Honorary Starter, Grand Marshal announced for Talladega: Talladega Superspeedway announced the Grand Marshal and Honorary Starter for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series GEICO 500 on Sunday, May 1.
Master Sergeant Larry D. Nix, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL, will serve as the Grand Marshal and give the most famous words in motorsports, "Drivers, Start Your Engines," bookending pre-race ceremonies at the 2.66-mile superspeedway. Bringing 40 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers to the green flag as Honorary Starter will be Aerospace Medical Services Technician Senior Airman Maxime V. Copley, also from the Maxwell Air Force Base.
MSgt Nix is currently responsible for the training of 1,700 students annually that are commissioned in the Chaplain, Healthcare and JAG Corps. MSgt Nix enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1998. In addition to being awarded the Bronze Star, MSgt Nix has acquired numerous prestigious decorations and awards including: Joint Service Commendation Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal with One Silver Leaf Cluster, Army Commendation Medal and Air Force Achievement Medal with Three Oak Leaf Clusters.
SrA Copley is currently assigned to 42d Medical Operations Squadron and performs a wide range of medical roles. She provides essential care in assisting 5 providers who care for patients in various situations such as immunizations and Pediatric screenings. SrA Copley was awarded the Hard Charger Award, 42d MDOS in 2015. Her other achievements include: 2015 Airman of the Second Quarter, 42d MDOS, 2015 Airman of the Year Award, 42d Air Base Wing and 2015 Airman of the Year, Team Maxwell.(TSS)(4-22-2016)
Talladega adds "Talla-Mento Dogwich" to GEICO 500 Weekend Menu Fans will be sinking their teeth into Talladega Superspeedway's new signature hot dog - the Talla-Mento Dogwich -during the track's upcoming GEICO 500 race weekend, April 29-May 31. The Talla-Mento Dogwich is a grilled, all beef hot dog, split in two and placed on top of melted Yancey's Fancy buffalo cheddar cheese, topped with a generous helping of Pimiento Cheese, then placed between two slices of golden brown, grilled Texas toast and cut down the middle. Talladega is cutting no corners on this dish, using Yancey's Fancy New York's Artisan signature spicy buffalo cheese and cheddar cheese to drive home the flavor. Yancey's Fancy has specialized in hand crafted cheeses for more than 60 years, with a reputation for producing high quality products. The Talla-Mento Dogwich ($5) will be sold in the O.V. Hill North and South Grandstands as well as the Tri-Oval Tower and all Infield Locations. The Big One Meatball ($13) will be sold at concession stands in the Gadsden and O.V. Hill South Grandstands, along with the Tri-Oval Tower along the frontstretch.(TSS)(4-20-2016)
Talladega names XFINITY race sponsor: Sparks Energy Inc., an electrical operations and restoration company based out of Decatur, AL, has partnered with NASCAR's Most Competitive and Energized Track - Talladega Superspeedway - to become the entitlement sponsor of the Sparks Energy 300 NASCAR XFINITY Series race on Saturday, April 30. The Sparks Energy 300 will be a high voltage battle between the best drivers of the NASCAR XFINITY Series against some of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series regulars that could provide an all-but-guaranteed spot in the Series' season-ending Championship Chase. Since 2007, Sparks Energy Inc. has provided services on high voltage powerlines and industrial systems across the United States with a focus in transmission and distribution. Their services include; storm response, transmission and distribution construction, live line maintenance, line clearing, substations and engineering. As the leader in the high voltage industry, the company is proud to sponsor the Sparks Energy 300 at the mammoth 2.66-mile track this spring and looks forward to making its debut in NASCAR, exposing the energy brand to Talladega Superspeedway's fans.(TSS)(4-1-2016)
Big & Rich in concert at Talladega: Guess who is Comin' to Your Infield City at Talladega Superspeedway. The party will be rockin' and rollin' this spring at NASCAR's biggest and baddest track as the iconic country duo Big & Rich, featuring Cowboy Troy, will perform Talladega Superspeedway's traditional Saturday Night Concert on April 30 as part of the track's spring race weekend, featuring the GEICO 500. After a day of epic racing with the Talladega 300 NASCAR XFINITY Series earlier on Saturday, the 'Dega faithful will be treated to a grand time with Big & Rich for one of the most anticipated Saturday Night Concerts ever at NASCAR's Most Competitive track. John, Big Kenny and Troy will play a host of all-time favorites, as well as their highly successful album titled "Gravity" that has had back-to-back top ten hits - "Look at You" and "Run Away With You."America's Technicolor cowboys, John Rich and Big Kenny Alphin are first-rate musicians, songwriters, producers and entertainers. Together, they are one of the most original musical forces ever unleashed on the industry. Their partner in crime, Cowboy Troy, will be right there as well, as the self-proclaimed "hick-hop" artist continues to amaze the masses with his own brand of southern, country-fried rap that has turned heads for years.(TSS)(3-30-2016)
Logano wins at Talladega: #22-Joey Logano won the CampingWorld.com 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Talladega Superspeedway for his 6th win of the season, 1st win at Talladega and 14th career win. Logano led 20 of the 196 laps.
It was an unusual end to the race. First, coming to the green flag for the green-white-checkered finish, #48-Johnson and #42-Larson spun out as the cars got through the restart zone. NASCAR had thrown the green flag, but put the yellow back out before the cars got to the start-finish line and froze the field to attempt another restart.
Then on the next restart, #4-Harvick, who had been reporting engine problems, failed to get a clean start. #6-Bayne passed Harvick, but made contact with him trying to get back in line and was spun out. Several drivers accused Harvick of intentionally wrecking Bayne. About a dozen cars were collected and NASCAR threw the caution just past the start finish line.
