lead Changes: 41, 9/6/1982

Fewest Lead Changes: 4, 9/4/1950

Most Laps Led [500 miles]: Johnny Mantz, Sept 1950, 351 laps [of 367]

Most Laps Led [400 miles]: Richard Petty, April 1966, 281 laps [of 293]

Most Cautions: 17, May 2009

Most Caution Laps: 101, Sept 1974

Fewest Cautions: 0, Sept 1963

Fewest Caution Laps: 0, Sept 1963

Most Finishers on the Lead Lap: 23, Sept 2002

Fewest Finishers on the Lead Lap: 1 - 24 times, most recently 9/3/1979

Worst Starting Spot to Win: Johnny Mantz, Sept 1950, started 43rd [75 started, 3 abreast]

Most Wins by a Manufacturer: 38, Chevy

45 drivers have posted poles at Darlington

A total of 45 drivers have won Sprint Cup races at Darlington

Races won from the Pole: 19 of 108

Races won from the top 5: 67 of 108

Races won from the Top 10: 93 of 108

Races won from the Top 15: 102 of 108

Races won from outside the Top 10: 15 of 108

Cargill to Host "Darlington Signature Burger Event" Darlington Raceway and Cargill Beef are asking fans to submit recipes for the "Track Too Tough to Tame's" new signature hamburger. Fans will submit their favorite and most unique hamburger recipes, with the selected entries being prepared by Miss Sprint at an old fashioned race-day cook out on Saturday at the track prior to the Bojangles' Southern 500. The burgers will then be judged and a winner chosen by track president Chris Browning. "I'm excited for the opportunity to select the winner of this contest and see what kind of hamburger recipes our fans come up with," Browning said. "A hamburger is a staple with any camping or tailgating experience at a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race weekend at Darlington. As we all know, there are many different styles and varieties of hamburgers that are unique so it will be fun to see on Saturday what our fans can bring to the table." Fans can submit recipes to burgers@keystonemarketing.net. The winners will receive a family four-pack tailgate package at either next year's Darlington race, or the fall race at Martinsville Speedway on October 28, 2012. On Friday, May 11 the top-20 recipes from the submissions will be selected and sent to Cargill to narrow down to the final four. Then on Saturday, May 12 at 12:30pm, Miss Sprint will prepare the top-four burger recipes for the judges and the winner will become the new "signature hamburger" of Darlington Raceway. The event will take place in the infield behind the west concession stand, just inside Gate 11B.(Darlington Raceway)(5-9-2012)

Darlington Week in South Carolina: The week of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Bojangles' Southern 500 has once again been named "Darlington Raceway Week in South Carolina" after the South Carolina House of Representatives and Senate passed a concurrent Resolution. "This is a tremendous honor for everyone at Darlington Raceway," said Darlington Raceway President Chris Browning. "The Bojangles' Southern 500 brings people to South Carolina from all 50 states and several foreign countries and it is a great time to showcase our state with a worldwide television audience watching." The famed track's 63-year history is a major reason that the South Carolina Senate and House of Representatives passed the concurrent Resolution, led by state Senator Gerald Malloy, D-Hartsville.(Darlington Raceway)(5-6-2012)

Casey Weston to perform National Anthem at Darlington: Casey Weston, Nashville-based recording artist and former finalist on the popular TV show, "The Voice," will perform the National Anthem for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Bojangles' Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway on Saturday, May 12. Weston, originally from Naples, Fla., began her performing career six years ago with both original songs and covers. Both originals and covers were well received and her audiences continue to grow. In 2009, Weston released her first album, 10 songs on the self-titled "Casey Weston." Following the successful release of her first album, Weston auditioned on the popular show "The Voice" and was one of eight finalists in the inaugural season for the TV show sensation. Following her success on the "The Voice" Weston continues to stay in touch with her friend and coach Adam Levine, front man for Maroon 5. Tickets to the upcoming NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Bojangles' Southern 500 on May 12 and Nationwide Series VFW Sport Clips Help a Hero 200 on Friday, May 11 can be purchased by calling 866-459-7223 or by visiting DarlingtonRaceway.com. Remember, kids 17 and under are half off for the Bojangles' Southern 500 and FREE for the VFW Sport Clips Help a Hero 200.(Darlington Raceway)(5-2-2012)

A Taste of Darlington: A Taste of Darlington will return to Darlington Raceway on Thursday evening, April 19 from 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series garage area. The annual culinary event benefits the Darlington Downtown Revitalization Association (DDRA) and features some of the best cooks in the Darlington area. The event is usually attended by 500-700 local community members that enjoy great food and beverage at the annual festivities. For more than 20 years A Taste of Darlington has been a marquee event on the social calendar in the community. This year’s event will feature 15 grillers preparing main courses and over 15 stations featuring hors d’oeuvres and desserts. Walk-up tickets are available the day of the event for $30 each. The event is only open for guests 21 years of age or older. You can keep up with all of the latest news from Darlington Raceway at DarlingtonRaceway.com. Tickets for events at Darlington can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com/tickets/.(Darlington Raceway)(4-19-2012)

Darlington Raceway to honor Yarborough: With Cale Yarborough now having been inducted into the third class of the NASCAR's Hall of Fame, Darlington Raceway will celebrate and honor his achievements during the upcoming Sprint Cup Series Bojangles' Southern 500 race weekend on May 11-12. Darlington and the NASCAR Hall of Fame are partnering on a special ticket offer for fans, which will include an exclusive meet-and-greet and autograph session with the NASCAR legend and hometown hero from Timmonsville, S.C. For $59, each fan will receive a ticket in the Pearson grandstand for the Bojangles' Southern 500, a ticket to the NASCAR Hall of Fame (redeemable throughout the season), a 2012 Hall of Fame Yearbook and the opportunity to get up-close-and-personal with Yarborough on race day. The package is a savings of $36 if individual tickets were purchased for each venue separately. Packages can be purchased by calling 866-459-7223 or by visiting www.DarlingtonRaceway.com/congratscale. "Congratulations to Cale on his induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Cale is very deserving of his induction and his commitment and dedication to the growth and success of NASCAR and stock car racing is unparalleled," Darlington president Chris Browning said. "To have a hometown hero like Cale have success at the sports greatest level is wonderful for our state. We are proud of the fact that he still calls his native Timmonsville home and Darlington Raceway his hometown track." Yarborough will be on hand during the Bojangles' Southern 500 race weekend participating in various activities, including being honored during pre-race ceremonies for the track's 109th Sprint Cup race. Yarborough is from Timmonsville, just 15 miles from The Lady in Black, is a local hero to race fans of all generations who call Darlington County home, where they witnessed one of the greatest stock car drivers of his time win five Southern 500 races from 1968-1982.(Darlington Raceway)(4-7-2012)

