Daytona 500 will have purse of more than $19 Million: The 54th annual Daytona 500 on Sunday, Feb. 26 will carry a record purse of more than $19 million as well as a new contingency award that will payout $200,000 to the driver leading at the completion of Lap 100. The posted awards for "The Great American Race" are $19,142,601 with the winner collecting a minimum of $1,431,325. The second, third, fourth and fifth-place finishers in the Daytona 500 will receive a minimum of $1,050,075, $759,600, $609,900 and $486,550. The Daytona 500 Mid-Race Leader Award will reward the driver leading the midway point of the historic 200-lap, 500-mile race with a $200,000 bonus. If the race is under caution at Lap 100, the leader of the race at the completion of the fifth consecutive green flag lap following the caution will receive the award.(DIS)(2-2-2012)
NASCAR starting Speedweeks with restrictor plate that ended test: NASCAR will return to Daytona International Speedway in February with the same restrictor plate that it left with when testing ended earlier this month. Teams were informed Friday of the rules configuration for Daytona, which includes a restrictor plate with holes 29/32nds of an inch in diameter. In hopes of limiting the use of the two-car draft used by the Sprint Cup cars during the Daytona 500, NASCAR officials have made changes that they hope would result in overheating if the two-car draft is used for an extended period of time during the race. The biggest change is the rear bumper has been moved two inches closer to the ground. Teams will have a front grille opening of 50 square inches - it was 40 square inches by the time testing ended last week at the 2.5-mile trioval. The radiator pressure release valve will be set at 25 psi, the same as it was when teams left Daytona on the final afternoon of testing.(Scene Daily)(1-23-2012)
NASCAR close to finalizing Daytona package: Sprint Cup preseason testing ended at Daytona International Speedway Saturday afternoon with NASCAR saying it has a good handle on a workable rules package for February Speedweeks. Officials made numerous modifications during three days of testing at the 2.5-mile track with the aim of lessening driver dependence on the tandem drafting that have ruled racing at Daytona and Talladega in recent events. NASCAR and track officials seemed pleased with the results of the three days after drivers ran in single-car, double-car and pack formations. NASCAR compiled stacks of data during the test runs and expects to issue a final rules package for Speedweeks soon. There is the expectation that Speedweeks events - particularly the featured Feb. 26 Daytona 500 - will see more traditional pack racing and less tandem drafting, although the cars' setups remain such that the two-car draft could decide the race over the closing laps.(SPEED)(1-15-2012)
Thunderbirds to perform flyover for Daytona 500: The world-renowned U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will provide race fans with the flyover during the National Anthem for the 54th annual Daytona 500 - the prestigious season-opening event for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 26 at Daytona International Speedway. It's the third time the flying team, officially known as the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, will perform the flyover for the Daytona 500. The Thunderbirds previously flew over the race in 2008 and 2011. The Thunderbirds flyover will feature six F-16 Fighting Falcons, the Air Force's premier multi-role fighter aircraft, soaring over the speedway at the moment the final notes of the Star-Spangled Banner are sung.(DIS)(1-14-2012)
NASCAR makes more rule changes: UPDATE - additional changes: If NASCAR's objective was to eliminate tandem drafting at restrictor-plate racetracks, it remains a work in progress, based on Thursday's first Preseason Thunder test session at Daytona International Speedway. Accordingly, in a meeting with crew chiefs at approximately 5:30 p.m. Thursday, NASCAR announced additional modifications to a restrictor-plate competition package that already had undergone major changes in the offseason. Even though Kyle Busch topped the speed chart in Thursday afternoon's Preseason Thunder test session at Daytona International Speedway at 202.402 mph-in a tandem draft with Joe Gibbs Racing teammate Joey Logano-NASCAR will make the cars faster, less stable and more prone to overheating on Friday. The sanctioning body increased the diameter of restrictor-plate openings 1/32nd of an inch to 15/16ths inches, adding an estimated 26 horsepower to the engines. In addition, NASCAR has lowered the pressure relief valve settings from 30 pounds per square inch to 25 psi and narrowed the grille openings of the cars, thereby decreasing airflow to the engine. Both measures are designed to decrease the number of laps one car can push another without overheating.(Sporting News)(1-12-2012)
UPDATE: NASCAR announced more changes for Sprint Cup Series teams after the second day of testing at Daytona International Speedway on Friday. Teams will receive a smaller restrictor plate with an opening of 29/32nd of an inch, down from 15/16ths, to decrease the amount of air intake to the engine. The radiator opening was shrunk from 3.5-by-18 inches to 2-by-20 inches, or from 63 square inches to 40. And the pressure relief valve is now 21 pounds per square inch from the 25psi they used Friday. The top speed in Friday's test session was set 90 minutes into the afternoon by Kurt Busch. He ran a 206.058-mph average lap working in tandem with his regular drafting partner, Regan Smith. Busch hit 210.9 mph down the backstretch, the fastest portion of the track.(Fox Sports)(1-13-2012)
DIS Promotes Two Long-Time Executives: Daytona International Speedway announced today the promotion of two long-time executives at the “World Center of Racing.” Pete D’Agresta has been named Senior Director of Facility Operations and John Power has been named Senior Director of Security. Both executives report to Daytona International Speedway Vice President of Operations Andrew Gurtis. The promotions became effective earlier this month. Information on all Daytona International Speedway events is available online at daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.(DIS)(12-24-2011)
Daytona teams up with Harvick and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation for special Daytona 500 offer: Daytona International Speedway has once again joined forces with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) for a special ticket package that will deliver the excitement of NASCAR's most prestigious race - the Daytona 500 - as well as benefit an important cause. And this year, Daytona has upped the ante by also partnering with 2007 Daytona 500 Champion Kevin Harvick. The NFFF ticket package, which starts at $119 for adults and $79 for children 12 and under, includes a race ticket to the 54th annual Daytona 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, Feb. 26, admission to the FIRE STATION 500 hospitality tent, and an appearance by Harvick. A portion of the proceeds from each NFFF ticket package purchase will be donated to the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation, a tax-exempt, non-profit organization created by the United States Congress to lead a nationwide effort to remember America's fallen firefighters. Since 1992, NFFF has developed and expanded programs to honor fallen fire heroes and assist their families and co-workers. To purchase this special package, race fans should call 1-877-306-RACE or visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com/nfff. For more information on the Foundation, visit www.firehero.org.(DIS)(12-21-2011)
Changes for restrictor plate racing at Preseason-Testing: Preseason Thunder Testing for the Sprint Cup Series is Jan. 12-13-14 at Daytona International Speedway for final preparations for 2012 Speedweeks, in particular, the running of the 54th annual Daytona 500 – Sunday, Feb. 26, 2012. Rules package is a result of information gathered during recent tests at Talladega (October) and Daytona (November) the new rules package includes:
Smaller radiator - Maximum of 2 gallon capacity
Smaller overflow tank - Maximum capacity of ½ gallon
Radiator inlet is moved up closer into the front center bumper area
Rate reduction in the springs – softer springs
Smaller rear spoiler
Base line restrictor plate of 29/32 inch (1/64 inch larger than plate size for the 2011 Daytona 500)(NASCAR)
AND NASCAR has issued a new technical bulletin to its Sprint Cup teams, detailing major changes to cooling systems for 2012 Speedweeks at Daytona International Speedway in an effort to better regulate tandem drafting. According to Chris Paulson, president and owner of C&R Racing Inc. -- which manufactures nearly all of the radiators used in NASCAR's premier series -- the sanctioning body will be significantly reducing the size of the radiators and changing the location of the grille openings before the cars return for Daytona testing in January. "[Sprint Cup Series director] John Darby is implementing a two-gallon maximum radiator size," Paulson said. "So in other words, the big, huge five-gallon radiators everybody's running will be down to two. And that accumulator can was a one-gallon max volume. It's going down to a half-gallon-sized can." The idea is to make the cooling systems less efficient, Paulson said, forcing the cars to run in open air to keep water temperatures down. "We'll probably see some result from that, but it's not going to be huge, mainly because they've got these things figured out now," Paulson said. "But it's still going to have an effect. The bigger effect is going to be moving the grille opening up to the bumper fascia area. Because now when they're tucked up behind another car, they're really going to kill all the air. So I think they're on the right track with that. They'll get the result that way."(NASCAR.com)(12-16-2011)
Daytona Preseason Thunder Fan Fest tickets on sale Wednesday: Race fans can purchase tickets for the popular Preseason Thunder Fan Fest at Daytona International Speedway beginning on Wednesday, Nov. 30 at 9 a.m. The stars of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series will take to the legendary 2.5-mile tri-oval at Daytona International Speedway for three days of testing on Thursday, Jan. 12 through Sunday, Jan. 14. The Preseason Thunder Fan Fest sessions are scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 12 and Friday, Jan. 13 and include autograph sessions, driver question and answer sessions, show cars and displays, music and a photo opportunity with the 2012 Harley J. Earl Daytona 500 trophy. In addition, fans can ride the high banks under the lights by purchasing a Richard Petty Driving Experience ride along. Tickets for Daytona Preseason Thunder Fan Fest are $20 and available by calling 1-800-PITSHOP or online at www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com. Children 12 and under will receive free admission.(DIS)(11-29-2011)
Daytona International Speedway Offers “Black Friday” and “Cyber Monday” Ticket Specials: Race fans can give the gift of racing excitement at Daytona International Speedway with the “World Center of Racing’s” “Black Friday” and “Cyber Monday” Thanksgiving holiday ticket specials. On Friday, Nov. 25 (Black Friday) and Monday, Nov. 28 (Cyber Monday), Daytona International Speedway will have the following $49 ticket package specials available for race fans to select from as they conduct their holiday shopping: To take advantage of the “Black Friday” and Cyber Monday” ticket specials, race fans can call 1-800-PITSHOP between 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. or visit daytonainternationalspeedway.com/deals.(DIS)(11-22-2011)
Nemechek runs 203mph at Daytona test....alone: #87-Joe Nemechek, a driver/car owner, reached 203 mph without a drafting partner during Tuesday's test session at Daytona International Speedway. The day was supposed to belong to NASCAR as it tested various setups in an effort to break up the two-car tandem draft. But instead, Nemechek was the talk of the garage and what it might mean for qualifying if Tuesday's changes are implemented for the Feb. 26 Daytona 500. "We were changing the restrictor plates and all kinds of stuff," Nemechek said. "I mean, (the speed is) just the product of putting more horsepower to the back tires. I think we're going to be quite a bit faster when we come back here for qualifying day. It's going to be interesting. All the teams are going to have to do some more homework." Nemechek was testing with Triad Engine Development, a North Carolina-based company. "We were using a 1 1/16-inch plate and a 3-inch radius spoiler," Triad Racing Development head engine builder Jon Dysinger said. "This was better than we expected."(Daytona Beach News Journal)(11-16-2011)
Aerodynamic testing at Daytona UPDATE comments: NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams are scheduled to test at Daytona International Speedway in an effort to evaluate and prepare aerodynamic baseline packages for the January 12-14, 2012 Preseason Thunder Test at DIS. Testing is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 15th from 10 am - 5 pm/et. Teams scheduled to participate include: Hendrick Motorsports (two cars with drivers Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Aric Almirola); Roush Fenway Racing (two cars with drivers David Ragan and Marcos Ambrose); Joe Gibbs Racing (one car with driver Joey Logano), Michael Waltrip Racing (one car with driver Martin Truex Jr.), and NEMCO Motorsports (one car with driver Joe Nemechek). A section of the Oldfield Grandstands will be open free to the public with access available through the lobby of the Daytona International Speedway ticket office.(DIS)(11-11/15-2011)
UPDATE: Seven NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams turned laps at the high banks of Daytona International Speedway Tuesday, seeking the best baseline aerodynamic package for next January's Preseason Thunder Test at "The World Center of Racing."