NASCAR had to review video tape to determine Logano was in the lead at the time the caution came out and establish the finishing order for the rest of the field.
Logano won all 3 races in the Contender round of The Chase.
#88-Earnhardt, Jr. finished 2nd followed by #24-Gordon, #2-Keselowski, #19-Edwards, #27-Menard, #78-Truex, Jr, #15-Bowyer, #17-Stenhouse, Jr., and #41-Busch.
#11-Hamlin, #31-Newman, #88-Earnhardt, Jr., and #20-Kenseth were eliminated from the Chase.
The race went caution free for the first 131 laps, the longest green flag stretch to start a race this season.
There were 30 lead changes among 18 drivers and 3 cautions for 18 yellow flag laps.
The average speed was 167.311mph.
See unofficial race results, awards, money won, laps led, cautions and more on the Unofficial Race Results page (pdf) and check out the Penalty Report (pdf) and Lap Summary Report (pdf).
See the Unofficial Drivers Points Standings page (pdf) and Unofficial Owners Points Standings page (pdf).
(10-25-2015)
B-2 Stealth Bomber to do flyover at Talladega: Talladega Superspeedway is known as the biggest and baddest race track on the planet. The U.S. Air Force B-2 Stealth Bomber may not be the biggest, but it is no doubt the baddest aircraft that one will ever see. The two will come together Sunday for the most anticipated NASCAR Sprint Cup race of 2015 - the CampingWorld.com 500. The B-2 Stealth, which sports an incredible 172-foot wingspan, will be part of the pre-race ceremonies for the CampingWorld.com 500, providing an unforgettable flyover at the end of the National Anthem, which will be performed by the 313th United States Army Band. The flyover will take place just moments before the drop of the green flag for the CampingWorld.com 500, the final race of the Contender Round in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup in which the field of 12 eligible drivers for the title will be trimmed to eight at the checkered flag. The pilots and ground crew with the B-2 Stealth Bomber are from the 13th Bomb Squadron, one of the oldest units in the United States Air Force, under the 509th Bomb Wing in Whiteman Air Force Base, MO - the only location in the world with B-2 Stealth Bombers. The 509th Bomb Wing led the way for America's first military response after the terrorist attacks on New York and Washington, D.C. in 2001. It was the first U.S. aircraft to enter Afghan airspace and flew roundtrip from Missouri, logging combat missions in excess of 40 hours - the longest on record. It paved the way for other coalition aircraft to engage Taliban and Al Queda forces.(TSS)(10-23-2015)
Drivers to meet young fans at Talladega: NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers Danica Patrick, Aric Almirola, AJ Allmendinger and Ryan Blaney are scheduled to appear for a Talladega Superspeedway special youth autograph session during the Alabama 500/fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola race weekend upcoming Oct. 23-25. On Saturday, Oct. 24 at 10:45am/ct in the track's Hospitality Village, located behind the Birmingham Tower outside the frontstretch, the first 100 children (12 and under only) to pick up a wristband at the main Guest Services Office located at OV Hill South Grandstand Section L will have the chance to get an autograph from each participating driver (limit one per child and time permitting). Participants will be allowed to start lining up for the youth autograph session at 10:00am/ct. Talladega Superspeedway has great ticket offers for kids 12 & under for both Saturday and Sunday, which will showcase the final race of the Contender Round in the NASCAR Chase for the Sprint Cup in which the list of 12 eligible drivers to the title will be reduced to eight at the checkered flag. Those kids' deals include $50 off the regular price throughout the lower grandstands and towers while they can sit free in the fourth turn Gadsden grandstand while supplies last.(TSS)(10-18-2015)
Daytona & Talladega hosting country music festivals in 2016: Daytona International Speedway will host the inaugural Country 500 music festival featuring Luke Bryan, Florida Georgia Line, Kid Rock, TBA, Lady Antebellum, Willie Nelson and dozens more over Memorial Day Weekend-May 27, 28 & 29, 2016. The complete Country 500 lineup, including the Friday night headliner, will be released on November 3 and tickets, camping and VIP packages will go on sale to the public the same day. Fans should plan to take advantage of the special early bird pricing ($199) for weekend general admission passes beginning on November 3. Also called "The Great American Music Fest at Daytona," the Country 500 festival will feature the biggest stars in country music spread over three days and nights, programmed on three huge performance stages-all specially designed and built for the festival. Country 500 will take place on the infield of the world-famous Daytona International Speedway, a historic first mega-music festival inside the hallowed grounds of one of the most iconic motorsports venues in America. Just as it is for the great races at the Speedway, Country 500 will allow fans to actually camp out in the infield, literally inside the festival. A full-range of camping opportunities is available for virtually any budget, from pitching a tent to deluxe RV locations. Special VIP packages called "Crew Chief VIP Experience" and "VIP Pit Pass" allow for an exclusive upfront, golden-circle viewing area at the main stage with side stage access at the other performances areas plus access to comfortable hospitality areas, private cash bars and many other comforts and amenities. Visit Country500.com for all the Country 500 details.(DIS)
AND: Talladega Superspeedway, one of the most storied motorsports venues in America, is set to host a huge rockin' country music festival over the most American of holidays, Fourth of July Weekend, July 1-3, 2016. Dega Jam, which will take place in the infield of the biggest and baddest race track on the planet, will feature the most popular stars in country music. Spread over three days and nights and programmed on three specially designed performance stages, the mega-music festival will offer fans a thrilling new way to celebrate the entire holiday weekend. The complete artist lineup will be announced on October 25 with tickets and VIP packages on sale to the public the same day. Just as it is for the great races at the Talladega Superspeedway, NASCAR's Most Competitive track, Dega Jam will allow fans to camp in the infield, literally inside the festival. A full-range of camping opportunities is available for virtually any budget, from pitching a tent to deluxe RV locations adjacent to the stages. Special VIP packages will allow for a variety of special privileges. VIP packages will be available in limited quantities. Visit DegaJam.com to sign up for the mailing list to receive information on tickets, camping, VIP opportunities and all the Jam details, including a list of participating area hotels and travel packages.