Darlington offers new Too Tough to Tailgate Zone: Tailgating is a big part of the culture that race fans enjoy each and every time they visit Darlington Raceway. To accommodate the ever-growing demand for tailgating prior to the track’s events, the raceway is offering a new area outside turn two, the Too Tough to Tailgate Zone, specific for fans who are tailgating prior to the Bojangles’ Southern 500 on Saturday, May 12. For $50 per spot, fans will receive a 20x20 space in the Tailgate Zone, big enough to accommodate one passenger vehicle, a pop-up tent, tables, chairs and a grill. There are no limitations to how many guests can tailgate at the space. Admission to the Bojangles’ Southern 500 is not included in the price. Tickets to the race must be purchased when you order your tailgating spot in order to obtain admission. Additionally, the Darlington Raceway ticket office hours are changing to accommodate race fans that might not be able to purchase their tickets during normal business hours. From now until the race weekend, the ticket office will be open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets to the upcoming NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Bojangles’ Southern 500 and Nationwide Series VFW Sport Clips Help a Hero 200 can still be purchased anytime at DarlingtonRaceway.com.(Darlington Raceway)(2-27-2012)

Special Drive to End Hunger Ticket at Darlington Raceway: Race fans who are interested in supporting #24-Jeff Gordon in AARP’s and AARP Foundation’s Drive to End Hunger campaign and in turn receive a special opportunity to participate in a 15-minute question and answer session with the popular driver, Darlington Raceway has just the ticket. Darlington Raceway is offering a special AARP Drive to End Hunger ticket package for the upcoming NASCAR Sprint Cup Bojangles’ Southern 500 race on Saturday, May 12. For a special price of $124, each package will include a ticket to the Bojangles’ Southern 500, hospitality in the Drive to End Hunger tent, which includes food and beverage, and the opportunity to participate in the 15-minute Q&A session with Gordon, driver of the #24 Drive to End Hunger Chevrolet for Hendrick Motorsports. Packages can be purchased by visiting DarlingtonRaceway.com/drivetoendhunger or by calling 866-459-7223. Darlington and Americrown will donate to local food banks on behalf of Drive to End Hunger. AARP Foundation will work with Harvest Hope to receive the donations, which are expected to include bread, produce and other food items.(Darlington Raceway)(3-23-2012)

Bojangles to Sponsor Southern 500: Officials for Darlington Raceway and Bojangles announced a five-year deal Thursday at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, N.C for Bojangles to sponsor the Southern 500. The agreement means Bojangles will be offered at concession stands at the Darlington Raceway. Bojangles' menu is also available at four other tracks owned by International Speedway Corp. -- Daytona International Speedway, Talladega Motor Speedway, Martinsville Raceway and Richmond International Raceway. Darlington president Chris Browning says the agreement brings together two longtime Southern brands. The race had been sponsored by Showtime the past two years. The Bojangles' Southern 500 takes place Saturday, May 12. The Nationwide Series will race at Darlington on Friday, May 11.(wltx.com)(3-15-2012)

Darlington Raceway launches mobile web site: With nearly 95 percent of its race fans utilizing a cell phone for personal use, Darlington Raceway has launched its mobile web site, designed to keep fans updated with year-round news and race information for its upcoming NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Southern 500 race weekend on May 11-12. The mobile web site can be viewed by visiting DarlingtonRaceway.com from your Sprint Smartphone or other mobile devices including the iPhone and Blackberry. The new mobile web site gives fans access to the latest Darlington Raceway news and also provides the most recent race weekend information, including schedules, race day traffic and ticket information. Fans who are traveling to Darlington on race day can utilize the directions feature, which will map their route to the track with GPS navigation. The site also features a history section for fans to learn about the over 60 years of historical significance the track has played in NASCAR and to the state of South Carolina. Entry lists and starting lineups for the Southern 500 and Nationwide Series VFW Sport Clips Help a Hero 200 will also be posted on the mobile web site the week of the race.(Darlington Raceway)(3-6-2012)

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)

Darlington Raceway event help Toys for Tots: Fans of Darlington Raceway were in a giving mood this holiday season with several hundred participants donating a toy or $20 donation during the track’s Toys for Tots Drive recently. The event, which gave fans the opportunity to take their personal vehicles for laps around the historic Darlington Raceway for a donation, generated over $5,000 worth of toy and cash donations for the local U.S. Marines Toys for Tots program just in time for the holidays. The collection, the largest for the area’s U.S. Marines Toys for Tots program, will benefit five local counties surrounding the track, including Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Marion and Williamsburg, respectively.(Darlington Raceway)(12-19-2011)

Dennis Worden named Dir. Of Public Relations at Darlington: Darlington Raceway President Chris Browning announced the hiring of Dennis Worden as the track's Director of Public Relations. Worden begins his position immediately and will be responsible for coordinating all media relations efforts for NASCAR's original superspeedway. Worden spent the last 6 ½ years as the manager of public relations for Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, Mich. He coordinated the media relations efforts for MIS, as well as maintaining the track's website and its video and photography needs, among other duties. Overall, he brings nearly 12 years of media relations experience to Darlington Raceway with past stops at Hillsdale College (Mich.), Wayne State University in Detroit, Mich. and the University of Texas in Austin. In addition to the hiring of Worden, Browning has also announced the promotion of Sarah Hill as the track's new Consumer Marketing Coordinator. Hill will serve in the track's public relations department overseeing all social media initiatives and coordinating marketing and e-mail campaigns, among other duties.(Darlington Raceway)(12-10-2011)