Teams participating in Tuesday's test included Hendrick Motorsports (Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Aric Almirola); Roush Fenway Racing (David Ragan and Marcos Ambrose); Joe Gibbs Racing (Joey Logano); Michael Waltrip Racing (Martin Truex Jr.); and NEMCO Motorsports (Joe Nemechek).
After the track was dried following an early morning rain shower, teams first got on the track at 11:45 a.m. The initial restrictor plate size was 29/32 inch and the initial spoiler size was 4 ½ inches tall, 63 inches wide, which was the same spoiler size for last July's NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Daytona. By day's end, the size of the rear spoiler had been reduced to 3 inches tall by 62 inches wide. The smaller spoiler results in less down force and drag, but still allows the cars to maintain high speeds and remain under control.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. (#88 Diet Mountain Dew/National Guard Chevy), a 13-time race winner at Daytona, said Tuesday's test session was a "positive step in finding a solution to the drafting style at Daytona."
"I did not anticipate finding a magical solution here today, but we will be much better off and a lot smarter about things by having tested," said Earnhardt. "This is just part of the work that needs to get done. There are a lot of creative minds out here. We're learning what we need to know. I think we're all in agreement that we probably won't totally rid ourselves of the tandem racing, but I'm confident we can get to the point where it will not be the norm."
Martin Truex Jr. (#56 NAPA Auto Parts Toyota), a two-time NASCAR Nationwide Series champion and solid restrictor plate racer, said there was a lot of mixing and matching going on in the garage this afternoon. "We tried several different packages out there today and what we're trying to do is put an end to this two-car draft, or at least make it so we can only get together for a lap or two and have to switch or run in a pack," said Truex. "NASCAR is being smart about all of this and they are going through some steps to see if the changes that we're making will result in what they think they will be."
John Darby, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Director, said that Tuesday's test should allow NASCAR the ability to formulate a solid baseline aerodynamic package that teams can work on heading into next January's three-day test session at DIS, Jan. 12-14. "One of our goals is to give the teams more options when it comes to how they draft and we believe we're headed in the right direction on that," said Darby. "We want to be able to reduce the difference in the speeds between the tandem style of racing and more of the pack style of racing and we made a lot of good progress on that here today."
Both Earnhardt and Truex agreed that the transition to Electronic Fuel Injection in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series is right on track. The sport's premier series will implement EFI beginning at Daytona next season. "The computer guys like what they've seen so far with the EFI test and I'll tell you what, when I've tested the EFI car, it drives as well or better than the carburetor cars," said Earnhardt. "To be honest with you, if you didn't know it when you got into the car, you couldn't tell a difference," said Truex. "The only thing that's different is the way it starts. You don't have to pump the gas like a normal carburetor. You just flip the switch and crank it up like a street car."(NASCAR)(11-15-2011)
AND: Toyota NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) Daytona Test -- Notes & Quotes from #20-Joey Logano:
Q) What have you learned so far from today's test session at Daytona?
Logano: "We learned that when you take a spoiler out of a race car at Daytona it makes the car go faster. We were going 206 or 207 or so. We've been doing that, taking the rear spring out of the car and just taking downforce away from these things. Trying to get away from that two-car draft. We're slowly getting away from the two-car draft, making it harder to do it. I guess we've made gains today because that's what NASCAR is looking for."
Q) Have you noticed a difference with the new electronic fuel injection in the race car?
Logano: "No, we can't really tell much at all, but that's a good thing.(Toyota Racing)(11-16-2011)
Auto Racing could be Florida's state sport: This summer, The News-Journal asked readers what Florida's official state sport should be. We have an official state reptile, pie and bird -- why not an official state sport? Sen. Evelyn Lynn, R-Ormond Beach, immediately knew the answer. She said she would file legislation to make auto racing the official state sport, and she's done just that. Senate Bill 266 designates "automobile racing" as the official state sport. If the Legislature adopts it during the session that begins Jan. 10, it would take effect next July 1 -- just in time for NASCAR's summer return to Daytona International Speedway.(Daytona Beach News-Journal)(11-6-2011)
Daytona fans tired of tandem racing: A post-race survey following July's Coke Zero 400 suggested a growing number of race fans are becoming weary of tandem racing, Daytona International Speedway President Joie Chitwood III said Wednesday. After the race, the Speedway sent surveys to 1,000 race fans, asking them to rate 12 points of their experience. The survey covers everything from the quality of food to restrooms to parking and the race itself. Chitwood said the results from the Guest Experience Management survey showed two-thirds of fans would recommend a race to friends and only 8 percent were dissatisfied. While overall the marks were high, the survey showed the number of fans who were dissatisfied with the race itself grew from 3 percent last year to 10 percent this year. Chitwood attributed that to fans growing bored with tandem racing, in which two cars run nose to tail to increase speed, instead of racing in a pack. "The two-by-two racing was a novelty that has worn off," Chitwood told The News-Journal editorial board.(Daytona Beach News Journal)(10-14-2011)
Daytona testing dates set for January: NASCAR Preseason Thunder, the annual three-day NASCAR Sprint Cup Series test session at Daytona International Speedway in advance of the prestigious season-opening 54th annual Daytona 500, will be held on Jan. 12-14. All NASCAR Preseason Thunder test sessions begin at 9 am and end at 5 pm, weather permitting. Each includes a lunch break from noon until 1 pm. Race fans can also rev up their new year at the NASCAR Preseason Thunder Fan Fest – the companion event to the January test sessions. Along with watching NASCAR Preseason Thunder track activity from the Sprint FANZONE, fans can enjoy two Fan Fest driver sessions – from 5-9 p.m., on Thursday, Jan. 12 and from 5-7 p.m., on Friday, Jan. 13.
The schedule of driver question-and-answer and autograph sessions will be finalized closer to the event. Tickets for the NASCAR Preseason Thunder Fan Fest, which include autograph session wristbands, will be available for purchase at a later date. For fans who would like to be contacted regarding NASCAR Preseason Thunder Fan Fest ticket information can sign up online at www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com/thunder. Fans can also watch each day’s testing at no cost from a section of the Oldfield Grandstands. Information on tickets for both the NASCAR Preseason Thunder and the Roar Before The Rolex 24 will be available online at daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.(DIS)(9-29-2011)
Daytona International Speedway Receives FPRA Golden Image Award: The public relations and marketing department of Daytona International Speedway was honored with a prestigious 2011 Golden Image Award from the Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) for its 2010 Daytona Repave public relations program. The Golden Image Awards competition, which is conducted annually by the FPRA, recognizes PR professionals from around the state of Florida for programs and projects that represent the very best examples of innovation, planning and design in public relations. Daytona International Speedway earned the Golden Image Award in the Public Relations Programs category for Special Events. Lane Construction used an estimated 50,000 tons of asphalt to repave more than 1.4 million square feet of Daytona International Speedway between June and December of 2010. It was only the second time in the track’s history that it was repaved. Tickets for Speedweeks 2012 and the 54th annual Daytona 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, Feb. 26 are available online at http://www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.(DIS)(8-22-2011)
Will two-by-two racing continue at Daytona/Talladega?: from a NASCAR Transcript of a Q&A held at Kentucky Speedway
Q. Last week was another two-by-two race at a restrictor plate track. Some drivers were critical of that style of racing again. Are you satisfied enough with it to the point where there's still no changes planned or do anything that would break that up, or is that being looked at or considered at all?
ROBIN PEMBERTON: That's a good question and it's a tough question. I think if you look over time, whether it was two-by-two, single-file, pack racing, whatever you want to call it over the last number of years, you will always have critics no matter what you do. But we have had great statistics. We've had a lot of leaders, a lot of lead changes. The competition is great. I think it's too close to the checkered flag from the Coke Zero 400 other than us gathering our thoughts about that, you know. But I'm sure we'll put some folks together and we'll talk about it. But there will always be those that will be critical. I never saw anybody or a driver get out of a car after a wreck and compliment how things were going. I haven't seen it yet.
So, you know, there's elements of that that are different. It takes a while to digest that. There's quite a few folks that opinions have changed over the course of time. It's only been since we started the repaved racetracks. It's a backhanded compliment to how smooth the surfaces are at Daytona and Talladega that this type of racing has evolved. It's not necessarily anything new on the cars, whether it be the Nationwide or the Cup cars. The Trucks haven't had any change in the last few years, and they're starting to master that drafting technique. It's going to continue to evolve and we'll keep an eye on it and see what comes out of this. But we talk about all types of racing, not just restrictor plate stuff, when events get done.(NASCAR)(7-9-2011)
Daytona to donate extra food from Coke Zero 400: On behalf of Drive to End Hunger, AARP and AARP Foundation’s nationwide initiative to end hunger among older Americans, Daytona International Speedway President Joie Chitwood III today announced that Daytona will donate all extra food items from the Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Volusia County. The donation is expected to include breads, produce and other food items and will be delivered on Tuesday, July 5 with help from Americrown, the catering and concessions subsidiary of parent company International Speedway Corporation. Drive to End Hunger is a national effort that also includes an innovative grant program that will provide more resources to address this problem at the local level; mobilization of NASCAR fans, sponsors, their customers, AARP and AARP Foundation volunteers to address the problem of senior hunger through community service and direct donations to food banks; and research on the causes and the consequences of hunger in older Americans.(DIS)(7-2-2011)
Daytona International Speedway To Recognize Space Shuttle Program: In honor of the final flight of the Space Shuttle program – STS-135 Space Shuttle Atlantis scheduled for July 8 – Daytona International Speedway will pay tribute to NASA’s Space Shuttle program during the 53rd annual Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Saturday, July 2. United States Navy Commander and Astronaut Dominic “Tony” Antonelli, who has served as pilot of both STS-119 Space Shuttle Discovery in 2009 and STS-132 Space Shuttle Atlantis in 2010, will serve as Honorary Starter for the mid-summer classic.
As Honorary Starter, Antonelli will be introduced at the driver’s meeting, participate in the driver introductions and wave the green flag for the Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola. Antonelli will also make appearances in the Coke Zero Club and 31 Degrees hospitality venues prior to the start of the race. Antonelli has logged a total of 24 days, 3 hours, 57 minutes and 35 seconds in space. In his first mission as pilot of STS-119 Space Shuttle Discovery in March 2009, he was part of the crew that delivered the S6 Integrated Truss Segment and the final pair of power-generating solar array wings to the International Space Station.