(TSS)(10-16-2015)
Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola Colonel Eric F. Buer to Award Traditional Freedom Trophy: The Freedom Trophy, Talladega Superspeedway's newest tradition to honor our Country's military, will be presented to the winner of the CampingWorld.com 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, Oct. 25 by Colonel Eric F. Buer, United States Marine Corp Pensacola, FL. The coveted Freedom Trophy was introduced by Talladega Superspeedway track officials in May of 2014. It is awarded to every winner of a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race held at NASCAR's Most Competitive track by a member of one of the five military branches of the United States. Colonel Buer will have the distinguished honor of making the presentation after the drop of the checkered flag at the CampingWorld.com 500, the final race in Contender Round of the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, where the field of 12-drivers eligible for the title will be cut to eight. The Freedom Trophy is a spectacular work of art. Silver aluminum panels, complete with a design of each military branch service member and branch logo are showcased, along with a star that is a waterjet cut in the center. Black stained wood makes up the trophy's base, with circular discs at the bottom while the top is made of black acrylic that includes the Talladega Superspeedway logo, the date of the race and the name of the base awarding the trophy.
Colonel Buer, who was part of the well-known "Blue Knights," has been presented with numerous prestigious honors, awards and military decorations that include: the Navy Commendation Medal with Gold Star, the Joint Service Achievement Medal, the Navy Achievement Medal, the Defense Service Medal with OLC Distinguished Flying Cross with 'V', the Meritorious Service Medal with Gold Star and the Air Medal with 'V' gold numeral 2 and Strike/Flight numeral 17. After he was commissioned through the Platoon Leaders Class in 1988, he attended the Basic School and Infantry Officers Course and then reported to Pensacola, Florida's Naval Air Station for flight training.
In 1991, Buer joined the "Gunrunners" of Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 269 to fly the AH-1W Super Cobra and deployed with the "Thunder Chickens," in 1992, in support of Operation Teamwork in Norway, Operation's Cease Fire in the Persian Gulf and Restore Hope in Somalia. In 1994, he deployed with the "Blue Knights" in support of Operation's Continue Hope in Somalia, Deny Flight/Provide Promise in the Adriatic Sea and in 1995, in support of Operation Joint Endeavour in the Former Yugoslavia. In 2001 he graduated from the USMC Command and Staff College and rejoined the "Gunrunners," serving as the Maintenance Officer for the squadron's deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, as well as Operation Iraqi Freedom II in 2004 and Operation Iraqi Freedom 04-06 in 2005. In 2010, Buer received assignment to the National War College as Professor of National Security Strategy and Policy and then was deployed as a Special Advisor to Headquarters, International Security Assistance Force, Kabul, Afghanistan in 2012.
"We are extremely proud to continue the prestigious Freedom Trophy ritual here at Talladega Superspeedway," said Talladega Superspeedway Chairman Grant Lynch. "There's nothing we like more than showing support for our country's troops who fight each and every day for our freedom so that we can put on NASCAR events here. They deserve all the recognition in the world. We can't wait to have Colonel Eric F. Buer with us for the CampingWorld.com 500."
Talladega Superspeedway has always proudly brought patriotic elements to the grand 2.66-mile venue, showcasing some of the most recognizable displays to celebrate troops in all of NASCAR. Talladega works closely with numerous military bases throughout the southeast to bring members of the military to NASCAR's biggest and baddest track. In addition to recognizing the military through the Freedom Trophy, Talladega Superspeedway is proud to offer special ticket prices for all members of the military and their families for its race weekends. For more information, visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com/military.
Talladega's weekend kicks off on Friday (Oct. 23) with practice sessions for both the fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola and the CampingWorld.com 500. Saturday's (Oct. 24) slate includes Foodland/Food Giant Qualifying for the CampingWorld.com 500, time trials for the fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola, as well as the drop of the green flag for the fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race (starting at noon CDT). The event will feature veterans like Matt Crafton and Johnny Sauter as they try to hold off hard-charging young guns like Erik Jones, Tyler Reddick and Timothy Peters, the defending champion. For all ticket information, call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(10-13-2015)
Singer Eric Church named at the Honorary "Pace Car Driver" at Talladega: Country Music Association and four-time Academy of Country Music Award winner Eric Church, who is currently nominated for five CMA Awards, including Single of the Year for "Talladega", will serve as the Honorary "Pace Car Driver" for the CampingWorld.com 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Talladega Superspeedway on Sunday, October 25. Church, nominated for CMA's Entertainer of the Year, will lead the 43-driver starting grid around the biggest and baddest race track on the planet prior to the start of the third and final race of the Contender Round of the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup in which 12 eligible drivers for the title will be reduced to eight at the checkered flag. Driving on the track's mammoth, 33-degree high banked turns in the Official Chevrolet SS Pace Car, Church will lead the field to the green flag to start the much anticipated CampingWorld.com 500. Check out www.talladegasuperspeedway.com for more information or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(10-12-2015)
Green-white-checkered policy may be altered for Talladega: Will there be new rules for NASCAR's "crapshoot " race of the Chase for the Sprint Cup - the CampingWorld.com 500 at Talladega Superspeedway? The sanctioning body and competitors have discussed different formats for the finish that should make the ending less precarious should the race go into overtime on restrictor-plate tracks. One scenario would use just one green-white-checkered finish to determine the outcome. Multiple restarts mean multiple opportunities to wreck race cars. Another format would could be a single-file restart which would discourage side-by-side contact coming to the green. "They're trying to eliminate the Austin Dillon situation - the big wad of cars at the end of the race," Denny Hamlin said, referring to the #3 car flipping into the catchfence at Daytona in July after making contact with the #11 Toyota and collecting a dozen cars in the process. Despite the dialogue, as of Saturday afternoon a representative from NASCAR says nothing has been determined for Talladega.(Motorsport)(10-11-2015)