Southern 500 tickets on sale: Tickets for the 2012 Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway go on sale to the general public beginning at 9:00 am on Friday, November 11. The NASCAR Nationwide Series and Sprint Cup Series are set to make their way to Darlington Raceway on Mother’s Day weekend, May 11-12, for their annual dance with the Lady in Black. Fans will notice several enhancements this year when ordering their tickets to Darlington Raceway, here are just a few:
· Special Youth Pricing – Darlington Raceway will offer half-price reserved seats at each event for youths 17 and under. All general admission seating at the NASCAR Nationwide Series Darlington 200 will be free for youths age 17 and under.
· Expanded Family Section Seating – Darlington Raceway has expanded its Family Section (alcohol and tobacco free seating) to include sections in all grandstands at the facility.
· Special Military Discount – Military members will pay just half price for grandstand seating at all events. Military members taking advantage of the half-price seating offer for the Southern 500 will also receive a special camouflage Darlington Raceway t-shirt that they are encouraged to wear on race day. Military members will be asked to stand in their seating area during pre-race ceremonies and be recognized by the crowd.
Tickets for events at Darlington can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com/tickets/.(Darlington Raceway)(11-10-2011)

Darlington cancels plans for historic car festival: Darlington Raceway has cancelled plans for its historic fall racing festival. Track spokesman Jake Harris said a lack of entrants led Darlington officials to call off this year's event. The raceway has held the gathering at the track for the past three years with former prominent NASCAR personalities like Harry Gant, Ned Jarrett, David Pearson and Darrell Waltrip taking part. Those attending heard panel discussions from past NASCAR greats and had autograph sessions. Entrants also got to drive parade laps around the track. Harris said the track had generally gotten between 100 and 135 car entries during the first three years, but had only a little more than 40 so far this year. Harris said track leaders plan to regroup and return with the festival in 2012.(The Item)(8-20-2011)

ICS tracks to donate unused foods: Jeff Gordon, International Speedway Corporation's Chief Executive Officer Lesa France Kennedy and Darlington Raceway President Chris Browning announced that, on behalf of Drive to End Hunger, Americrown, ISC's food and beverage concessions operator, will donate all extra food items from the Sprint Cup Series races it services to the local food bank that serves the race track area. Drive to End Hunger is AARP and AARP Foundation's national effort to end hunger for older Americans. Donations are expected to include breads, produce and other food items and will be prepared for delivery by Americrown on Mondays following ISC's NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races. The announcement follows ISC's donations at Daytona International Speedway of more than 7,000 pounds of excess food to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida following the 2011 Daytona 500; Talladega Superspeedway, which donated the extra food from its Aaron's Dream Weekend to the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama; and Richmond International Raceway Central which donated to the Central Virginia Food Bank.(ISC)(5-7-2011)

Ned Jarrett added to Darlington Legends Walk: Just days before his induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Ned Jarrett has been added to the Darlington Legends walk on the grounds of the famed 1.366-mile egg-shaped oval. "Ned Jarrett is known throughout NASCAR as one of the nicest and most talented drivers to ever compete on the Cup circuit," said Darlington Raceway President, Chris Browning. "Ned's two NASCAR Cup championships are an impressive feat as is his 14-lap victory in the 1965 Southern 500." Keeping with the historic racing theme present throughout the Darlington Raceway facility, each of the Darlington Legends Walk monuments resembles a Goodyear racing tire and old style pit board. Each monument is made of solid granite and marble and weighs nearly 2,300 pounds.(Darlington Raceway)(5-7-2011)

Bring-a-kid program celebrates 25 years at Darlington: Tommy DeWitt didn't quite know what he was getting himself into 25 years ago when he walked into the office of Red Tyler, then Darlington Raceway President, with a bold idea. DeWitt, who counted the track as a client of his pest control business, had an idea to fill the stands during the track's NASCAR Nationwide Series events. The idea: offer Nationwide race tickets and Christian fellowship to families through Darlington Raceway Ministries and the Welsh Neck Baptist Association. Tyler's response was immediate, "Let's do it." The program began small and grew, quickly. Managed by Tommy and his wife Linda since its inception in 1987, Bring-A-Kid has brought over 150,000 youths to Darlington Raceway for fellowship and racing. Each package includes a Nationwide Series race ticket, hot-dog, soda and a Christian themed program prior to the race. "Bring-A-Kid has grown to levels we could never have imagined back in 1987," said Linda Dewitt. "Tommy and I love being a part of this program and enjoy being a part of the kid's lives at Darlington Raceway."
"Tommy and Linda have poured so much of their heart and souls into this program at Darlington Raceway," said track President, Chris Browning. "Each year when they call to place their ticket order we are amazed at the number of youth they are bringing to the track." The DeWitts will be honored during the pre-race ceremonies of the upcoming Royal Purple 200 at Darlington Raceway. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com/tickets/.(Darlington Raceway)(5-5-2011)

Traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall on display at Darlington: Veterans and active members of America's armed services travel great distances and make great sacrifices to preserve and protect freedom and liberty and now race fans can honor these service men and women during the SHOWTIME Southern 500 weekend at Darlington Raceway. The American Veterans Traveling Tribute (AVTT) Traveling Wall will visit Darlington Raceway on Friday, May 6 from 9:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, May 7 from 10:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Fans are invited to attend a special wreath laying ceremony at the Wall at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, May 6. The Traveling Wall is an 80 percent scale version of the Vietnam Memorial in Washington D.C. Across its 370-foot length the wall contains every single name etched on the original. At its apex the memorial is an impressive eight-feet tall. The traveling wall was completed in early 1998 and began traveling that year. AVTT's traveling wall is the largest Wall replica traveling the United States. Race fans are encouraged to visit the display located in the display/vendor area behind the Tyler Tower grandstand. AVTT staff will be onsite and can assist fans in finding names of loved ones honored on the Traveling Wall display.(Darlington PR)(5-5-2011)