Aboard STS-132 Space Shuttle Atlantis in 2010, Antonelli was part of the crew that delivered an Integrated Cargo Carrier and a Russian-build Mini Research Module to the Station. In addition to Antonelli’s role as Honorary Starter, Daytona International Speedway will show a video tribute to NASA’s Space Shuttle program during pre-race ceremonies. To purchase tickets for the Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola, call 1-800-PITSHOP or visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com.(DIS)(7-1-2011)
Daytona 500: The Inside Story to premiere Thursday night: NASCAR comes to HD Theater [check listings for channel number] this summer with the heart-pounding special, Daytona 500: The Inside Story. The one-hour documentary, produced by award-winning NASCAR Media Group, will offer viewer’s an exclusive look back at the unforgettable 53rd installment of motorsports’ most iconic race. This year’s running was one of the most emotionally-charged in NASCAR history, as it marked the tenth anniversary of the legendary Dale Earnhardt’s death on the track’s final turn at the 2001 Daytona 500. While race fans reflected upon this tragic event, the upset victory of an unlikely rookie emerged as the serendipitous backstory to this tale of the track. Daytona 500: The Inside Story on June 30 at 9:00pm/et/pt. With Daytona 500: The Inside Story , NASCAR Media Group captures an unforgettable week of tributes to the late Earnhardt that ended with Trevor Bayne’s unthinkable drive into Victory Lane. This one-hour documentary delivers never-before-seen footage, extensive pit-to-car radio communication and exclusive interviews with some of NASCAR’s biggest names.(Discovery)(6-30-2011)
Florida State Head Football Coach Named Grand Marshal For The Coke Zero 400: Jimbo Fisher, head football coach for the Florida State Seminoles, will serve as Grand Marshal for the 53rd annual Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Saturday night, July 2. Fisher will give the starting command, “Gentlemen start your engines,” in Saturday’s 160-lap, 400-mile race. He’ll also be introduced at the driver’s meeting, participate in the driver introductions and ride in one of the Grand Marshal cars during the pace laps prior to the green flag. Fisher just completed his first season as head coach at Florida State with a 10-4 record. Fisher led the Seminoles to their first 10-win season since 2003, a victory over in-state rival Florida, an appearance in the Atlantic Coast Conference championship game and a victory in the Chick-Fil-A Bowl in Atlanta. Between 2007-09, Fisher served as offensive coordinator and quarterback coach for the Seminoles. Prior to joining Florida State, Fisher served as offensive coordinator at Louisiana State between 2000-06 and helped lead the Tigers to the National Championship in 2003. Fisher has also served as an assistant at Samford, Auburn and Cincinnati.
The Coke Zero brand selected Coach Fisher for this honor, as Florida State will be one of many prominent schools featured in the brand’s fall program around college football rivalries. “I’m extremely honored and excited,” Fisher said. “I’ve been a huge NASCAR fan my entire life. Being able to go to Daytona, where it all started in racing, is a very special privilege and something I’m really looking forward to. I consider this a great honor and I want to thank Coca-Cola for allowing me to represent Florida State.” To purchase tickets for the Coke Zero 400 Weekend Powered By Coca-Cola, call 1-800-PITSHOP or visit daytonainternationalspeedway.com.(DIS)(6-29-2011)
Fireworks at Daytona: Following Saturday’s Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola, Daytona International Speedway will showcase the largest fireworks show in the Southeast. The 15-minute show will be shot from 15 different locations spread across the infield along the Superstretch. Here are some interesting numbers behind the show:
-- Shell size ranging from 1” to 8”
-- 10,000+ lbs of explosive powder
-- 11,000 individual explosions
The type of shells range from traditional type shells such as Chrysanthemum, Peonies, Dahlias, Willows and Salutes and specialty shells such as, Smiley Faces, Star Patterns, Double Rings, 4 Color Changing, Shell of Shells, Crossettes, Strobing Diadems, Twilight Glitters and vibrant new pastel colors. The finale will last for approximately one minute, 30 seconds and will have over 2,000 individual pieces. The show uses enough control wire to wrap a lap around the 2.5-mile track. To purchase tickets for the Coke Zero 400 Weekend Powered By Coca-Cola, call 1-800-PITSHOP or visit daytonainternationalspeedway.com.(DIS)(6-29-2011)
Bubba The Love Sponge Named Honorary Pace Coke Zero 400 Car Driver: The renowned nationally syndicated radio personality Bubba The Love Sponge will serve as Honorary Pace Car driver for the 53rd annual Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Saturday, July 2 and will participate in a special ticket package built around the Independence Day holiday weekend. As Honorary Pace Car driver, Bubba will be behind the wheel of the Dodge Charger pace car as he leads the 43-car field to the green flag for the 160-lap, 400-mile Independence Day holiday classic under the lights at Daytona. In addition to Bubba's role as Honorary Pace Car driver, a special Bubba Army Tailgate ticket package has been created for the Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola. With packages starting at $104, admission to the outdoor infield tailgate area includes:
o Grandstand ticket for the Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola on Saturday, July 2
o Designated infield tailgate parking
o Three drink tickets for beer, wine, soda or water
o NASCAR celebrity appearances and special giveaways
o Appearances by Bubba The Love Sponge and Bubba The Love Sponge Show personalities
o Happy hour specials
o Live entertainment and games
Race fans that have already purchased a Coke Zero 400 ticket can upgrade their experience with the tailgating package for $60. An avid motorsports enthusiast and supporter of NASCAR, Bubba hosts the popular Bubba the Love Sponge Show, broadcast nationwide on terrestrial radio. He owns four Radio & Records DJ of the Year awards and six Billboard Rock Air Personality of the Year honors.
To purchase tickets for the special Bubba Army Tailgate ticket package for the Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola, call 1-800-PITSHOP or visit daytonainternationalspeedway.com.(DIS)(6-24-2011)
Martina McBride to return to Daytona in July: Fresh off her stirring rendition of the National Anthem for the season-opening 53rd running of the Daytona 500, country music star Martina McBride will return to Daytona International Speedway when the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series makes its second visit to the "World Center of Racing" McBride will perform a 60-minute pre-race concert prior to the 53rd annual Coke Zero 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Saturday night, July 2. All race fans that purchase a Pre-Race/Sprint FANZONE access pass for the Coke Zero 400 in addition to a race ticket will be able to view McBride's Coke Zero 400 Pre-Race Show as well as the driver introductions from the grass tri-oval area. Tickets for the Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola are available online at www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.(DIS)(6-23-2011)
DIS To Honor Four Medal of Honor Recipients During Coke Zero 400: As the nation celebrates the Independence Day holiday weekend, Daytona International Speedway and tens of thousands of race fans in attendance for the Coke Zero 400 Weekend Powered By Coca-Cola will pay tribute to four Medal of Honor recipients. It's the third straight year that Daytona International Speedway will honor Medal of Honor recipients, a program that was first started by Bill France Sr. back in the 1970s.
The Medal of Honor recipients, all from the Vietnam War, to be honored are:
* Jon Cavaiani, retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant
* Harold Fritz, retired U.S. Army Captain
* Don Jenkins, retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant
* Leo Thorsness, retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel
All four Medal of Honor recipients will be recognized during a special luncheon on Friday at the Bill France Room, will attend driver's meetings and participate in pre-race ceremonies for both the Subway Jalapeno 250 Powered By Coca-Cola NASCAR Nationwide Series race on Friday night, July 1 and the Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Saturday night, July 2. During Saturday's 53rd annual Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola, a special salute will take place for the four Medal of Honor recipients during pre-race ceremonies. In addition, the four Medal of Honor recipients will take part in an autograph session with race fans in the Sprint FANZONE on Saturday prior to the Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola.
The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded by the United States government. It's bestowed on a member of the United States armed forces who distinguishes himself or herself conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his or her life above and beyond the call of duty while engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States. Tickets for the Coke Zero 400 Weekend Powered By Coca-Cola are available on online at daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.(DIS)(6-21-2011)
Area Hotels Offer Discounted Rates with No Minimum Night Stays for Coke Zero 400: Daytona International Speedway recently launched a new promotion with area hotels to provide race fans with the best deals possible when they attend the Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola July 1 and 2. During the month of June, fans who book their stays at participating hotels will receive at least a 10% discount off regular rates. Also, these hotels will not require a minimum night stay to participate in the promotion - the discounted rates are good for one night or multiple nights.
Participating hotels include the Bahama House and Best Western Aku Tiki in Daytona Beach, the Hampton Inn and Clarion Hotel in Deland (approximately 20 miles from the speedway), and the Marriott and Westin hotels in Lake Mary (approximately 35 miles from the speedway). A complete list of participating hotels and special promotional codes can be found on www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com/hotels.(DIS)(6-20-2011)
Budweiser renews with Daytona: Budweiser will continue to serve as both the exclusive official beer sponsor of Daytona International Speedway and the entitlement sponsor for the Budweiser Shootout following a multi-year partnership renewal. As part of the agreement, Budweiser will also begin a non-exclusive promotional partnership with Homestead-Miami Speedway in 2012. Under the terms of the agreement, Budweiser will maintain signage rights for all events at Daytona International Speedway including Speedweeks, the Daytona 500 and the Coke Zero 400, as well as the naming rights of the infield concession area – the Budweiser Bistro – and the Budweiser Party Porch located adjacent to the Superstretch. Budweiser has served as the entitlement sponsor of the Budweiser Shootout, the star-studded non-points race that kicks off the stock car portion of Speedweeks, since 1979 when the event was originally known as the “Busch Clash.” Budweiser began serving as the official beer sponsor of Daytona International Speedway in 2006. Budweiser’s promotional partnership with Homestead-Miami Speedway will include race tickets and hospitality assets with the purpose of activating in-market sweepstakes, facilitating ticket giveaways and capitalizing on a retail point-of-sale presence throughout the Florida region. For tickets to all Daytona International Speedway events, call 1-800-PITSHOP or visit daytonainternationalspeedway.com (DIS)(5-23-2011)
Daytona 500 Tickets Go On Sale May 14th: Tickets to NASCAR’s biggest, richest and most prestigious race – the 54th annual Daytona 500 on Sunday, Feb. 26 – will go on sale Saturday, May 14 at 9:00 am/et. Prior to Saturday, May 14, only renewals for the 2012 Daytona 500 were accepted by the ticket office. The Speedway is also introducing a new feature for the 54th Daytona 500 - special youth pricing. Children 12 and under will receive 50 percent off all Superstretch grandstand seats for the Daytona 500. The special offer expires Feb. 1.
In addition to the youth pricing, the Speedway is offering new camping packages and amenities during Speedweeks 2012. Two-day camping options are now available in the GEICO Grounds Horseshoe for only $599 and GEICO Caveman Tent Campground for $399. Guests can now choose from 10-day premium sites, five-day standard sites or our new two-day campsites entering on Saturday, February 25 at 6 a.m.
Cable and electric hook-ups have been added to the first row of GEICO Grounds Yellow RV sites 1-89 and race fans can enjoy the convenience of expanded drive in/out privileges for even more races including the Budweiser Shootout and Daytona 500 Qualifying Presented By Kroger.
In addition to the 54th annual Daytona 500, tickets for all Speedweeks 2012 events will be available for purchase including the NASCAR Nationwide Series 300, the NextEra Energy Resources 250 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race, the Gatorade Duel, the Budweiser Shootout and Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 doubleheader, Daytona 500 Qualifying Presented By Kroger and the historic 50th anniversary of the Rolex 24 At Daytona.
To celebrate the historic 50th anniversary of the Rolex 24 At Daytona on Jan. 28-29, racing legend A.J. Foyt will deliver the command “Drivers, start your engines” as Grand Marshal, and Speedway officials have launched a campaign to locate all Rolex 24 At Daytona overall winning cars for a show-stopping heritage display.
Race fans have three different ways to purchase tickets.
· Online at www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com
· Calling 1-800-PITSHOP
· Visiting the Daytona International Speedway ticket office
Also available for purchase through www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com or 1-800-PITSHOP are:
· Hospitality packages and Pre-Race/Sprint FANZONE passes for all Speedweeks 2012 events.