Talladega adds SAFER barrier to cover entire track: Statement from Talladega Superspeedway chairman Grant Lynch on safety initiatives: "Working closely with NASCAR and International Speedway Corporation (ISC), Talladega Superspeedway performed an extensive review of its facility and outlined significant safety enhancements that will be in place prior to our NASCAR weekend, Oct. 23-25. Working with Cheaha Construction, we have installed more than 8,000 linear feet of Steel and Foam Energy Reduction (SAFER) Barrier in 2015. We are covering the entire outside and interior retaining walls of the 2.66-mile facility. Safety of our competitors and fans is our top priority and we will continue to review the facility and provide updates as circumstances warrant. We look forward to a tremendous NASCAR weekend featuring the third and final race of the Contender Round in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup. The Oct. 23-25 weekend will feature the CampingWorld.com 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race and the fred's 250 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series event. The CampingWorld.com 500 is the final race of the Contender Round in the 2015 Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup in which the field of 12 eligible drivers to the title will be cut from 12 to eight at the checkered flag. Tickets are available by calling 1-877-Go2-DEGA or by visiting www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(10-9-2015)
New Fanatics NASCAR Trackside Superstore at Talladega: Race fans coming to Talladega Superspeedway for the CampingWorld.com 500 and fred's 250 Weekend (October 23-25) will experience a whole new way to shop for merchandise of their favorite drivers. The new Fanatics NASCAR Trackside Superstore, which will be located in the track's Horsepower Plaza outside the frontstrech near turn four, is replacing separate souvenir haulers from years past, revolutionizing the retail experience. Fanatics, the largest retailer of officially licensed sports merchandise, has partnered with NASCAR to run the at-track merchandise business for the sport, delivering fans an enhanced, experiential shopping environment. Fanatics powers the eCommerce business for hundreds of top sports leagues, teams and schools, including a long history running NASCAR's eCommerce business, and incorporates its industry-leading technology into the new retail model to create the ultimate shopping experience for NASCAR fans. Fans attending the fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola (NASCAR Camping World Truck Series) on Oct. 24 and the CampingWorld.com 500 (NASCAR Sprint Cup Series) on Oct. 25 will experience the new 60,000-square foot tent and can browse in comfort through covered 16 x 10-foot modules dedicated to their favorite drivers and teams. In addition to the NASCAR Trackside Superstore, Horsepower Plaza is also the location for many other fan-friendly displays and activities for fans to enjoy throughout the weekend. The Fanatics NASCAR Trackside Superstore, which debuted in Pocono in early August, will have enhanced benefits including a larger merchandise selection with more drivers represented, quick and easy checkout, a more functional way to browse, shop and interact with merchandise and a dedicated area for driver appearances. Log on to www.talladegasupespeedway.com or call 877-Go2-DEGA for more information and tickets (Talladega Superspeedway)(10-6-2015)
'The Big One on the Blvd' at Talladega is NASCAR'S Biggest Party: As anticipation continues to grow among both drivers and fans alike for NASCAR'S premier off-track party, "The Big One on the Blvd," on Friday, Oct. 23, Talladega Superspeedway announced a lineup of outrageous fun with sights only able to be seen at NASCAR's "Party Capital". Fans attending this Friday night extravaganza have the possibility to join some fierce competitors for never before seen fan competitions, where fans will have a chance to not only win a lifetime of bragging rights but a unique Talladega inspired trophy to commemorate each event. Participants are encouraged to wear their most creative of outfits to stand out in front of NASCAR's top drivers for a Costume Contest. Fans can also attempt to eat their way through as many of the track's famous 1-pound "Big One Meatballs" as they can during the 'Big One' Eating Contest. If that isn't enough, contestants can get down and dirty in "The 'Dega Cherry Chase", a one-of-a-kind course challenge which you'll just have to see to believe. The best part of all is that the huge crowd gathered in Talladega Superspeedway's infamous infield, along with many of the stars of NASCAR, will determine which fans come out on top in these mind-blowing competitions. "The Big One on the Blvd" will get rolling at 6:45 p.m. CDT on Friday evening at the north end of Talladega Boulevard. From there, drivers can be found on the float throwing out swag and welcoming race fans to the party that trumps all others. The float will pass through the most colorfully decorated campsites in all of NASCAR and wind up in the south end of the Blvd at the main stage for the fan competitions.(TSS)(10-3-2015)
Camping World Partnership with Talladega Superspeedway Rekindled: Marcus Lemonis, Chairman and CEO of Camping World and Good Sam Enterprises, and Talladega Superspeedway announced that the fall NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race, on Sunday, Oct. 25 at NASCAR's Most Competitive Track, will be known as the CampingWorld.com 500. Camping World is the camping and recreational vehicle enthusiast's one-stop-shop for everything they need to enjoy traveling and living in their RV. Along with over 10,000 RV parts and accessories, Camping World offers a full selection of new and used RVs for sale; RV and tow vehicle service and maintenance; collision centers; detail and refurbishment centers known as the RV Spa, technical advice from knowledgeable experts; and hard-to-find parts. The partnership rekindles a relationship between Talladega Superspeedway and Camping World that existed from 2011-2013 when the company served as the entitlement sponsor for the fall NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Talladega. The CampingWorld.com 500 will be the anchor event of an exciting weekend (Oct. 23-25) that will also feature the fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race.