Updated amenities and entertainment options at Darlington: Race fans preparing to make the trip to Darlington Raceway for the NASCAR Nationwide Series Royal Purple 200 and Showtime Southern 500 this Mother's Day weekend will have plenty of updated amenities and entertainment options to look forward too at the track Too Tough To Tame. "Ensuring that our guests have the best possible experience while they are here is our number one priority," said Darlington Raceway, Chris Browning. "Everything we do focuses on that objective and we take pride in providing a unique, southern hospitality, experience."
Fans can look forward to the following items when they converge on Darlington Raceway this Mother's Day weekend:
· Way-finding Signage - Signage around the facility has been updated with new 3-D maps making it easier for fans to find their way around the 400-plus acre facility. Additionally, new parking lot marker signs have been added in the Petty Boulevard parking lot making it easier for fans to locate their vehicles.
· Redesigned Event Program - The Darlington Raceway Official Souvenir Program has been redesigned with value-minded fans in mind! Now only $5, each program features the same great content as previous year's programs but also has several money saving coupons, including $10 off a purchase at Americrown souvenir stands.
· Larger Cooler Size - Fans will now be permitted to bring in coolers measuring 14x14x14 (2,700 cubic inches) - six times larger than the size previously permitted. These coolers can typically hold up to 36 cans of Coca-Cola or other beverages. Coolers must be soft-sided and be free of wheels or telescoping handles but may have removable plastic liners.
· Darlington Car Hauler Parade Presented by Nationwide Insurance - The Darlington Car Hauler parade returns for its seventh run from the Florence Civic Center, through the Darlington Square, before entering Darlington Raceway. Race Fest gets underway at 4:00 p.m. at the Civic Center and the trucks depart at 7:00 p.m.
· Extended Darlington Raceway Museum and Pit Shop Hours - The Darlington Raceway Museum and Pit Shop will feature extended hours on race week and is stocked with all of the latest NASCAR gear from your favorite driver. Coupons from the Official Souvenir Program are valid on Pit Shop purchases. Take a stroll down memory lane while you are there with a visit to the Darlington Raceway Museum and National Motorsports Press Association Hall of Fame. For just $5 you can see some of the most fabled cars in NASCAR's 60-plus year history.
Darlington Raceway, or the track Too Tough To Tame as it is known to many, is where the purest of NASCAR competition meets true southern hospitality. A NASCAR staple since 1950, Darlington Raceway has seen some of motorsports most talented drivers thunder to Gatorade Victory Lane. On Mother's Day weekend, May 6-7, 2011, NASCAR's biggest stars return to battle the track Too Tough To Tame in the Sprint Cup Series Showtime Southern 500® and Nationwide Series Royal Purple 200. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com/tickets/.(Darlington Raceway)(5-5-2011)

Darlington Racway rededicates infield media center in honor of Jim Hunter: Darlington Raceway officials have rededicated the facility’s media center in honor of former track President and NASCAR Vice President of Corporate Communication, Jim Hunter. As part of the rededication, a plaque featuring a photo of the late Jim Hunter will be installed near the building’s main entrance. “Darlington Raceway meant so much to Jim, he looked forward to coming back to his home track each spring,” said Ann Hunter, wife of the late Jim Hunter. “I am happy that his memory will continue to live on for years to come at the track that was so special to him.” The Jim Hunter Media Center was built in 1997 and has served as the hub of media coverage of Darlington’s race weekends ever since. Tickets for this weeks races can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com/tickets/.(Darlington Raceway)(5-3-2011)

Ticket Options for Darlington: The 2011 Showtime Southern 500 weekend at Darlington Raceway will be even more fan-friendly with special ticket pricing and new seating sections geared towards families and military service men and women. The new pricing structure will include discounted youth tickets for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Showtime Southern 500 for the first time in the track’s 60-plus year history. Fan-friendly ticketing options for 2011 include:
New Youth Pricing – All youths, 17 and under, are free in general admission seating for the NASCAR Nationwide Series Royal Purple 200 and just half price in reserved seating for the Royal Purple 200 and NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Showtime Southern 500.
Expanded Family Sections –Family Sections are now located in each grandstand and are alcohol and tobacco free.
New Military Pricing – Active and retired service men and women can purchase tickets to any Darlington Raceway event for just half price. Each Showtime Southern 500 military ticket order will receive a free Darlington Raceway camouflage t-shirt. All military members are encouraged to wear these shirts on Showtime Southern 500 race day in order to be recognized during pre-race ceremonies.
Experience Nationwide Race Day as a VIP: New in 2011, the T4 Zone is VIP fan hospitality for the Royal Purple 200 and includes: admission to the T4 Zone tent from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm, pre-race pit access, full meal and snacks, unlimited soda and water until scheduled race start, two beer coupons to all guests 21 years of age and older with valid ID, Darlington-branded gift and official souvenir program.
Earn your Stripe in the Darlington Stripe Zone: The Stripe Zone returns in 2011 and as the ultimate Showtime Southern 500 VIP fan hospitality and includes: a pre-race pit pass, appearance from a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver, full meal and snacks, unlimited soda and water until scheduled race start, four beer coupons to all guests 21 years of age and older with valid ID, Darlington-branded gift, official souvenir program and live entertainment.
For more information on ticket packages or to purchase tickets, call the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or go online at darlingtonraceway.com/tickets/.(Darlington Raceway)(4-21-2011)

Darlington weekend has positive impact on civic groups: The arrival of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series in the Pee Dee Region of South Carolina means a big economic impact on the entire area. A 2009 study estimated the annual economic impact of Darlington Raceway at $54 million across the state. In addition to that $54 million impact, local civic groups also benefit greatly from Darlington Raceway. On a Sprint Cup race weekend the track and Americrown - the official concessionaire and souvenir provider of Darlington Raceway - employ more than 40 local civic groups to staff various posts around the track including concession stands, guest service tents, parking lots and entrance gates, among other things. For their time and effort these groups each receive a donation to help support their organization. In 2010 Darlington Raceway and Americrown donations to local groups exceeded $100,000.(Darlington Raceway)(4-19-2011)

Darlington and NASCAR Hall of Fame partner for ticket package: Darlington Raceway and the NASCAR Hall of Fame have partnered to bring fans a special ticket package for the Showtime Southern 500, honoring 2011 Hall of Fame inductees and South Carolina natives David Pearson and Bud Moore.
Each package includes a seat in the Pearson grandstand for the Showtime Southern 500 on Saturday, May 7, admission to aspecial Q&A session with Pearson and Moore prior to the race, admission to the NASCAR Hall of Fame and a commemorative yearbook honoring – Bill France Sr., Bill France Jr., Richard Petty, Junior Johnson and Dale Earnhardt – the members of the Inaugural 2010 NASCAR Hall of Fame class. Only 500 packages are available and can be purchased by visiting DarlingtonRaceway.com/HallofFame or calling 866-459-RACE. Adult packages can be purchased for $90 each; packages for kids 17 and under are just $50. Tickets can bepurchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com.(Darlington Raceway)(3-22-2011)

Darlington Truck tickets on sale now: With the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series season underway it means that the Too Tough To Tame 200 is just around the corner, and tickets to the event are becoming one of the hottest items in town. The tough trucks of the Camping World Truck Series are set to return to the famed 1.366-mile egg-shaped oval for the Too Tough To Tame 200 on Saturday, March 12 with the green-flag scheduled for 5:00 pm. In addition to the 200-mile race, the trucks will also practice and qualify giving fans a unique opportunity to take in a one-day show at Darlington Raceway. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at http://www.darlingtonraceway.com/tickets/.(Darlington)(2-23-2010)