· Tickets for the upcoming Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola Weekend on July 1-2, including the Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola on Saturday, July 2 and the Subway Jalapeno 250 Powered By Coca-Cola NASCAR Nationwide Series race on Friday, July 1. Tickets for the Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola start at $44.(DIS)(5-13-2011)
NASCAR Green Clean Air Tree Planting Project plants 100 tree's: NASCAR, Daytona International Speedway and International Speedway Corporation joined forces with the Daytona Beach International Airport as the beneficiary of NASCAR’s Green Clean Air tree planting project. NASCAR Green Clean Air is a unique program that plants 10 trees for each Green Flag that drops during races, capturing 100% of the carbon produced by the on track racing at the events. The initiative, the largest tree planting program in sports, debuted at 11 tracks in the 2009 Sprint Cup season, and in 2010, expanded to plant more than 1,000 trees to balance the carbon produced by racing. In 2011, the initiative expanded to the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series, and now encompasses over 20 tracks nationwide. As a result of the 53rd annual Daytona 500 in February, 110 trees are being planted in three locations throughout the property at Daytona Beach International Airport. On Wednesday, approximately 80 NASCAR, International Speedway Corporation, Daytona International Speedway and Americrown employees planted the trees, which were purchased locally from Nature Scapes in Flagler County. International Speedway Corporation Chief Executive Officer Lesa France Kennedy, Daytona International Speedway President Joie Chitwood III, Dr. Mike Lynch, Managing Director of Green Innovation for NASCAR and Volusia County Chair Frank Bruno participated in a tree planting ceremony.(DIS)(4-25-2011)
NASCAR may let fans stay forever UPDATE voted down: NASCAR fans who consider Daytona International Speedway their home away from home could soon make it their final resting place, too -- albeit less quiet and peaceful than a traditional cemetery. Legislation making its way through the Florida House and Senate would allow construction of an on-site columbarium -- a building or structure that houses urns -- at both Daytona International Speedway and Homestead Miami Speedway. International Speedway Corp. spokesman Lenny Santiago said many NASCAR fans have inquired over the years about having their ashes laid to rest at Daytona International Speedway. "We have a lot of fans that are very, very loyal to NASCAR races and to Daytona in general," Santiago said. "This opens that door, this bill, and we're hopeful that this will get passed." If it passes, the bill would become law July 1. It has been approved by two House committees and has its first Senate committee hearing today. Daytona International Speedway doesn't have a proposed location for the structure yet or any timeline for building it until the bill passes, Santiago said, although it would be somewhere public that fans would be able to see. He also said he didn't know what kind of fees the Speedway might charge to fans looking to place their ashes there.(Daytona Beach News Journal)(3-29-2011)
UPDATE: Racing fans who might have dreamed of making the Daytona International Speedway their eternal home had their hopes dashed Tuesday as a Florida Senate committee voted down a bill that would have made those dreams possible. The Senate Committee on Regulated Industries rejected the bill by a 5-7 vote, which would have allowed columbariums to be built at both Daytona International Speedway and Homestead Miami Speedway. Columbariums are buildings that house urns. The state House companion bill had already passed two committees and was scheduled for its third and final committee hearing Thursday. "I just felt very strongly that to have people's remains, cremated remains, at the same place where there's NASCAR racing and a motorsports entertainment complex was not appropriate," said state Sen. Maria Lorts Sachs, D-Delray Beach, the committee's vice chairwoman. "A lot of that has to do with the fact that I love NASCAR, and I love Daytona, and I didn't want it to turn into a partial cemetery."(Daytona Beach News Journal)(3-30-2011)
Daytona International Speedway joins Drive to End Hunger: On behalf of Drive to End Hunger, AARP and AARP Foundation’s nationwide initiative to end hunger among older Americans, four-time Sprint Cup Series Champion Jeff Gordon and Daytona International Speedway President Joie Chitwood III recently announced that Daytona International Speedway will donate extra food items from the 53rd annual Daytona 500 to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. The donation is expected to include breads, produce and other food items and will be delivered on Monday with help from Americrown, the catering and concessions subsidiary of parent company International Speedway Corporation. The announcement comes as Drive to End Hunger celebrates its first race as primary sponsor Gordon’s #24 Chevy. Drive to End Hunger is a national effort that also includes volunteer-led food drives across the country; individual and corporate giving campaigns; local outreach to enroll seniors in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP); an innovative local grants program and research into the causes and consequences of hunger. Working nationally with Feeding America, during Speedweeks, Drive to End Hunger is leading a food drive effort at 65 Winn-Dixie stores across central Florida. As part of the effort, AARP Foundation announced a $10,000 contribution directly to Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. For more information or to get involved, visit www.drivetoendhunger.org.(DIS)(2-22-2011)
Record-Setting Day At The Daytona 500: The 53rd running of the Daytona 500, the first on the brand-new racing surface at Daytona International Speedway, featured a track-record 74 lead changes and 22 leaders. The lead-change record was especially noteworthy, considering the previous mark lasted more than three decades. The prior lead change mark was 60, set in the 1974 Daytona 500.
For the second consecutive year, the record for different leaders fell. In last year’s 500, 21 different drivers led. Additionally, there were 16 cautions, a track record. The 60 caution laps tied a record at Daytona. Sunday’s Daytona 500 continued a record-breaking Speedweeks trend. Last Saturday night, the Budweiser Shootout featured a record-breaking 28 lead changes.
Records also were broken in each of Thursday’s two Gatorade Duel races. The first Duel race had a record 20 lead changes. That mark was immediately broken in the second Duel event, which had 22 lead changes.
Trevor Bayne, who became the youngest Daytona 500 winner (20 years, one day), led the final six laps. He gave the Wood Brothers organization its fifth Daytona 500 win. The Woods’ last victory came in 1976 with NASCAR Hall of Fame Inductee David Pearson beating Richard Petty in a legendary last-lap battle. Bayne became the seventh driver to earn his first NASCAR Sprint Cup Series victory in the Daytona 500.(NASCAR)(2-20-2011)
Speedweeks race finishes at Daytona: in the five NASCAR races held at Daytona International Speedway during Speedweeks, all five races have close margin of victory:
Bud Shootout: Kurt Busch .058 seconds
Gatorade Duel 1: Kurt Busch .065 seconds
Gatorade Duel 2: Jeff Burton .005 seconds
Trucks: Michael Waltrip .061 seconds
Nationwide: Tony Stewart .007 seconds
Sprint Cup: Trevor Bayne .118 seconds
(SPEED RaceDay graphic)(2-20-2011)
Race Fast Facts - Daytona International Speedway:
Trevor Bayne won the 53rd Annual Daytona 500, his first victory in only his second NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. Bayne is the youngest Daytona 500 winner in history (20 years, one day).
This is team owner Wood Brothers' fifth Daytona 500 victory, the last coming in 1976 with David Pearson. It is their 98th series win overall.
Bayne is the seventh driver to earn his first points win in the Daytona 500 (Tiny Lund, 1963; Mario Andretti, 1967; Pete Hamilton, 1970; Derrike Cope, 1990; Sterling Marlin, 1994; Michael Waltrip, 2001).
There were track records in lead changes (74), leaders (22) and cautions (16).
The victory is Ford's 600th win.
Carl Edwards (second) posted his sixth top-10 finish in 13 races at Daytona International Speedway. It is his first top-10 finish in 2011.
David Gilliland (third) posted his second top-10 finish in six races at Daytona International Speedway.
Because Bayne has chosen to earn championship points in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, Carl Edwards now leads the points standings by one point over David Gilliland.(NASCAR Statistics)(2-20-2011)
Daytona 500 Official Program Is Now Available for Mobile Devices: The Official Program for the 2011 Daytona 500 is now available for download to mobile devices. The same 192-page book available to fans trackside can be viewed via the Zinio electronic newsstand service. This is the first time in the history of the event that the race day program will be available for download at zinio.com.(2-20-2011)
Daytona Notes-n-Nuggets:
* Trevor Bayne became the youngest winner of the Daytona 500.
* Trevor Bayne is the second-youngest driver (20 years, 1 day) to win a Sprint Cup race -- Joey Logano was 19 years, 1 month, 4 days when he won at New Hampshire in June 2009.
* Trevor Bayne is the second driver to win the Daytona 500 in his first start; Lee Petty won the inaugural event in 1959.
* Trevor Bayne is the seventh driver to get his first Sprint Cup vcitory in the Daytona 500 -- Tiny Lund (1963), Mario Andretti (1967), Pete Hamilton (1970), Derrike Cope (1990), Sterling Marlin (1994) and Michael Waltrip (2001).
* The past six 500s have been won by first-time 500 victors; Jeff Gordon in 2005 is the most recent repeat winner.
* This was the 98th Cup victory for the Wood Brothers; the team's last win came at Bristol in March 2001 with Elliott Sadler.
* The race set records for leaders (22), lead changes (74), cautions (16) and tied the record for caution laps (60).
* Carl Edwards (second) earned his best Daytona 500 finish in his seventh start.
* David Gilliland (third) picked up his third Cup Series top-five finish in his 151st start.
* Bobby Labonte (fourth) earned his best finish since comign home third at Martinsville in Oct. 2006.
* Regan Smith (seventh) had his career-best finish in his 96th start.
* Paul Menard (ninth) earned his ninth top-10 finish in his 148th start.
* Bill Elliott (12th) had his best finish since also finishing 12th in the 2008 race at Homestead-Miami Speedway.
* Jimmie Johnson (27th) has finished 27th or worse in the six Daytona 500s since he won in 2006.