"We are glad to be back with Talladega Superspeedway, the most competitive track in all of NASCAR," said Lemonis. "Not only will the CampingWorld.com 500 be one of the most exciting races of the season, it also gives us the platform to expose race fans to our broad selection of camping and tailgating products. Our company has a great appreciation of what Talladega is in the world of sports."
Plans are for Lemonis to serve as Grand Marshal of the CampingWorld.com 500. Many know him as the "business turnaround king" and star of CNBC's prime time reality series, The Profit, in which he lends his expertise to struggling small businesses around the country and judges businesses based on a "Three P" principle: People, Process, and Product. The new season of the show is expected to premiere later that week.
"We are thrilled to have Marcus and Camping World back in the Talladega Superspeedway family," said Talladega Superspeedway Chairman Grant Lynch. "It is a world class company with a sterling reputation and a great fit with our passionate fans that will travel in their RVs from all over the country to witness this anticipated event. We have the most acreage for camping, including the only FREE camping (select areas) on the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series circuit. The CampingWorld.com 500 will be extra special this year since it is the third and final race of The Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup's Contender Round in which the field of 12 drivers who have a shot at the title will be dwindled down to eight at the race's conclusion. It's going to be a great weekend."
Talladega Superspeedway is not only the biggest and steepest race track (2.66-mile, 33-degree banking) in NASCAR, but it also has the most acreage (3,000) for vehicle parking, which includes the only FREE camping on the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series circuit. The track offers both reserved and unreserved campgrounds throughout the property, a natural fit with Camping World's status as the nation's leader in RV-related sales and services.
Started from a single retail store in 1966 out of Bowling Green, Kentucky, and a small group of RV owners with a goal to support other RVers on the road, the Lincolnshire, Illinois-based Camping World has celebrated tremendous growth over the last 50 years. By helping outdoor enthusiasts get on the road to their next adventure, Camping World brings friends and families together through their love of camping and the outdoors. Today, Camping World has grown to encompass a nationwide network of over 115 SuperCenters in 36 states to serve the expanding RV and outdoor lifestyle.
In 2016 Camping World, America's number one RV and camping retailer, will be celebrating its 50th anniversary by giving customers an even better reason to get outdoors; by offering their best product specials and a wide variety of exciting events and promotions throughout the course of the year. Through its nationwide network of SuperCenters, Camping World offers a wide variety of products and services to suit the outdoor lifestyle, including RVs, camping accessories, RV maintenance and repair. Camping World has served as title sponsor of the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series since 2009 in addition to being the Official RV and Outdoor Retailer of NASCAR.
Talladega's weekend kicks off on Friday (Oct. 23) with practice sessions for both the fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola and the CampingWorld.com 500. Saturday's (Oct. 24) slate includes qualifying for both races, as well as the drop of the green flag for the fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race (starting at 12:00pm/ct). The CampingWorld.com 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, Oct. 25 (starting at 1:30 pm/ct) will be the deciding race in the NASCAR Chase for the Sprint Cup Contender Round in which the championship field will be cut from 12 to eight at the checkered flag. Info about tickets at talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(9-23-2015)
"Bama Bier Garden" To Again Offer Talladega Fans Great Traditional Local Flavor Refreshments: In a continuing effort to maintain its worldwide reputation as a top-notch social event destination, Talladega Superspeedway will once again bring back the "Bama Bier Garden," located in Horsepower Plaza outside the track behind the frontstretch, for the Alabama 500/fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola race weekend upcoming Oct. 23-25. Open to the public, visitors to the "Bama Bier Garden" can once again indulge in local craft beer and a variety of interactive games throughout one of the most pivotal race weekends of the entire 2015 NASCAR season. The "Bama Bier Garden" will be open from 9:00am (CDT) until track activity is completed on Friday, Oct. 23 and will open at 8:00am on both Saturday, Oct. 24 and Sunday, Oct. 25 until one hour after the checkered flag flies. The "Bama Bier Garden," equipped with a 40-foot full bar, will serve the traditional spread of Miller, Coors and Budweiser beers, but there will also be a selection of savory beers that are brewed right here in Alabama. Local flavors to be featured include the likes of Back Forty Beer Company based out of Gadsden, Ala. and TrimTab Brewing Co., out of Birmingham, Ala. While enjoying one of the many beverage options fans can also dive into some delicious food with a local Alabama flair.
In addition to a variety of concession stands on the property, other refreshment areas include the Tervis Bar, which will also feature flavors from Back Forty Beer Company, and Fun Fuser, which can be found at the North end of the Horsepower Plaza, and the Budweiser Port-a-Bar at the South end of the Horsepower Plaza. Also open in the grandstands will be the Tower Tavern in the Tri-Oval Tower. The infield is thoroughly represented as well with the Miller Lite Pavilion and the Bootlegger Draft and Cocktail bar.
Fans will have three days worth of opportunities to quench their thirst at the "Bama Bier Garden." Talladega's weekend kicks off Friday (Oct. 23) with two practice sessions each for the Alabama 500 (NASCAR Sprint Cup Series) and fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola (NASCAR Camping World Truck Series). The evening will conclude with the return of "The Big One on the Blvd," a one-of-a-kind extravaganza, which will feature some of NASCAR's star drivers and fan competitions on the track's infamous Talladega Blvd in the infield.