Darlington Raceway donated life saving equipment: Darlington Raceway recently donated life saving extrication equipment to the Darlington City Fire Department. In a ceremony on the start-finish line at the famed facility, track President Chris Browning presented Fire Chief Jim Stone and Assistant Chief Robert Garland with the new AMKUS equipment. “The new equipment will help our department train fire fighters for emergency situations they will see in the field and save lives in the community,” said Fire Chief Stone. “We are very grateful for the generosity of Darlington Raceway.”
“The Darlington City Fire Department has been an invaluable resource at the track for many years and I am happy we were able to help them by donating this equipment,” said Browning. “I am glad that the department will be able to use this equipment to help save lives in the Darlington community.” The AMKUS equipment will be added to the city’s new pumper truck, which was recently purchased by the department. The new $275,000 truck was put into service on December 27, 2010. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com.(Darlington Raceway)(1-24-2011)

NASCAR Legends honored with Palmetto Patriot: Darlington Raceway president Chris Browning was awarded theprestigious Palmetto Patriot award by Lieutenant Governor Andre Bauer during a ceremony at the famed track on Friday. In addition to Browning, NASCAR legends David Pearson, Bud Moore, Cale Yarborough and Cotton Owens – all South Carolina natives – were also honored along with former Darlington track president and NASCAR Executive, the late Jim Hunter and his wife Ann. “I am humbled and honored to accept the Palmetto Patriot award on behalf of Darlington Raceway,” said Browning. “Darlington Raceway has played an integral role in the growth and popularity of NASCAR racing and is one of our state’s most treasured assets.” The Palmetto Patriot Program recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to their fellow citizens and the State of South Carolina. The Palmetto Patriot Award is given for one's commitment to public service within their state and community. The award is the highest the Lieutenant Governor can bestow. Tickets for all Darlington races / events can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com.(Darlington Raceway)(12-17-2010)

Ticket Price Changes at Darlington: Preparations are already underway for the 2011 NASCAR season at Darlington Raceway. With a schedule featuring all three NASCAR National Touring Series, 2011 is sure to be an unforgettable year at the track Too Tough To Tame. It was announced in August that the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series would return for the Too Tough To Tame 200 on Saturday, March 12 while the NASCAR Nationwide Series and Sprint Cup Series will return on Mother’s Day weekend, May 6-7, for the Royal Purple 200 and SHOWTIME Southern 500. Also new in 2011, military members will pay just half price for all seating including grandstand seating for the Sprint Cup Series SHOWTIME Southern 500. Military members taking advantage of the half price seating offer for the SHOWTIME Southern 500 will also receive a special camouflage Darlington Raceway t-shirt that they are encouraged to wear on race day. Military members will be asked to stand in their seating area during pre-race ceremonies and be recognized by the crowd. Tickets for the 2011 season at Darlington Raceway are on-sale to the general public. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com/tickets/.(Darlington Raceway)(12-4-2010)

Southern 500 Tickets on sale: Tickets for the 2011 season at Darlington Raceway wnet on-sale to the general public Saturday, November 13. The 2011 season at Darlington Raceway will get underway on Saturday, March 12 when the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series makes its return for the Too Tough To Tame 200 for the second consecutive year. The NASCAR Nationwide Series and Sprint Cup Series are set to make their way to Darlington Raceway on Mother’s Day weekend, May 6-7, for their annual dance with the Lady in Black.
Fans will notice several enhancements this year when ordering their tickets to Darlington Raceway, here are just a few:
· New Youth Pricing – For the first time in the track’s storied history Darlington Raceway will offer half-price reserved seats at each event for youths 17 and under. All general admission seating at the Too Tough To Tame 200 and Royal Purple 200 will be free for youths age 17 and under.
· Expanded Family Section Seating – Darlington Raceway has expanded its Family Section (alcohol and tobacco free seating) to include sections in all grandstands at the facility.
· New Cooler Policy – Darlington Raceway has increased the size allowance for personal coolers being brought into the facility. Fans can now carry in a 14 x 14 x 14 soft-sided cooler with removable hard liner. The new cooler size gives fans six times more storage for food and beverage than under the previous policy.
· Special Military Discount – Military members will pay just half price for grandstand seating at all events. Military members taking advantage of the half price seating offer for the SHOWTIME Southern 500 will also receive a special camouflage Darlington Raceway t-shirt that they are encouraged to wear on race day. Military members will be asked to stand in their seating area during pre-race ceremonies and be recognized by the crowd.
· Special Military NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Offer – A special military package is being offered for the Too Tough ToTame 200 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race for just $7 that includes a general admission seat and pre-race pit pass.
Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com.(11-14-2010)

GEICO partners with ISC tracks on camping areas: International Speedway Corporation announced an unprecedented partnership with GEICO Insurance at seven of its premier racing facilities nationwide. Beginning in 2011, the five year deal will provide GEICO with promotional and entitlement rights for camping areas at: Daytona International Speedway; Darlington Raceway; Chicagoland Speedway; Homestead-Miami Speedway; Phoenix International Raceway; Talladega Superspeedway; and Watkins Glen International. Under the terms of the agreement, GEICO will receive on-site signage and branding.(ICS)(11-2-2010)

Southern 500 returns on Mother's Day weekend: The mother of all races, the SHOWTIME Southern 500, will once again be run under the lights at Darlington Raceway on Mother’s Day weekend, May 7, 2011. The 62nd running of NASCAR’s most storied event will take the green-flag at approximately 7:30 pm. The May NASCAR weekend at Darlington will kick off with a full day of Nationwide and Sprint Cup Series action on Friday, May 6 capped off with the NASCAR Nationwide Series Royal Purple 200 that evening. The NASCAR Camping World Truck Series will also return to Darlington in 2011 for the second consecutive year. The Too Tough To Tame 200 is scheduled for Saturday, March 12, 2011 and will be the only NASCAR National Series event that weekend. Ticket renewal information will be sent to current ticket holders soon with a ticket on sale date expected late this fall. Seat request orders are being taken now for fans not eligible for renewals. To place a seat request order visit DarlingtonRaceway.com or call 866-459-RACE.(Darlington Raceway)(8-19-2010)