* This was the fifth 500 to end under a green-white-checkered finish and the second consecutive 500 in which the race went 208 laps.(Sporting News Wire Service /nascar.com)(2-20-2011)
Daytona 500 pushed back a week in 2012: The 2012 Daytona 500 will be held a week later than normal, eliminating the early off date and shortening the Sprint Cup season. The "Great American Race'' will be held next year on February 26. "We have a very short offseason,'' said Steve O'Donnell, a senior vice president with NASCAR. "This gives us a little more time shortening up the season.'' Beyond moving the date to shorten the season, O'Donnell said NASCAR wanted to get ahead of any potential moves to an 18-game schedule by the NFL that could push the Super Bowl later than normal. There are no plans to condense the length of Speedweeks, although the date of the Budweiser Shootout has not been officially set at the weekend before the 500 (would be Feb 18th].(ESPN.com)
AND Daytona International Speedway President Joie Chitwood III announced today that the 54th Annual Daytona 500 will be held on Sunday, February 26, 2012. “The decision to kick-off to the NASCAR racing season one week later was made in close partnership with the sanctioning body, our broadcast partners including FOX, community partners and others within the industry,” said Chitwood. “This move shortens the racing season by one week, which is something the teams and competitors will surely enjoy, and it eliminates the off-weekend typically scheduled in March, which many fans and media partners have said created a drop in momentum in the early part of the racing season. We also know some of our great fans like to plan their visit to the ‘World Center of Racing’ well in advance so we are announcing the 2012 date much earlier in the season to minimize any inconveniences in planning their visit.” The dates of Daytona International Speedway’s other racing events that comprise Speedweeks, in addition to the motorcycle events in March, will be determined in the near future.(DIS)(2-20-2011)
Daytona 500 heads to San Francisco on Tuesday: Race fans are invited to an old-fashioned Ice Cream Social at legendary Ghirardelli Square in San Francisco on Tuesday, Feb. 22, with the winner of the 2011 Daytona 500. For the third consecutive year, the winner of the Great American Race will come to San Francisco to meet with race fans and members of the media, courtesy of Infineon Raceway and the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. The appearance marks the Official Countdown to the Toyota/Save Mart 350 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekend at Infineon Raceway, June 24-26. The Ghirardelli Square Ice Cream Parlor will create a very special ice cream sundae in honor of the 2011 Daytona 500 winner. It will be called the “Sundae, Sundae, Sundae.” Race fans are invited to the event, which begins at 6:00 pm at Ghirardelli Square. The race-winner, who will arrive via a CHP escort, will first walk the red carpet to the Ghirardelli Square Ice Cream Parlor, where he will create the very first “Sundae, Sundae, Sundae,” complete with all the fixins. The item will have a permanent spot on the Ghirardelli Square Ice Cream Parlor menu for fans to enjoy. The driver will then be escorted to the Ghirardelli Square Courtyard for a formal press conference. Race fans are encouraged to attend and give the winner of the Great American Race a warm Northern California welcome. Fans in attendance will receive a complimentary “Sundae, Sundae, Sundae,” courtesy of Ghirardelli Square, while supplies last. The event will also feature ticket giveaways, event posters and a visit from the popular Infineon Raceway Girls. Be sure and get there early as seats to the press conference will be limited. Race tickets to the Toyota/Save Mart 350 will be available at the Ice Cream Social, including special packages like the Save Mart Supermarkets 2-Pack (2 tickets for $99) and the Jimmie Johnson 4-Pack (4 tickets, 4 hot dog, 4 sodas, plus a race-day Q&A with Johnson for $195), among others. Stay tuned to www.infineonraceway.com for additional details on the Ice Cream Social with the 2011 Daytona 500 winner.(Infineon Raceway)(2-20-2011)
NASCAR Allows Sprint Cup Series Teams To Open Air Inlets: NASCAR is letting NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams open up their air inlet openings some for Daytona 500 - going from a 2 1/2 x 20-inch opening to a 3 x 20-inch opening. With continued warm weather forecast for Sunday, this move gives teams more air to cool their engines.(NASCAR)(2-20-2011)
Fan to miss first Daytona 500 UPDATE will make it: Jack Hege, believed to be the only person to have attended every Daytona 500, will see his streak end this year because of a broken left arm suffered in April that has not healed properly and required surgery in December. Hege, who lives in Lexington, N.C., first went down to Daytona in 1958, witnessing the final race on the beach course. He enjoyed the experience so much that he returned the following year when the race moved to Daytona International Speedway and the first Daytona 500 was held. Hege, who turns 84 on Feb. 9, just kept going back to Daytona after that, telling me three years ago that "I've never known any other home except Daytona.'' He even delayed knee surgery to attend last year's Daytona 500 to keep his streak alive. Hege still has his ticket to the 1959 Daytona 500 he attended. Two years ago, NASCAR honored Hege by seating him among the celebrities for the drivers meeting before the race and introducing him to the competitors in honor of his Daytona 500 streak. Hege was injured when he fell backward and tried to catch himself in April. He continued to suffer complications from the injury and had surgery in December. His arm is in a sling and still has screws in the bone.(full story at the Virginian Pilot)(2-1-2011)
UPDATE: Jack Hege, who is believed to be the only person to have attended every Daytona 500 as a spectator, will see his streak continue with the help of a NASCAR Sprint Cup team. Richard Childress Racing will fly Hege to Daytona on Sunday morning so the 84-year-old Lexington, N.C., man can watch the race. Hege first attended a race at Daytona in 1958 -- the final race on the beach course -- and came back the next year for the first race at Daytona International Speedway and has never missed a 500 here since. "It's unbelievable,'' Hege said. "It's unbelievable. I didn't dream I'd ever get to go (this year).'' Hege had said last month because of health concerns that he would not be able to attend this year's 500. Roush Fenway Racing and Joel Edmonds, spotter for Greg Biffle, had inquired earlier about trying to get him to the 500 to keep his streak alive. Hege declined the offers as he recovered from surgery in December for a broken arm. Hege's doctor cleared him on Wednesday to fly to Daytona. Hege told an RCR official, who also invited him, that he would be able to go. When Hege talked to David Hart of Richard Childress Racing about the trip, he admits: "I hated to hang up. I wanted to keep talking and talking and thanking people for what they've done for me. (Hart) said that Richard wanted to do something for me, saying that anybody that had went through what I went through for 53 years, deserves some help. I appreciate it.'' Now, Hege is thinking about how he wants to go to the 2012 Daytona 500. "It's something to look forward to,'' Hege said. "It helps a person keep going. It means a lot to me.''(Virginian Pilot)(2-19-2011)
No more changes planned for Daytona 500: Barring a major shift from what was seen in Thursday's two qualifying races, NASCAR doesn't plan any additional changes to the Sprint Cup cars before the Daytona 500, series director John Darby said Friday. "You never want to say no, we're not going to do any changes. If somebody is holding onto something and we get a group in practice on Saturday and it gets really nuts, we'll look at it," Darby said. "Typically, we won't drop ourselves into a box until we drop the green flag on Sunday. But no changes are planned." Since Saturday's Budweiser Shootout at Daytona, where cars reached speeds of 206 mph, NASCAR has gone to a smaller restrictor plate hole, reduced the opening in the front grill and mandated a lower radiator pressure to slow the cars.(ESPN.com)(2-18-2011)
Transformers stars named Grand Marshals of the Daytona 500: The stars of “Transformers: Dark of the Moon”– Josh Duhamel, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and director Michael Bay – will serve as the Grand Marshals for 53rd running of the Daytona 500 on Sunday, Feb. 20, 2011. As Grand Marshals, the Transformers cast will deliver the four most famous words in motorsports – “Gentlemen, start your engines.” In addition, the modified NASCAR stock cars featured in the movie will make their first public appearance by leading the 43-car field during the pace laps of “The Great American Race,” the kick-off event to the 2011 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series season.
The Daytona 500 will not be Bay or Transformers’ first introduction to the NASCAR world. In 2009, Bay piloted the official pace car at a NASCAR Sprint Cup race to promote the DVD release of “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.” NASCAR drivers Jeff Gordon and Ryan Newman also took part, racing with branded images of opposing Autobots and Decepticons on their cars and uniforms. Bay credits his vision to include NASCAR stock cars in the new Transformers film to this experience.
In the days leading up to the Daytona 500, race fans can view the Transformers NASCAR stock cars at the Chevy Display located in the Midway outside Turn 4. Tickets for Speedweeks 2011 events, including the 53rd annual Daytona 500, are available online at daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.(DIS)(2-18-2011)
Martina McBride to sing National Anthem for Daytona 500: Fresh off her rousing opening performance at the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards, Country music star Martina McBride will sing the National Anthem for the 53rd running of the Daytona 500 on Sunday, February 20, NASCAR biggest and most prestigious race of the season. McBride is a four-time Country Music Association Female Vocalist of the Year, three-time American Country Music Female Vocalist of the Year and a Grammy winning recording artist with more than 18 million in album sales and 24 top-10 singles, including six that reached No. 1. Tickets for all of 2011 Speedweeks events, including the 53rd annual Daytona 500, are available online at www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.(DIS)(2-16-2011)
Chevrolet Camaro SS to serve as Official Pace Car for Daytona 500: The Chevrolet Camaro SS will serve as the official pace car for the 53rd running of the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway – the second time in the past three years that the iconic automobile has paced the field for the “The Great American Race.” In addition, behind the wheel of the Chevrolet Camaro as the Honorary Pace Car driver will be Country Music Association Entertainer of the Year Brad Paisley, who is also performing the Daytona 500 Pre-Race show. The Chevrolet Camaro has previously paced the field for the Daytona 500 – NASCAR’s signature event – three times beginning back in 1968 and 1969 and most recently in 2009. The 2011 Daytona 500 Camaro SS pace cars are adorned in a vibrant “Red Hot” color accented with “Platinum Ice” stripes. GM Accessory 21” wheels and tires are installed along with body colored ground effects, heritage grill, and tall rear spoiler. The cars also have fully integrated safety strobe systems with custom light bars and amber taillights.
Tickets for Speedweeks 2011 events and the 53rd annual Daytona 500 are available online at daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.(DIS), see an image of the car on my 2011 Pace Car Page.(2-15-2011)
Daytona unveils new Infield Tailgate Zones for Daytona 500: Daytona International Speedway announced new opportunities for fans to enjoy one of sports’ greatest traditions – tailgating – in the infield of the “World Center of Racing” for the 53rd running of the Daytona 500 on Sunday, Feb. 20. For $50, Daytona 500 grandstand ticket holders can purchase an infield parking space for their car/light truck in one of two Infield Tailgate Zones located inside the legendary infield of Daytona International Speedway. The Infield Tailgate Zone package provides six tailgate zone admissions and a parking spot for tailgating before and after the Daytona 500. In between tailgating, race fans can enjoy the first “Great American Race” on the newly paved racing surface from their frontstretch grandstand seat. To purchase an Infield Tailgate Zone package, call 1-800-PITSHOP or visit daytonainternationalspeedway.com.(DIS)(2-12-2011)
Actress Amber Heard Grand Marshal for Budweiser Shootout: actress Amber Heard will serve as the Grand Marshal for the 33rd annual Budweiser Shootout on Saturday night, Feb. 12 – the star-studded non-points NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event that kicks off the stock car portion of Speedweeks 2011 at Daytona International Speedway. Heard will give the starting command “Gentlemen start your engines”. The Budweiser Shootout will feature former NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champions, the 2010 Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup field, a host of former outstanding rookies and a collection of previous winners at Daytona International Speedway. Heard will next be seen in the action thriller “Drive Angry 3D” starring opposite Nicolas Cage, which is set for release on Feb. 25. She will also be seen in “The Rum Diary” starring opposite Johnny Depp and Aaron Eckhart later this year. Tickets for all of 2011 Speedweeks events including Budweiser Shootout are available online at daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.(DIS)(2-10-2011)
Laura Bell Bundy to perform National Anthem / Concerts for Bud Shootout: Country music singer/songwriter Laura Bell Bundy will perform at the 33rd annual Budweiser Shootout on Saturday, Feb. 12 at Daytona International Speedway. Bundy will perform a pre- and post-race concert in addition to the National Anthem for the non-points star-studded NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event. Bundy will perform three songs prior to the Budweiser Shootout on the Pre-Race Stage as well as the National Anthem, which will be carried live on FOX. After the checkered flag waves on the 75-lap race, Bundy will perform a 60-minute post-race concert from the Sprint FANZONE Entertainment Stage. Sprint FANZONE/Pre-Race access holders will be able to view the pre-race concert from the tri-oval grass while all ticket holders will have access to the post-race concert, which will start in the Sprint FANZONE approximately 30-minutes after the end of the race. Tickets for all Speedweeks 2011 events, including the Budweiser Shootout, are available online at daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.(DIS)(2-10-2011)
Brad Paisley to perform the Daytona 500 Pre-Race Show: Reigning Country Music Association Entertainer of the Year Brad Paisley will perform the Daytona 500 Pre-Race Show, the pre-race extravaganza leading up to the start of “The Great American Race” at Daytona International Speedway on Sunday, Feb. 20. Paisley, who has 18 No. 1 hits, three Grammy awards, 14 CMA Awards, 13 Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards, will perform three songs prior to the start of the 53rd annual Daytona 500 – the season-opening event to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and the biggest stock car race in the world. All race fans that purchase a Pre-Race/Sprint FANZONE access pass for the Daytona 500 will be able to view Paisley’s Daytona 500 Pre-Race Show as well as the driver introductions from the grass tri-oval area. For more information on tickets for the 53rd annual Daytona 500 and Sprint FANZONE /Pre-Race access, race fans can go online at daytonainternationalspeedway.com or call 1-800-PITSHOP.(DIS)(2-10-2011)
Champion’s Breakfast tickets now on sale at Daytona:The Champion’s Breakfast has always been one of the great traditions surrounding Daytona 500, NASCAR’s biggest, richest and most prestigious race. On the Monday morning, Feb. 21, race fans will once again have the opportunity to celebrate with the winning driver, team and crew chief from the 53rd annual Daytona 500 at the Champion’s Breakfast, which will be held in the velocitorium near the Daytona International Speedway ticket offices.