Saturday's slate includes qualifying at 9:30 a.m. (All times in CDT) and the start of the fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola at noon, followed by qualifying for the Alabama 500 (3:15 p.m.). The day will conclude in the evening with Talladega Superspeedway's traditional Infield Concert featuring award-winning country music artist Easton Corbin. The concert is free with the purchase of a Sunday admission ticket to the Alabama 500 (1:30 p.m. start). For ticket information, call 1-877-Go2-DEGA or visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.
All seating along the frontstretch grandstands and towers is equipped with roomy and comfortable 21- and 22-inch wide chair back seats. Large High Definition Sprint Vision video boards that were implemented in 2014 will be back and placed along the frontstretch to provide views of the whole track to every seat in the house. The video boards, four of which are now permanent, are an initiative that is planned to be implemented at all International Speedway Corporation (ISC) tracks in the coming years.(Talladega Superspeedway)(9-22-2015)
Easton Corbin To Be Featured Artist at Talladega Superspeedway Saturday Night Infield Concert: Award-winning Mercury Nashville recording artist Easton Corbin will thrill Talladega Superspeedway fans with his unique style of country music as the headliner for the track's traditional Saturday Night Infield Concert, Oct. 24, all part of an incredible weekend of racing that will include the fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola and the Alabama 500. Corbin will take the stage at NASCAR's "Party Capital" just hours after the conclusion of the fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race, and the night before the Alabama 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event (Sunday, Oct. 25), the final race in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Contender Round which will see the field of drivers reduced from 12 to eight at the checkered flag. While at Talladega Superspeedway, Corbin will rock the rowdy infield crowd of the biggest and baddest race track on the planet well into the night at the intersection of Eastaboga and Talladega Boulevards. The best part about the concert is that admission is free with the purchase of a Sunday race ticket for the Alabama 500 (starting at 1:30 p.m. CDT). Corbin's performance will mark the second straight evening of fun activities in the infield. On Friday night, the track will host its fourth "Big One on The Blvd" extravaganza featuring NASCAR's top drivers and loads of fan fun. For ticket information on the track's three days of activity (Oct. 23-25), log onto www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(9-13-2015)
Dale Earnhardt Jr. First Driver Named for Talladega's Q&A Session UPDATE more drivers added: #88-Dale Earnhardt, Jr., Talladega Superspeedway's most recent winner, has been named the first driver scheduled to take part in the track's Pre-Race Fan Question & Answer Session at the start-finish line on Sunday, Oct. 25, prior to the start of the Alabama 500. Race fans will get to ask Earnhardt Jr. questions in advance of the most anticipated race of the season where the field of 12 Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup contenders will be trimmed to eight at the checkered flag of the Alabama 500. Fans that purchase Talladega's "Pit Pass Upgrade" can have access to this special session, which is tentatively scheduled from 10:00-11:20 AM (CDT). Not only can they get an up-close look at NASCAR's finest with the Pit Pass Upgrade, but they can also take in all the festive activities at the pre-race stage, including Driver Introductions. Additional drivers/personalities that will be part of the fan Q&A line-up will be announced in the near future. In addition to the Driver Q&A, pre-race festivities at the Driver Introduction stage will include introductions of special guests and VIPs, as well as the Honorary Starter and Grand Marshal of the Alabama 500, which is set for a 1 PM (CDT) start. The "Pit Pass Upgrade" is $75, but also includes more opportunities for up-close access on race day. The "Pit Pass Upgrade" allows fans to enjoy a crew member's perspective on race morning. Fans can stroll down Pit Road where the cars will be placed in position to start the race, and have the opportunity to see the crews set up each pit stall. It also allows access to The Red Carpet Entry into the Drivers Meeting. Fans will see drivers, crew chiefs, team owners, celebrities and NASCAR officials walk the red carpet into the meeting, where race procedures and protocol will be explained. The Pit Pass Upgrade will be in effect on Sunday, Oct. 25, from 8 a.m. until the conclusion of Driver Introductions. To purchase, simply visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(Talladega Superspeedway)(8-24-2015)
UPDATE Kyle Busch, Austin Dillon, David Gilliland and Sam Hornish Jr., will join Dale Earnhardt, Jr., Talladega Superspeedway's most recent winner, in a Pre-Race Fan Question & Answer Session at the start-finish line on Sunday, Oct. 25, prior to the start of the Alabama 500. Race fans will get to ask some of NASCAR'S most popular drivers questions in advance of the most anticipated race of the season, one in which Talladega is the anchor of the Contender Round where the field of 12 Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup drivers will be trimmed to eight at the checkered flag. Fans that purchase Talladega's "Pit Pass Upgrade" can have access to this special session, which is tentatively scheduled from 10-11:20 AM (CDT). Not only can fans get an up-close look at some of NASCAR's finest with the "Pit Pass Upgrade," but they can also take in all the festive activities at the pre-race stage, including Driver Introductions for the Alabama 500. In addition to the Driver Q&A, pre-race festivities at the Driver Introduction stage will include introductions of special guests and VIPs, as well as the Honorary Starter and Grand Marshal of the Alabama 500, which is set for a 1:30 p.m. (CDT) start. The "Pit Pass Upgrade" is $75, but also includes more opportunities for up-close access on race day. The "Pit Pass Upgrade" will be in effect on Sunday, Oct. 25, from 8 a.m. until the conclusion of Driver Introductions. To purchase, simply visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(9-11-2015)
Talladega Premium Box Seating Packages Available: Fans looking to take their Talladega Superspeedway adventure to new heights can do so with an incredible hospitality option - Exclusive Premium Box Seating - that includes pre-race pit access for the much-anticipated Alabama 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) race and the fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola NASCAR Camping World Truck Series (NCWTS) event upcoming Oct. 23-25. Whether it's for corporate entertainment or for extended family fun, the added-value options are a way for fans to treat themselves to southern hospitality at its best while enjoying what has become one of the most important weekends on the entire NASCAR schedule each year. The Alabama 500 is the third and final event in the Contender Round of the ultra-exciting Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup in which the field of eligible drivers for the championship title will be trimmed from 12 to eight at the checkered flag.