Midnight Blue performing concert before Darlington truck race: Local rock group Midway Blue has signed on to perform a pre-race concert prior to the Too Tough To Tame 200 at Darlington Raceway on August 14. After first coming together in late 2008, Midway Blue began touring throughout South Carolina and recently won the top prize on the SPEED program Fast Track To Fame. The pre-race concert is free of charge and will begin at 6:00 pm and will take place on the driver introduction stage at the start finish line.(Darlington Raceway)(8-13-2010)

Darlington Truck Race Tix for sale: With the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series set to make its return to Darlington Raceway in just over a month, tickets to the event are becoming one of the hottest items in town. The tough trucks of the Camping World Truck Series are set to return to the famed 1.366-mile egg-shaped oval for the Too Tough To Tame 200 on Saturday, August 14 at 7:30 pm. In addition to the 200-mile race the trucks will also practice and qualify giving fans a unique opportunity to take in a one-day show at Darlington Raceway. Tickets for the event include practice and qualifying as well as the race and can be purchased for just $25 while children 12 and under are admitted for free with a paying adult. Pre-race pit passes can also be purchased for an additional $15 per adult or $5 for children 17 and under. All pre-race pit passes include an autograph session on pit road with the drivers participating in the Too Tough To Tame 200. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com.(Darlington Raceway)(7-14-2010)

Darlington's NASCAR agreement is late: Darlington Raceway president Chris Browning isn’t sure how possible changes to next year’s Sprint Cup schedule would affect the track’s race date. The track’s Cup date has been Mother’s Day weekend since 2005 and the track has had success with it. The first four races sold out. “I feel like the date has worked very well for us,” Browning said. “And we don’t have reason to believe the date will be changed, but those kind of decisions are made over my head.” Browning said he hasn’t received the sanctioning agreements, which say when the track’s date will be. In the past, Browning usually has had them by now. NASCAR president Brian France said last week International Speedway Corporation, Darlington’s parent company, and Speedway Motorsports Inc. both have petitioned NAS-CAR to have dates realigned. ISC wants a second date for Kansas Speedway and SMI has wanted a Cup date for Kentucky the last few years. The company also wants a second date for Las Vegas. The schedule is likely to be released sometime near Labor Day. Browning said he hopes to stay with the Mother’s Day weekend date, but would prepare to promote whatever date is given to the track.(Morning News)(7-11-2010)

Denny Hamlin wins at Darlington: #11-Denny Hamlin won the Showtime Southern 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Darlington Raceway for his 3rd race of 2010 and 11th of his career. He also won the Nationwide race Friday night. It was his first weekend sweep in Nationwide and Cup. Pole sitter #1-Jamie McMurray finished 2nd, followed by #2-Busch, #24-Gordon, #42-Montoya, #29-Harvick, #18-Busch, #31-Burton, #39-Newman, and #83-Vickers. Harvick extended his points lead to 110 over #48-Johnson, who was involved in a wreck with #43-Allmendinger midway through the race and finished 36th. There were 20 lead changes among 11 drivers and 11 cautions for 56 yellow flag laps.
See race results, awards, laps led and more on Jayski's Darlington Race Results/Awards page
See Drivers Championship Points standings on Jayski's Drivers Points Standings page.(5-8-2010)

Inside NASCAR hosts to be Darlington grand marshalls: The hosts of the new SHOWTIME Sports series Inside NASCAR will be literally all over Darlington Raceway for the SHOWTIME Southern 500 weekend serving as Grand Marshalls and participating in numerous pre-race festivities. Plus, legendary mixed martial arts pioneer Frank Shamrock and world-ranked heavyweight contender Brett Rogers will be on hand to experience NASCAR Sprint Cup racing at its best and to represent Strikeforce, one of the world's leading MMA promoters. The Inside NASCAR cast of Michael Waltrip, Randy Pemberton, Chris Myers and Brad Daugherty will meet fans, participate in Q&A sessions and sign autographs at the SHOWTIME display area on Saturday at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. for one hour each session. Shamrock and Rogers also will meet fans and sign autographs at the SHOWTIME Sports display area on Saturday from 3 p.m. As Grand Marshalls, Waltrip, Pemberton and Daugherty will introduce the mothers of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers to give the command to start their engines prior to the SHOWTIME Southern 500. Pemberton will then make his way to the flag stand to wave the green-flag to start 500-miles of heart-pounding racing under the lights at the track "Too Tough To Tame."(Darlington PR)(5-6-2010)

Facility improvements hightlight Darlington race weekend: Fans attending the 2010 SHOWTIME Southern 500 this weekend will notice several facility improvements around Darlington Raceway. Many of the improvements are a direct result of feedback received from Darlington's passionate fans. When the green-flag drops on the Royal Purple 200 presented by O'Reilly Auto Parts on Friday and the SHOWTIME Southern 500 on Saturday it will be from a new illuminated flag stand. The new flag stand, installed during the off-season, features illuminated signage to showcase Darlington Raceway sponsors. Fans sitting in the Pearson grandstand in turn four will notice new and improved restroom facilities that will help decrease wait times during this weekend's events. The facilities are also equipped with water-saving technology to reduce the number of gallons of water used in the track's restrooms. New parking lot signage has been added to the track's lots at Gate 40 off of Highway 151 that will make finding cars easier after a long night of racing at the track "Too Tough To Tame." The signs all feature legendary NASCAR drivers including South Carolina natives, Cale Yarborough and David Pearson. Finally, Darlington Raceway expanded its family section seating to include sections on the frontstretch and backstretch. Each Family Section offers a non-smoking, non-drinking, family friendly atmosphere for the 2010 events at Darlington Raceway.(Darlington PR)(5-5-2010)

ETV Profiles "The Lady in Black" on May 6th: On Thursday, May 6 at 9:00pm/et, just one day before drivers once again take to the track "Too Tough To Tame," ETV premieres its newest "Carolina Stories" documentary, "The Lady in Black." Encore broadcasts will air on Sunday, May 9 at 4:00pm/et on ETV and Monday, May 10 at 9:00pm/et on the South Carolina Channel. Using a blend of original and NASCAR footage from the archives, this fast-paced program tracks the history of the Darlington Raceway, as told by the true legends of the sport, including Cale Yarborough, Cotton Owens, Junior Johnson, and David Pearson as well as some of today's biggest names, such as Jeff Gordon, Jeff Burton, Mark Martin, Richard Childress, and the "Iron Man" of the Nationwide Series, Jason Keller. And thanks to Baker Curb Racing, ETV gives fans a rare opportunity to go behind-the-scenes, riding along in the big rig as the #27 car is brought through the tunnel, and then prepared for the big race. Keller was driving for Baker Curb Racing in 2009 when the documentary was shot, and this year the Greenville native is closing in on his 500th start, which very well might take place at Darlington. Interviews with everyone from track officials to fans who have been returning to camp in the infield year after year, help define what makes Darlington so unique, and has become the single biggest weekend event in the Palmetto State. ETV is South Carolina’s statewide network with 11 television stations, eight radio stations and a closed-circuit educational telecommunications system in more than 2000 schools, colleges, businesses, and government agencies.(PR)(5-4-2010)