Available for $40, the Champion’s Breakfast car induction festivities include:
· Fan forum with the winning driver, owner and crew chief from the 53rd annual Daytona 500
· Breakfast
· Entertainment including watching the NASCAR Victory Lane show on SPEED, Minute to Spin It games and signed giveaway items.
· Souvenir gift
The first 100 Champion’s Breakfast tickets purchased will also include a free All-Access Track Tour ticket. To purchase tickets for the Champion’s Breakfast or any of the Speedweeks 2011 events, call 1-800-PITSHOP or visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com.(DIS)(2-6-2011)
Waltrip marks 25th Daytona 500 start with special ticket offer: For #15-Michael Waltrip, there’s no better way to spend the morning of the Daytona 500 – NASCAR’s biggest and most prestigious race of the year – than interacting with his fans and enjoying cupcakes and Coca-Cola products. As the two-time Daytona 500 champion approaches his 25th start in the 53rd running of the Daytona 500 on Sunday, Feb. 20, the popular NASCAR driver and owner of Michael Waltrip Racing will partner with Daytona International Speedway for the second straight year on a special ticket package – the Michael Waltrip Daytona 500 Celebration Offer.
Included in the ticket package, available for $129, is:
· A Superstretch Daytona 500 ticket
· Fan forum with Waltrip the morning of the Daytona 500
· Celebration with Waltrip featuring cupcakes and Coca-Cola products
· Gift bag that includes items from Michael Waltrip Racing partners
· Commemorative item signed by Waltrip for each ticket holder
The Michael Waltrip Daytona 500 Celebration Offer is available online at www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com/mwr or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.(DIS)(2-4-2011)
Daytona Unveils New Mobile Website, Fan Texting Service Returns for Speedweeks 2011: As part of its ongoing effort to enhance fan communication and safety while providing timely information, Daytona International Speedway announced the debut of its mobile website. With the new mobile web site, fans can now access vital ticket and race weekend information directly from their smart phones. In addition, speedway officials announced the return of the Fan Texting Service, allowing fans to communicate directly with officials on property to report a safety issue, ask a seating question or request general assistance. The fan texting code will be highly visible via signage throughout the entire Daytona International Speedway property, including parking areas, merchandise and vendor midway areas, the infield, and grandstand seats.(DIS)(1-31-2011)
NASCAR wants lane stripes at Daytona: NASCAR will ask Daytona International Speedway to add broken, white lane stripes between Turns 1 and 2 and Turns 3 and 4 before returning in February. Sprint Cup director John Darby said before NASCAR returns for Speed Weeks, the track will add lane markers in all the 31-degree banked areas. "We've had some conversations with a few drivers and they've told us that would be helpful to them when they are three wide in a draft," Darby said Saturday. "The hash marks will give them some sort of a guide to understand how much room they have above and below them. In talking with the Speedway (Saturday) morning, they said they will probably paint those right before the stock cars start running in February." Darby said the double-yellow lines, which separate the racing surface from the out-of-bounds area for NASCAR races at Daytona, will not be moved from the apron to the track surface.(Daytona Beach News Journal)(1-23-2011)
Desite high speeds, no change in restrictor plate anticipated: Drivers cracked 198 mph in two-car drafts Saturday in the final day of a three-day test session at Daytona International Speedway, but NASCAR doesn’t plan to change the size of the restrictor plate when Sprint Cup Series teams return in February for Speedweeks. NASCAR officials seemed content with the speeds, similar to those posted a month ago during a Goodyear tire test on the newly paved 2.5-mile trioval. Teams used a restrictor plate with holes 29/32nds of an inch in diameter – 1/32nd of an inch smaller than what was used in the December test. NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Director John Darby said he expects speeds in February to be higher than during the test.(SceneDaily)(1-22-2011)
Goodyear tires at Daytona: The Goodyear tires are a combination of what NASCAR will use at Las Vegas and Talladega. They don't wear as fast, as usually is the case on new surfaces, meaning we'll see a lot more no-tire and two-tire stops in the Daytona 500 than normal. (ESPN.com)(1-21-2011)
NASCAR goes to smaller plate at Daytona: NASCAR reportedly will down-size restrictor plate holes for next week’s Sprint Cup Goodyear tire test at Daytona International Speedway. The new size will be 29/32 of an inch. The old size was 30/32 of an inch. The result will be less power and, presumably, slower speeds. The track surface at Daytona was repaved since last year’s summer race. In earlier tests [January], the new surface, which is smoother and stickier, produced higher speeds [197mph].(RaceToday)(1-13-2011)
Next up - Daytona testing Jan. 20-22 & NASCAR Preseason Thunder Fan Fest: Daytona 500 champions Jamie McMurray, Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson and Dale Earnhardt Jr. are among the drivers that will appear at NASCAR Preseason Thunder Fan Fest at historic Daytona International Speedway on Thursday, Jan. 20 and Friday, Jan. 21. The NASCAR Sprint Cup Series will take to the new asphalt at Daytona International Speedway in a three-day test session, known as NASCAR Preseason Thunder, Thursday, Jan. 20 through Saturday, Jan. 22.
Tickets for NASCAR Preseason Thunder Fan Fest are $20 and available by calling 1-800-PITSHOP or online at daytonainternationalspeedway.com. 2011 Daytona 500 ticketholders and children 12 and under will receive free admission. Advanced reservations are available (limited to 250 people) for special autograph sessions to be held with participating 2010 Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup drivers and Daytona 500 champions. Additional driver autograph sessions will be held on both days with wristbands available the day of the event.
To request access to the special autograph sessions, race fans can call 1-800-PITSHOP or visit the Daytona International Speedway ticket office beginning on Saturday, Jan. 8 at 9 a.m.
In addition to viewing the on-track activity from the Sprint FANZONE, fans can watch each day’s testing at no cost from a section of the Oldfield Grandstands near Turn 4.
Drivers currently scheduled to make appearances on Thursday, Jan. 20 beginning at 6 p.m. are Dale Earnhardt Jr., Brad Keselowski, David Ragan, Kurt Busch, Carl Edwards, Denny Hamlin, Kasey Kahne, Mark Martin, Martin Truex Jr. and Regan Smith.
Scheduled to appear on Friday, Jan. 21, during the 5-7 p.m. session are Kevin Harvick, Clint Bowyer, David Reutimann, Casey Mears, Jeff Burton, Jimmie Johnson, Joey Logano, Kevin Conway, Kyle Busch, Paul Menard and Ryan Newman. In the 7-9 p.m. session, drivers scheduled to appear are AJ Allmendinger, Brian Vickers, Greg Biffle, Jamie McMurray, Jeff Gordon, Juan Pablo Montoya, Marcos Ambrose and Matt Kenseth.
Lastly, race fans will be able to camp in the infield of Daytona International Speedway for free with their admission ticket during the three-day test inside Turns 3 and 4. Sites will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Gates to the infield will open Thursday, Jan. 20 at 8:00 a.m.
Among the activities planned for both days include:
• Interactive driver question and answer sessions on the main stage
• Show cars, displays, music
• Photo opportunity with the Harley J. Earl Daytona 500 trophy
• Blood drive outside the Turn 4 tunnel
Tickets for both the NASCAR Preseason Thunder Fan Fests and the Roar Before The Rolex 24 are available online at daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.(DIS)(1-4-2010)
Cup Series Teams Complete Goodyear Tire Test At Daytona: As sunshine warmed Daytona International Speedway’s new racing surface on Thursday, so did the expectations and excitement levels for the 53rd Daytona 500 on Feb. 20. Thursday marked the second day of a two-day Goodyear tire test in preparation both for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series’ traditional season-opening event and the track’s new asphalt. The repaving project – only the second in track history and first since 1978 – began immediately after the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event on July 3 and ended last week. With this week’s test open to all series teams, a number took advantage, filling the frontstretch side of the NASCAR Sprint Cup garage with their haulers.
“I think it has gone really well,” said Jeff Burton (#31 Caterpillar Chevy). “Everybody is happy with the surface. The tire combination seems to be really good.”
“It's just a new attitude,” said Kurt Busch (#22 Shell/Pennzoil Dodge). “This is what 2011 will bring to start off our Sprint Cup season. Big, exciting time. I'm proud to be able to say I got a chance to race on the surface when it was redone.”
Busch and Burton, along with reigning Daytona 500 champion Jamie McMurray (#1 Bass Pro Shops Chevy) and Bobby Labonte (#47 JTG Daugherty Racing Toyota) all visited the infield media center during Thursday’s lunch break. NASCAR Vice President of Competition Robin Pemberton, Daytona International Speedway President Joie Chitwood III and Goodyear Director of Racing Greg Stucker also participated in the midday press conference.
“Good communication all along between the folks here at Daytona, Joie, Goodyear, the race teams, the series directors, everybody that had input,” Pemberton said. “It's nice to know you can show up at one of these things, have so many different things that we faced and challenges over the last year to get ready for this. Looks like the plan came together nicely.”
Burton was heartened that Daytona’s repave – while cutting-edge – respected the venue. He cited the 2007 repave at another historic NASCAR venue, Darlington Raceway, as a positive example.
“It's much smoother, has a tremendous amount more grip, but it's still Daytona,” Burton said. “They didn't try to change the banking from the bottom to the top, do all that stuff. They just kept Daytona and put pavement on it. I'm glad that's what they did.”
Although the focus remains on the racing surface, McMurray noted details like a wider pit road. “They did a really good job, not only on the racetrack, but widening pit road,” he said. “It's really nice to get that little bit of extra room on pit road. Pit road speeds are really fast when you come to [restrictor] plate tracks. Typically we have the smallest brakes on the car that we run all year long, so pit road is also trouble. So the fact they widened that 10 or 12 feet is really nice.”
Media and fan interest also is accelerated. A portion of Daytona’s grandstands was open for public viewing both Wednesday and Thursday and television cameras weren’t the only ones being wielded. “It's real important,” Labonte said of public and media fanfare. “They have a section open for the fans. They can come down here and see us drafting. I'm sure they've got their cameras out showing video to their buddies now on who-knows-where it's all at. It's the first time we've been to the new facility. That's exciting.”