The exquisite open-air Premium Boxes - which will give guests spectacular views of the legendary three- and four-wide battles on the 33-degree banks of Talladega Superspeedway as drivers make their last-ditch effort to advance in the Chase - are privately fenced for small groups that want a big-time race day experience. Guests will also receive pre-race access to Saturday's Driver Introductions for the fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola event and Sunday morning Pit Road access before the Alabama 500, as well as a Sunday souvenir program for each Sunday guest to have as a keepsake for an incredible race weekend experience!
Along with great views comes great service. Each box features in-seat food and drink service and $30 worth of vouchers for each guest to use while they stay comfortable in 23" wide fold down stadium seats with drink holders. The box seating areas are located above the lower level grandstands in the Gadsden, Lincoln, Anniston, O.V. Hill North, O.V. Hill South and Birmingham sections and can accommodate groups of 12 and 24, with prices starting at $2,700 for the weekend.
For more information on purchasing Premium seating, contact 855-518-RACE (7223) or visit our website talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(9-9-2015)
Drivers to appear at youth autograph session at Talladega: Danica Patrick, Aric Almirola, AJ Allmendinger and Ryan Blaney are scheduled to appear for a Talladega Superspeedway special youth autograph session during the Alabama 500/fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola race weekend upcoming Oct. 23-25. On Saturday, Oct. 24 at 10:45am/ct in the track's Hospitality Village, located behind the Birmingham Tower outside the frontstretch, the first 100 kids (12-and-under) to arrive will have the chance to get an autograph from each driver (limit one per child and time permitting). Participants will be allowed to start lining up for the youth autograph session at 10:00am/ct. Talladega Superspeedway has great ticket offers for kids 12 & under for both Saturday and Sunday, which will showcase the final race of the Contender Round in the NASCAR Chase for the Sprint Cup in which the list of 12 eligible drivers to the title will be reduced to eight at the checkered flag. Those kids' deals include $50 off the regular price throughout the lower grandstands and towers while they can sit free in the fourth turn Gadsden grandstand while supplies last.(TSS)(8-29-2015)
The biggest meatball in racing on the menu again at Talladega: After its sellout debut in the spring, "The Big One" Meatball will once again be available to race fans who want to try one of the most unique concession items in all of racing during the upcoming Alabama 500/fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola race weekend at Talladega Superspeedway Oct. 23-25. "The Big One" Meatball, like Talladega Superspeedway, is the biggest and most unique of its kind, weighing in at over a pound. It has a center of blended Mozzarella and Pepper Jack Cheeses mixed with smoked BBQ Pulled Pork and a little house BBQ sauce for an extra kick. It is then covered by a layer of Ground Beef, rolled in a panko bread crumb and parmesan mix before being deep fried to a golden brown. And, there's more - it is then topped off with a dollop of BBQ sauce and a spaghetti garnish. It is the creation of Americrown, the leader in motorsports catering and concessions. The company's Executive Chef at Talladega, Leilani Contemprato, and Corporate Executive Chef Michael Pappas from Daytona were looking for something that caught the feel of Talladega, and they succeeded in, well, a big way.(Talladega Superspeedway)(8-28-2015)
Talladega Superspeedway offers an "Unrestricted" VIP package: Talladega Superspeedway once again offers an "Unrestricted" VIP package like no other in sports, one that will give fans incredible behind-the-scenes access throughout the upcoming Alabama 500/fred's 250 race weekend, Oct. 23-25. These very-limited quantity packages will provide fans up-close and personal accessibility to the garages, pits and other exclusive track activities leading up to the fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola NASCAR XFINITY Series event on Saturday, Oct. 24 and the Alabama 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event on Sunday, Oct. 25 - the final event of the Contender Round in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup where the field of 12 eligible drivers will be cut to eight at the checkered flag. The "Unrestricted" VIP package is available for only $475 (must be purchased in addition to a grandstand ticket) for fans 18 and over. It includes a parking pass for the weekend and other amenities.The unmatched access that the "Unrestricted" VIP package provides is available by calling the Talladega Superspeedway ticket office at 855.518.RACE.(Talladega Superspeedway)(8-24-2015)
Talladega plans no changes to fencing before fall race: Talladega Superspeedway track president Grant Lynch told USA TODAY Sports he doesn't foresee changes to the fencing or fan seating before NASCAR returns Oct. 24-25. The Sprint Cup race there will carry even more weight for some drivers than Sunday night's Coke Zero 400 at Daytona International Speedway, where Austin Dillon's car sailed into the catchfence during a multi-car crash triggered as the congested blob of cars going about 200 mph careened past the start/finish line during a green-white-checker finish. At Talladega, any driver in the Chase for the Sprint Cup playoff will be racing to advance to the round of eight. Four more competitors will be excused from the postseason field and a chance at the championship after the Talladega results are posted. Lynch said he believes the first row of fan seating is about 22 feet from the catchfence. Some seating rows were removed - forcing fans back - after the Kyle Larson wreck at Daytona in 2013 injured more than two dozen fans. Spectators used to be about 16-18 feet from the fencing, according to Lynch. "We were looking at it after the Nationwide wreck at Daytona. That's when we made some changes," Lynch said. Lynch also said they won't consider moving out more rows of seating before October. "I think we're back to the distance recommended."(USA Today)(7-8-2015)
Talladega Superspeedway offers "Two for $88" Dale Jr. Ticket Package: In honor of #88-Dale Earnhardt. Jr. capturing the last two Superspeedway races in the 2015 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, Talladega Superspeedway is bringing back the popular "Two for $88" ticket package, named for NASCAR's most popular driver and Talladega's latest winner, for the October 25, Alabama 500. Earnhardt, Jr., who went to Gatorade Victory Lane in the GEICO 500 at NASCAR's Most Competitive track - Talladega Superspeedway - in May, claimed his second dramatic victory of the year last night at Daytona International Speedway in the Coke Zero 400 Powered by Coca-Cola. The "Two for $88" Dale Jr. Talladega package gives fans a $32 savings off the regular price for two Lincoln Grandstand tickets to the Sunday, October 25, Alabama 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race -the final race of the Contender Round in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup where the field of 12 eligible drivers for the title will dwindle to eight. The "Two for $88" offer is for a limited time. For more information, visit talladegasuperspeedway.com/dalejr.