Tickets available for Darlington races: The 2010 Showtime Southern 500 is only days away and time is dwindling for fans who have not yet purchased their tickets to see NASCAR’s oldest tradition live. Tickets remain available for the event which has hosted a capacity crowd four of the last five years. During the offseason Darlington Raceway officials reduced prices on over 40,000 seats making the 2010 event the most affordable on record. Tickets can be purchased by calling 866-459-RACE, online at Darlington Raceway.com or by visiting the ticket office at the track “Too Tough To Tame.” Phones are open from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm, the ticket office at the track will be open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm and fans can purchase online 24 hours-a-day.(Darlington Raceway)(5-4-2010)

Petty & Earnhardt added to Darlington Legends Walk: Just days before their induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt have both been added to the Darlington Legends walk on the grounds of the famed 1.366-mile egg-shaped oval. “Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt were obvious choices when we looked at who should be added to the Legends Walk,” said Darlington Raceway President, Chris Browning. “Petty was one of the pioneers of NASCAR and paved the way for the fan-driver interaction we know today. Earnhardt certainly left his mark on NASCAR and is still second on the all-time Darlington victory list with nine victories. Both drivers loved racing here and we are happy to honor them.” Keeping with the historic racing theme present throughout the Darlington Raceway facility, each of the Darlington Legends Walk monuments resembles a Goodyear racing tire and old style pit board. Each monument is made of solid granite and marble and weighs nearly 2,300 pounds. This is the third consecutive year new monuments have been added and the track plans to continue adding new monuments each year. “This is a great way for Darlington to put some of the history of NASCAR and our track on display for fans to enjoy,” said Browning. “The history of Darlington Raceway is so rich and we are going to do everything we can to preserve it for many generations to come.” Darlington Raceway Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com/tickets/.(Darlington Raceway)(5-4-2010)

Showtime Southern 500 week declared: The week of the Showtime Southern 500 has once again been named Darlington Raceway week in South Carolina. The South Carolina Senate and House of Representatives recently passed a Concurrent Resolution decaling race week “Darlington Raceway Week in South Carolina, a week ‘Too Tough To Tame.’” The famed track’s 60 year history is a major reason that the South Carolina Senate and House of Representatives passed this Concurrent Resolution. The Resolution outlines the historical significance of Darlington Raceway and addresses the role the track played in building the foundation of what has become the number one spectator sport in the country. The Showtime Southern 500 week will shift into high-gear on Thursday with the sixth annual Car Hauler Parade making its way from the Florence Civic Center through the Darlington Square and finishing at the track. The racing action will rev up on Friday with a full day of on-track activity scheduled including practice and qualifying for the Sprint Cup and Nationwide Series and the NASCAR Nationwide Series Royal Purple 200 presented by O’Reilly Auto Parts on Friday night. Saturday the Showtime Southern 500 will take the green-flag at 7:30 pm [actually around 7:44pm/et]. with NASCAR’s biggest stars battling for the Johnny Mantz Showtime Southern 500 trophy under the lights. Tickets for both Friday and Saturday are still available and can be purchased by calling 866-459-RACE or at the track’s website, DarlingtonRaceway.com.(Darlington Raceway)(5-3-2010)

Darlington ticket office open on weekends: The Darlington Raceway ticket office will open during the weekend to make ticket purchases more convenient and accessible for race fans. The ticket office will be open every Saturday and Sunday leading up to the SHOWTIME Southern 500 on May 8, 2010. Beginning Saturday, April 10, the ticket office will be open for fans to purchase their tickets. The weekend hours will be 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Saturdays and 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. on Sundays. The track's normal business hours of 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. will continue Monday through Friday. Tickets can also be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at http://www.darlingtonraceway.com/tickets/.(Darlington PR)(4-10-2010)

Darlington racing green: The green flag will be greener than ever as it signals the start of the Darlington 200 and Southern 500 races at Darlington Raceway May 7-8. For the first time, all the electrical needs of these NASCAR races will be met with 100 percent Green Power. The raceway dubbed “Too Tough To Tame” goes green that weekend with the help of Santee Cooper and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. Darlington Raceway has purchased Green-e Energy Certified Green Power blocks and tags offered by Pee Dee Electric Cooperative and Santee Cooper. Toy Nettles, president and CEO of Pee Dee Electric Cooperative, said, “Pee Dee Electric Cooperative is extremely proud to partner with Darlington Raceway in providing 100% Green Power for the entire NASCAR weekend, including the Darlington 200 and the fan favorite Southern 500. These races will be run under the glow of the “Green-e” logo and all the rigorous standards it represents.” Santee Cooper has over 21 megawatts of clean, renewable Green Power from sources including landfill biogas and solar power. In fact, Santee Cooper is the only utility generating Green Power in South Carolina, and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative promotes Green Power sales to its 30,000 customers. Green-e Marketplace provides forward-thinking organizations with a simple, nationally recognized logo they can use to communicate their commitment to renewable energy to their customers and shareholders. The Green-e logo is the nation’s leading symbol of renewable energy excellence and distinguishes Green-e Marketplace participants as environmental leaders. Green-e is a program of Center for Resource Solutions, a nonprofit that creates policy and market solutions to advance sustainable energy. To learn more, visit Center for Resource Solutions and Green-e Marketplace. Incorporated in 1939, Pee Dee Electric Cooperative serves parts of six counties in northeastern South Carolina. The 30,000-plus members of the electric distribution co-op live in Darlington, Marion, Florence, Lee, Dillon and Chesterfield counties.(Darlington Raceway)(4-5-2010)