It’s worth noting that this week’s test was confirmation, not a search process. Stucker said a tight calendar meant Goodyear officials did the bulk of their compound research testing at Daytona’s sister track, Talladega Superspeedway, also the only other restrictor-plate track on NASCAR’s three national series’ calendars. Drivers, teams and track and NASCAR officials all draw natural comparisons off Talladega, which was repaved prior to its fall 2006 event. The completion of a test asphalt strip at Daytona allowed Goodyear officials to gather additional data, which Stucker said was compared to August’s test results at Talladega. “We're well into production for the 500,” Stucker said. “In fact, we're just about done. We've come down here and really confirmed that all those decisions we made were the right ones. Very glad to hear that all the guys are comfortable with our setup and really everything we've seen so far has been very good from our perspective, very consistent, a lot of good comments from the drivers.”(NASCAR)
AND 197.5 mph Eighteen drivers from six teams, including Jeff Gordon, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Mark Martin, Matt Kenseth, Kurt Busch and Juan Pablo Montoya, took part in the test. Some teams brought cars and engines from last season. Others tested their latest and greatest technology, including ethanol-blended fuel. All the teams used a slightly smaller restrictor plate than the one bolted on engines at Daytona last season. The top speed was 197.5 mph, and NASCAR vice president of competition Robin Pemberton said officials will evaluate testing results before deciding whether to reduce the plate even further. "We may need to come down a little bit off of that, which would be like a 64th of an inch or something," Pemberton said. "We'll have to go back and talk to the teams and we'll look at the speeds from the last two days of testing."(Associated Press)(12-16-2010)
Some Day 1 testing news/photos from Daytona: Statement From NASCAR Vice President of Competition Robin Pemberton About Goodyear Tire Test At Daytona International Speedway: "It was a very good day. The teams came well-prepared. Goodyear came well-prepared. The racetrack has a lot of grip. The surface is very smooth. It appears in drafting practice that they immediately went three-wide."(NASCAR)
AND Mark Martin awarded high marks to all parties after Day One of a Goodyear tire test at Daytona International Speedway today. Speaking to Sirius NASCAR Radio's Sirius Speedway with Dave Moody, Martin said, "I think we ran six laps without even wearing the sticker off the left front tire. In fact, we could probably run the full 500 miles on the same set of tires. There will be zero tire issues during Speedweeks. The track is smooth, its fast and it's not wearing the tires at all. The grip is obscene, and I'm sure the guys from Goodyear are probably having a party tonight." Martin also offered his prediction for the upcoming Daytona 500, saying, "The race is going to be crazy. Everybody better start getting ready right now." Sources say speeds were in the neighborhood of 195 mph, with three-wide (and some four-wide) racing common. "we ran three-wide quite a bit," said Martin, "and toward the end, we got a little braver and tried four-wide. That's not going to work for very long before someone gets into the side of the guy next to him and causes a wreck." Only one major incident slowed the day's test, when David Ragan crashed his Roush-Fenway Racing UPS Ford. (Sirius Speedway)
IMAGES: see some images from Day 1 of testing by Motorsports Images and Archives on my December 2010 Daytona Testing page(12-15-2010)
U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds to perform fly-over for Daytona 500: The world-renowned U.S. Air Force “Thunderbirds” will provide race fans with the flyover during the National Anthem for the 53rd running of the Daytona 500 – the prestigious season-opening event for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series on Sunday, Feb. 20 at Daytona International Speedway.
It’s the second time the flying squadron will perform the flyover at the historic “World Center of Racing.” The Thunderbirds previously provided the flyover for the 50th running of the Daytona 500 in 2008. The Thunderbird flyover will feature six Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcons buzzing the famed Speedway before landing at nearby Daytona Beach International Airport.
The Thunderbirds, comprising twelve officers and more than 130 enlisted members, perform precision aerial maneuvers in approximately 70 shows a year at 35 different locations from the middle of March to the middle of November. Since the unit's inception in 1953, more than 350 million people in 61 countries and all 50 states have witnessed the red, white and blue jets in more than 4,123 official aerial demonstrations.
Tickets for the 53rd running of the Daytona 500 and other Speedweeks 2011 events are available online to daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP (DIS)(12-15-2010)
Daytona repaving finished: On Friday, the checkered flag waved for the paving crew of Lane Construction as they finished the final paving of Daytona International Speedway.The paving crew wrapped up the final pass on the apron in Turns 1 and 2 in the late afternoon, following some inclement weather in the morning. While all the paving is complete on the racing surface, skid pad, pit road and the apron, there’s still a punch-list of items being worked on during the 23rd week of repaving of Daytona International Speedway:
• Installation of the lights is complete but finishing touches such as connectivity and adjustments of the lights still need to be made
• The striping of the track has begun and is ongoing.
• The process of hanging the eight caution lights around the track is ongoing
• Installation of the scoring loops is ongoing
• Finishes touches are being put on the catch fence in Turns 1, 2, 3 and 4
• At least 18 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers are expected to participate in a Goodyear tire test on Wednesday, Dec. 15 and Thursday, Dec. 16.(DIS PR)(12-11-2010)
Special Daytona 500 Ticket Offer to honor National Fallen Firefighters Foundation: Daytona International Speedway has joined forces with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) in putting together a special ticket package that will deliver the excitement of NASCAR’s most prestigious race – the Daytona 500 – as well as benefit an important cause. The NFFF ticket package, which starts at $119 for adults and $79 for children 12 and under, includes a race ticket to the 53rd annual Daytona 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, Feb. 20, admission to the Star and Shield FIRE STATION 500 hospitality tent, and commemorative T-shirt. A portion of the proceeds from each NFFF ticket package purchase will be donated to the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation, a tax-exempt, non-profit organization created by the United States Congress to lead a nationwide effort to remember America’s fallen firefighters. Since 1992, NFFF has developed and expanded programs to honor fallen fire heroes and assist their families and co-workers. To purchase this special package, race fans should call 1-877-306-RACE or visit daytonainternationalspeedway.com/nfff.(DIS)(12-5-2010)
Daytona International Speedway honored Track of the Year Award: Daytona International Speedway received the 2010 NASCAR Foundation Track of the Year Award at the NASCAR National Motorsports Press Association (NMPA) Myers Brothers Awards Luncheon on Thursday held at the Bellagio Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. Daytona International Speedway President Joie Chitwood III accepted the award from Steve Gaffney, Director of Sports Marketing for Sprint. Beginning this year, the NASCAR Foundation implemented a year-long fundraising and awareness contest among NASCAR Sprint Cup and Nationwide tracks. Tracks were awarded points for funds raised and marketing activities that they engage in with the NASCAR Foundation with the top track being awarded the NASCAR Foundation Track of the Year Award. One of the highlights of Daytona International Speedway’s work with the NASCAR Foundation in 2010 was serving as one of the NASCAR Day “Big Five” Service Projects. As part of the program, the “World Center of Racing” hosted 100 middle school students in the Nationwide Series garages where they learned around the education side of racing. For information on tickets for all Daytona International Speedway events, fans can visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com or call 1-800-PITSHOP.(DIS)(12-5-2010)
More Fan Friendly Initiatives Announced at Daytona: As part of its ongoing effort to enhance the race day experience for fans, Daytona International Speedway President Joie Chitwood III announced further enhancements to the speedway’s carry-in policy beginning in 2011. One of the great traditions in NASCAR is the fans’ ability to bring their own food and beverages to enjoy while watching the races. Also, race fans tend to stay in the facility for longer periods of time than in other sports.
To help make the race day experience more enjoyable, fans may now carry in soft-sided coolers that measure no greater than 14 x 14 x 14 inches or 2,700 cubic inches – six times the size previously permitted. Coolers of this size typically have a removable plastic liner and are branded to hold 24 to 36 cans of Coca-Cola or other beverages. To ensure these items fit underneath grandstand seats and do not block walkways, coolers with telescoping handles and wheels will not be permitted.
Safety improvements allow enhanced convenience for fans while continuing to provide a secure environment. Fan comfort and safety remains a top priority so all items carried into the speedway will be subject to a thorough and complete search by security personnel prior to entering the ticket gates.
In addition, to make it more convenient for fans to carry additional items such as cameras, radio scanners and souvenirs, fans can now utilize lightweight backpacks or daypacks similar to those used by school students. To facilitate the entry process, UPS Express lanes will be available for fans that are not carrying items which require search. In addition, there will be sufficient personnel on hand to ensure our guests can proceed through the gate quickly and get to their seats in a reasonable amount of time. As part of its standard policy, hard-sided coolers will not be allowed into the grandstand area. For tickets and more information on Daytona International Speedway events, visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com or call 1-800-PITSHOP.(DIS)(12-4-2010)
David Ragan delivers 53rd annual Daytona 500 tickets to race fans: To celebrate the delivery of 53rd annual Daytona 500 tickets around the world, David Ragan, driver of the #6 UPS Ford for Roush Fenway Racing, jumped into a UPS package car and visited the homes of longtime area ticket holders. Matthew Leon, Walter Gasowski and Joe Roll (collecting them for his sister Marie Frye) were presented with their tickets to “The Great American Race” on Sunday, Feb. 20. Ragan also delivered goodie bags to all three ticket holders as well as new 14x14x14 soft-sided coolers. It’s the second straight year Ragan has rode shotgun in the UPS package car through the streets of the Daytona Beach area delivering tickets. Following his ticket deliveries, Ragan visited more than 400 sixth graders of Silver Sands Middle School in Port Orange for a Racing to Read pep-rally with Volusia County Superintendent Margaret Smith, Principal Rick Inge and Daytona International Speedway President Joie Chitwood III. Students were briefed on the 2011 Racing to Read program where if they read 20 books between Nov. 15 and Jan. 14, they will have the choice of a free ticket to either the NextEra Energy Resources 250 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race, the DRIVE4COPD 300 NASCAR Nationwide Series race, the Daytona Supercross or an all-access tour of the Speedway. More than 50 schools across Volusia County are participating in the program. After giving kids encouragement to reach their reading goals and answering some questions, Ragan raced some students in an R/C car race. Tickets for the Daytona 500, which start at $55, and are available online at www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP.(DIS)(11-18-2010)
2011 Coke Zero 400 Tickets on Sale: On Saturday, Nov. 13, at 9:00am/et, race fans will have their first opportunity to purchase tickets for one of NASCAR’s most exciting nighttime races– the 53rd annual Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on July 2, 2011 at Daytona International Speedway. Tower seats are available starting at $85 and ticket prices for frontstretch grandstand seats start at $44. In addition, for the first time, special children advance pricing will be available for the Coke Zero 400. Tickets for children ages 12 and under are $10 and half-off junior prices are available for ages 13-17. Also, kids 12 and under are free in the Sprint FANZONE. More info on race tickets at Daytona International Speedway at daytonainternationalspeedway.com.(DIS)(11-13-2010)
Fans to Receive a Free Preview of the New 60-Minute All Access Tour at Daytona: Race fans living or visiting in the Central Florida region this weekend are in for a special treat. Daytona International Speedway President Joie Chitwood III is opening the doors and giving fans a chance to preview the new 60-minute All Access tour for free. The free tours will operate hourly from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. November 6 and 7, with the last tour departing at 4:00 pm. Beginning November 8, Daytona International Speedway Tours will provide the following three opportunities to go behind the scenes at the “World Center of Racing” seven days a week from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. A 60-minute All Access Tour; A 30-minute Speedway Tour and a three-hour special VIP tour. Guests will also be able to enjoy some of the other popular attractions during the speedway tours such as the winning car from the Daytona 500, the souvenir shop and the Fourth Turn Grill. Lastly, the Richard Petty Driving Experience will return to Daytona International Speedway once the track surface repaving project is completed. Tickets for the tours will be sold at the Daytona International Speedway ticket office. For tickets and more information on Daytona International Speedway events, visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com or call 1-800-PITSHOP.(DIS)(11-5-2010)
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)
ISC cuts jobs, keeps tightening belt: International Speedway Corp.[ISC] has cut more than 40 corporate positions -- all at its headquarters in Daytona, FL -- since announcing in August a company-wide initiative to reduce operational costs. The company's goal of reducing by 20% the size of its headquarters staff, which numbered 250 at the start of the year, has been met, said Dan Houser, ISC chief financial officer, said in a phone interview Thursday. Whether there will be additional job cuts will depend on the state of the economy, Houser said, although he added there are no further plans for staff reductions at this time. The company, hit by declining revenue because of the slow economy, has also responded by lowering ticket prices at its racetracks and putting some of its big development projects on hold, including its proposed entertainment/retail/dining complex across the street from Daytona International Speedway. ISC quietly severed ties late last year with the Baltimore-based developer that was to be a 50/50 partner in the planned Daytona Live! complex.(Daytona Beach News Journal)(10-8-2010)
Chitwood replaces Brag at Daytona: International Speedway Corporation announced it has named Joie Chitwood III President of Daytona International Speedway effective immediately. Current DIS President Robin Braig will leave to pursue other opportunities. Chitwood, 41, has been Vice President of Business Development for ISC since 2009. In this position, he led strategic development and oversaw business execution across the Company’s 13 motorsports facilities and Americrown Service Corp., ISC’s catering, concessions and merchandising subsidiary. Prior to joining ISC, Chitwood served as President and Chief Operating Officer of Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Before joining the IMS executive staff, Chitwood was Vice President and General Manager of Raceway Associates, LLC, which oversaw construction and operation of the 1.5-mile Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet, Ill., from 1999-2002. Also of note, Chitwood, beginning at the age of five, was an integral part of his family’s motorsports entertainment business, the well-known Chitwood Thrill Show.(DIS)(8-13-2010)
No plans to move Daytona July race: Wednesday, July 28, on SIRIUS NASCAR Radio, hosts Rick Benjamin and Chocolate Myers spoke with Robin Braig, President of Daytona International Speedway, who commented on the reports that there may be schedule changes in store for the Sprint Cup schedule in 2011.