Showtime to sponsor Southern 500: Showtime Networks Inc., the home of popular cable series like "Dexter" and "Weeds," agreed to a multiyear deal to become the title sponsor for Darlington Raceway's Southern 500. "I think they bring a lot to the table," track president Chris Browning told The Associated Press, ahead of an official announcement expected later Monday. This is a first for Showtime, which launched its "Inside NASCAR" program in February. Ken Hershman, executive vice president and general manager of Showtime Sports, said the sponsorship is the next step in linking the network with one of the country's most popular sports. The May 8 race will be known as the Showtime Southern 500. Like many sporting events, Darlington Raceway has struggled to find corporate backing in a floundering economy. Showtime will be Darlington's third title sponsor in the past three races, after a five-year deal with the Carolina Dodge Dealers ended in 2008. Last year, Browning signed GoDaddy.com to underwrite the event about a month before the green flag dropped. "Inside NASCAR" is a weekly highlights and analysis show along the lines of its "Inside the NFL" series. The NASCAR show is hosted by Chris Myers, Randy Pemberton, former NBA star Brad Daugherty and driver Michael Waltrip. Getting more than a one-year commitment from Showtime means both the network and the track can take full advantage of each other's resources leading up to the 2011 race. One wrinkle is a contest where a viewer can win a VIP experience to Darlington's race on Mother's Day Weekend. Showtime spokesman Chris DeBlasio said along with an up-close look at the Sprint Cup race, the winner will show up in Victory Lane and be presented a replica of the trophy that will go to the race champion. The network also expects to have a hospitality tent for fans on Darlington grounds, with perhaps some celebrities from its cable shows popping by.(AP/ESPN)
AND: Showtime, which debuted its “Inside NASCAR” show last month, is climbing deeper into the sport by title-sponsoring the Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway. The sponsorship is a multiyear agreement between the network and the historic track.(Sports Business Journal)(3-30-2010)

Darlington Expands family section: Darlington Raceway will expand its family section seating for the 2010 Southern 500 announced track President, Chris Browning. Family sections will now be available on both straight-aways at Darlington Raceway. Wallace grandstand section V on the frontstretch and Colvin grandstand section X on the backstretch will be designated family sections. Each family section will be designated as a non-smoking, non-drinking seating option geared towards families. Family seating can be purchased today by contacting the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or visiting DarlingtonRaceway.com.(Darlington PR)(1-31-2010)

Darlington President wins Littlejohn Award: Darlington Raceway President, Chris Browning, was award the prestigious Joe Littlejohn award at the 2010 National Motorsport Press Association convention in Concord, N.C. Browning, who has served as Darlington Raceway President since 2004, was selected by the members of the NMPA because of his commitment and dedication to motorsports. During his tenure at Darlington, Browning has made the NMPA Hall of Fame - located in the Darlington Raceway Museum - a top priority and has overseen numerous facility improvements. The Joe Littlejohn award is given annually to an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the NMPA and motorsports.(Darlington Raceway)(1-29-2010)

Trucks to race at Darlington? UPDATE: Sirius NASCAR Radio's Sirius Speedway with host Dave Moody is reporting that the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series will compete at Darlington Raceway in August of this year, as a replacement for the now-canceled event at the Milwaukee Mile. Expect an official announcement during this week's NASCAR portion of the annual Media Tour.(Sirius Speedway PR)(1-19-2010)
UPDATE: been told that the date of the race will be August 14, 2010.(1-20-2010)
UPDATE: The NASCAR Camping World Truck Series will make a return to the track “Too Tough to Tame” on August 14, 2010 announced. “Our fans have asked us to bring back the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series because Darlington is a perfect fit for the tough racing the series offers,” said Darlington President Chris Browning. “We are excited to be able to bring back the trucks in 2010 and look forward to putting on a memorable show for all of our fans.” The NASCAR Camping World Truck Series raced at Darlington Raceway from 2001-04. The late Bobby Hamilton won the Inaugural event in 2001 and again in 2003. Ted Musgrave raced to Victory Lane in 2002 and Sprint Cup driver Kasey Kahne took the checkered flag in 2004 – the series’ last visit to the track. General admission seating is available for only $25 and children 12 and under will be admitted free. Each admission includes all practice and qualifying sessions as well as the Too Tough to Tame 200 which is set to take the green-flag at approximately 7:30 p.m. In addition to grandstand seating, fans may also purchase a pre-race pit pass for just $15 each. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at http://www.darlingtonraceway.com/tickets/.(Darlington Raceway)(1-20-2010)

Darlington opens ticket kiosk in Myrtle Beach: Darlington Raceway has opened up a ticket kiosk location in the popular Tanger Outlet center located on Highway 17 in Myrtle Beach, S.C. The kiosk opened the week of Thanksgiving and will remain open for the remainder of the year. Fans taking advantage of the opportunity to purchase tickets at the Tanger Outlet kiosk location will receive a DVD copy of the 2009 Southern 500. The race, won by fan favorite Mark Martin, was the marquee event during Darlington Raceway's 60th Season of Racing. Tickets to the 2010 Southern 500, as well as the NASCAR Nationwide Series Darlington 200 are on-sale now. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at http://www.darlingtonraceway.com/tickets/.(Darlington PR)(12-11-2009)

Darlington Raceway receives Landscape Design Award: Darlington Raceway has received the prestigious Landscape Design Award from the Landscape Critics Council of South Carolina. The award is given annually to a business in the state of South Carolina that exhibits well manicured and unique landscape displays. The award is voted on by members of the Landscape Critics Council of South Carolina. Darlington’s new tunnel entrance, infield camping areas, hospitality village and main administration entrance played a large role in swaying voters to select Darlington Raceway as the Landscape Design Award winner. Tickets to the 2010 Southern 500, as well as the NASCAR Nationwide Series Darlington 200 are on-sale now. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com.(Darlington Raceway)(10-26-2009)

Darlington reduces price on 40,000 seats: Tickets for the 2010 Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway go on-sale to the public this Saturday, October 10. The famed 500-mile race will once again take place on Saturday night of Mother's Day weekend and will be preceded by the Diamond Hill Plywood 200 on Friday evening. Fans purchasing tickets for the 2010 installment of the Southern 500 will notice new, lower prices in nearly every grandstand at Darlington Raceway. Officials at Darlington reduced ticket prices on over 40,000 seats during the off-season making attending the Southern 500 more affordable than ever. With ticket prices starting as low as $35 night-racing at Darlington is the best value on the Sprint Cup Circuit. Tickets for both events and the Darlington Stripe Zone can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at http://www.darlingtonraceway.com/tickets/.(Darlington Raceway PR)(10-8-2009)