Host/Rick Benjamin: “What dates will the races be held on, not just in February, we know that date, what about the second race next year? When will that be held?”
Robin Braig: “The July 4th race, you mean? I lost you.”
Benjamin: “Because there’s been talk that perhaps Daytona might move its second race [with] all the reshuffling of the schedule.”
Braig: “No, no, we don’t, no. There’s nothing changing…”
Benjamin: “Nothing to report from Daytona’s standpoint?”
Braig: “No, no. We love our July 4th race, have enjoyed it, it’s tradition. We don’t have any intention of moving off our date. And I know there’s talk about some other movement but it doesn’t include Daytona.”
“Tradin’ Paint,” with Rick Benjamin and Chocolate Myers, airs weekdays (11am-3pm ET) on SIRIUS NASCAR Radio, SIRIUS channel 128 and XM channel 128 for subscribers with the “Best of SIRIUS” programming package.(SIRIUS XM Radio)(7-29-2010)
Buy a Daytona 500 ticket, get a piece of asphalt: Daytona International Speedway is offering race fans the exclusive opportunity to purchase a ticket to witness history as well as receive a piece of history all at the same time. Beginning on Monday, Aug. 2 at 9 a.m. and running through midnight on Aug. 8, race fans that purchase tickets for the 53rd annual Daytona 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, Feb. 20 will automatically receive a portion of Daytona’s original asphalt. Race fans that have renewed their 2011 DAYTONA 500 tickets or purchased between June 18 and Aug. 1 will also receive this offer, which is limited to one piece of asphalt per account holder. Race fans can take advantage of this special offer by calling 1-800-PITSHOP or visiting www.daytona500.com.(DIS PR)(7-27-2010)
Daytona 500 Tickets On Sale: The race to purchase coveted tickets for the 53rd running of the Daytona 500 on Sunday, Feb. 20 is about to begin. Tickets for the 2011 edition of “The Great American Race” – NASCAR’s biggest, richest and most prestigious race – will go on sale this Friday at 9:00pm/et. Prior to Friday, June 18, only renewals for seat assignments for the 53rd running of the Daytona 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race were taken by the ticket office at Daytona International Speedway. For the third straight year, tickets for the 2011 Daytona 500 – which will be the first NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event on the new asphalt at Daytona International Speedway – will start at $55. Immediately following the Coke Zero 400 Weekend Powered By Coca-Cola on Monday, July 5, Daytona International Speedway’s entire 2.5-mile tri-oval will be repaved as well as the skid pads, apron and pit road. The repaving project will be completed in time for Speedweeks 2011 and the 2011 Daytona 500. For information and to buy tickets, go to daytonainternationalspeedway.com.(DIS)(6-17-2010)
Racing related deaths at Daytona:
Racing related deaths at Daytona International Speedway since the track opened in 1959:
1. Marshall Teague, NASCAR stock car practice, Feb. 11, 1959.
2. George Amick, USAC 100-mile race, April 4, 1959.
3. Dr. Bernie Taylor, powerboat race in infield lake, June 14, 1959.
4. Harold Haberling, NASCAR stock car practice, Feb. 21, 1964.
5. Billy Drew Wade, NASCAR stock car tire test, Jan. 5, 1965.
6. Don MacTavish, Sportsman 300 race, Feb. 21, 1969.
7. Wayne Harris Bartz, lightweight motorcycle race, March 12, 1969.
8. Talmadge "Tab" Prince, Twin 125-mile qualifying race, Feb. 19, 1970.
9. Joe "Rusty" Bradley, Daytona 200 race, March 14, 1971.
10. Davd Pearl, Paul Whiteman Trophy Race, July 30, 1971.
11. Friday Hassler, Twin 125-mile NASCAR qualifying race, Feb. 17, 1972.
12. Ricky Knotts, Twin 125-mile NASCAR qualifying race, Feb. 14, 1980.
13. Francis Affleck, ARCA stock car practice, Feb. 7, 1985.
14. Dr. Charles Ogle, stock car testing, injured Dec. 15, 1985, died Dec. 26, 1985.
15. Bruce Jacobi, Twin 125-mile NASCAR qualifying race, injured Feb. 1983, died Feb. 4, 1987.
16. Joe Young, Charlotte-Daytona Dash race, Feb. 13, 1987.
17. James Kolman, kart testing, Dec. 27, 1987.
18. Randy Glenn, motorcycle practice, Feb. 26, 1988.
19. Don Williams, Sportsman 300 race, injured Feb. 1979, died May 21, 1989.
20. Dale Robertson, kart race, Dec. 27, 1989.
21. Julius Johnson, ARCA 200 stock car race, injured Feb. 11, 1990, died Feb. 14, 1990.
22. Joe Booher, Florida 200 Dash race, Feb. 12, 1993.
23. James Adamo, motorcyle race, March 7, 1993.
24. Neil Bonnett, NASCAR stock car practice, Feb. 11, 1994.
25. Rodney Orr, NASCAR stock car practice, Feb. 14, 1994.
26. Michael Himes, IMSA Two-Hour endurance race, Jan. 31, 1997.
27. Dale Earnhardt, NASCAR Daytona 500, Feb. 18, 2001.
28. Roy H. Weaver III, Dash Series race, Feb. 8, 2003.
(Orlando Sentinel)
Qualifying Procedure for the Gatorade Duels/Daytona 500:
Pole Day: This “locks in” the first two positions – the front row – for the Daytona 500. It also establishes the starting orders for the Gatorade Duel at Daytona, which are two 150-mile qualifying races for the Daytona 500.
The fastest car earns the pole for the Daytona 500 AND the pole for the first Gatorade Duel race.
The second-fastest car earns the outside pole for the Daytona 500 AND the pole for the second Gatorade Duel race.
The Gatorade Duel at Daytona: These two 150-mile qualifying races set positions 3-39 for the Daytona 500.
A combined total of 66 cars will be allowed into the two Gatorade Duel races.
Cars must compete in one of the Gatorade Duel races, in order to race in the Daytona 500.
Odd-number finishers in the final car owner point standings from the previous season (1st, 3rd, 5th, etc.) are in the first Gatorade Duel race.
Even-number finishers in the final car owner point standings from the previous season (2nd, 4th, 6th, etc.) are in the second Gatorade Duel race.
Additional qualified cars that weren’t in the final top 35 are alternated between the two Gatorade Duel fields using an odd-even format.
Setting the Daytona 500 field:
Cars that finished in the top 35 car owner point standings from the previous season automatically make the Daytona 500 field.
The top two starting positions are determined by Pole Day qualifying speeds.
Positions 3-39 are determined by finishing orders in the Gatorade Duel races.
The final four spots in the 43-car field will be based on Pole Day qualifying speeds of cars that have not already earned a starting position. However, if there is an eligible Sprint Cup Series past champion entered who has not already qualified, that past champion will receive the 43rd and final position. If there is more than one past champion eligible for this berth, it goes to the most recent champion.
another way to look at it:
The following cars will be assigned to the first of the two qualifying races:
The odd-number positions (1st, 3rd, 5th, etc.) of the highest-ranked 35 finishers in the final previous NASCAR Sprint Cup Series car owner points standings.
The pole winner from Pole Qualifying scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 8. Should the pole winner be among the highest-ranked 35 in the the previous season owner points, the pole winner will start in the first race regardless of his odd or even position in those standings.
The following cars will be assigned to the second of the two qualifying races:
The even-number positions (2nd, 4th, 6th, etc.) of the highest-ranked 35 finishers in the final previous season NASCAR Sprint Cup Series car owner points standings.
The second-fastest qualifier from Pole Qualifying. Should this car be among the highest-ranked 35 in the previous season owner points, it will start in the second race regardless of its odd or even position in those standings.
Additional cars that were not among the highest-ranked 35 in the final previous season car owner points will be alternated between the first and second 150-mile qualifying events using an odd-even format. The odd-number positions will be assigned to the first qualifier while the even-number positions will be assigned to the second qualifier.
The odd-even positions are not determined by where the car qualified in the overall field, but their specific qualifying order among those cars not part of the highest-ranked 35 group. For example, a car qualifies eighth overall in Pole qualifying, but ranks third-fastest among those cars not part of the highest-ranked 35. That car would be an odd-number position and start in the first race as a result of its qualifying standing of those cars not in the highest-ranked 35.
The lineup for each qualifying race will be set based upon the qualifying speeds in the time trials for all cars, including those who are among the highest-ranked 35 in the final previous season car owner point standings. The highest-ranked 35 designation does not determine the car’s starting position, only the assignment of its 150-mile qualifying event.
A maximum of 66 cars will be permitted to compete between the two qualifying races, and all cars must compete in one of these events to be eligible for the Daytona 500.
Starting positions for the Daytona 500 will be designated for the highest-ranked 35 positions from the final previous season car owner point standings from each qualifier, the two-highest finishing cars in each qualifier not among that highest-ranked 35 group and the two front-row qualifiers.
The balance of the 43-car field will be filled by the fastest remaining qualifiers who have not earned a starting position, with the exception of the 43rd position which will be assigned to an eligible former or current Sprint Cup Series champion. Should there not be an eligible champion, the position will be assigned to the next fastest qualifier not in the field.
- The simple version: how the Daytona 500 lineup is set:
Pos 1 and 2: Pole sitter and outside pole sitter from qualifying
[no need to be top 35 in prevoius season car Owners Points]
Pos 3 thru 39: top 35 in prevoius season car owners points and two highest finishing teams in each Gatorade Duel races race NOT in the top 35 set by their finishing postion in the Gatorade Duel races.
Pos 40-42: fastest qualifiers not in by above
Pos 43: past champion provisional - at this point only. Otherwise the spot goes to the next fastest qualifier.
- The Gatorade Duel races:
The Daytona 500 pole-sitter will start on the pole of the first Gatorade Duel at Daytona. The outside pole winner will start on the pole of the second qualifying race.
Cars that finished in odd positions (first, third, fifth, etc.) in owner's points last season will fill the first qualifying race, and those with even-number finishes will compete in the second race. The lineup for each qualifying race will be set based on the qualifying speeds. Owner's points do not determine the car's starting position, only which of the two Duel races in which it will race.
Cars that were not among the highest-ranked 35 in the previous season will be alternately entered into the two 150-mile qualifying events based on qualifying speeds. The non-top 35 car with the fastest qualifying time is entered into the first (odd) Duel race, the next-fastest in the second (even) race and so on.
All 77: Three drivers had competed in all 77 restrictor-plate races at Daytona and Talladega:
#01-Mark Martin (2 Talladega, 0 Daytona wins)
#21-Ken Schrader (1, 0)
#55-Michael Waltrip (1, 3)
until Talladega in April 2007, when Waltrip & Schrader failed to qualify and Martin didn't run the race.
Plus all three ran the one-off restrictor plate race at New Hampshire, but that was not a drafting/aero track.(4-29-2007)