In addition to the "Two for $88" package, Talladega Superspeedway is offering up additional savings for the fall weekend, Oct. 23-25, which also includes the fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola for the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series (Saturday, Oct. 24)., Fans save $10 off all regular price tickets for the Alabama 500 for a limited time, and kids 12-and-under receive a $50 discount on all seats. Log on to www.talladegasupespeedway.com or call 877-Go2-DEGA for more information.(TSS)(7-7-2015)
NASCAR's reason for not throwing yellow flag on last lap at Talladega: On the final lap [of a race], NASCAR's stance is to 'let 'em play". When NASCAR Senior Vice President Steve O'Donnell joined SiriusXM NASCAR Radio he acknowledged that while Sunday's decision in the Geico 500 [at Talladega Superspeedway] was indeed "a judgment call," fans prefer to see races end under green flag conditions. "It's going to be a judgment call," O'Donnell said. "We've stated that we're going to make every effort to try and finish a race under green conditions - that's what the fans want to see. But we have to be obviously mindful of what's occurring on the track. It's a split-second decision. I think if you go back to Daytona, where we saw a driver hit the wall at what we thought to be fairly hard and wanted to dispatch our emergency crews quickly, we elected to throw the caution. If you look at yesterday, if you saw the circumstances that played out with Carl [Edwards], when we initially saw him get loose, he was down on the apron. As we made that quick decision, it was 'ok, he's clear we can go'. Just as we make that, his car slides up the track and that's something you don't want to see green or yellow flag conditions. But at the time, if we would have thrown the yellow, then it's already too late because he's already up and across the track. We elected to let it play out. We certainly didn't like to see how Carl come across the track but ultimately, we were able to come back under green flag conditions." O'Donnell plans to discuss Talladega with the drivers. He also realizes that some fans might feel that NASCAR was late to make a call due to who might or might not be leading a race at the time. However, he reiterated that the sanctioning body reacts no differently than an umpire calling balls and strikes in baseball.(Motorsport)(5-5-2015)
Dale Earnhardt Jr. wins at Talladega: #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr. won the GEICO 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Talladega Superspeedway for his 1st win of the season, 6th win at Talladega and his 24th career win. The win is the first Sprint Cup Series race win for #88 crew chief Greg Ives.
#48-Johnson finished 2nd [the 45th 2nd place finish of his career] followed by #27-Menard, #21-Blaney (best career finish), #78-Truex Jr., #31-Newman, #9-Hornish Jr., #4-Harvick, #11-Hamlin and #98-Wise (his career best finish).
Harvick maintains the points / Chase lead with 394, 40 points over #78-Truex Jr.
Pole winner #24-Gordon led 47 laps and ran up front most of the race until late in the race when he sped on pit road and had to start at the rear, then was caught up in #19-Edwards wreck at the end of the race.
There were 27 lead changes among 15 drivers. There were 6 cautions for 23 yellow flag laps.
The average speed was 159.487mph.
See unofficial race results, awards, money won, laps led, cautions and more on the Unofficial Race Results page (pdf) and check out the Penalty Report (pdf) and Lap Summary Report (pdf).
See OFFICIAL race results & points standings on the Official Race & Points Report (pdf).(5-3-2015)
Talladega Officials Encourage Fans Attending Races to Purchase Their Ticket Through TSS Avenues: With sunny "picture perfect" skies in the forecast for this weekend's GEICO 500 and Winn-Dixie 300 at Talladega Superspeedway, track officials are expecting incredibly large crowds to witness the preeminent events at NASCAR's Most Competitive track. To ensure that customers get tickets that are guaranteed to gain admittance, Talladega Superspeedway is encouraging fans to purchase their tickets by calling 1-877-Go2-DEGA, on the track website at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com, or by visiting ticket locations on the track grounds. With the demand for tickets to these premier races continuing to increase yearly, numerous sets of tickets have been lost and replaced as a customer service. Lost or stolen tickets will have invalid bar codes, and will not get the bearer entry to the facility.
In 2014, Talladega created a "kids program" designed to increase family affordability to witness in person the greatest racing on the planet by discounting those admissions by $50. The kids ticket is clearly identified as a "KID'S 12-AND-UNDER TICKET "on the front and is only good for children 12-and-under. Numerous sets of kid's tickets have been placed on the secondary market and misrepresented as Adult admissions, so please remember that kid's tickets only allow a child 12-and-under to enter the grandstands. Adult fans trying to enter the facility with a kid's ticket will only gain admittance once they purchase an adult ticket from the Talladega Superspeedway Ticket Office. For ticket information, call 1-877-Go2-DEGA or visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(5-1-2015)
Honorary Officials, National Anthem Performers Named for GEICO 500: Talladega Superspeedway announced the Honorary Officials for the GEICO 500 on Sunday, May 3, the 10th NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race of the 2015 schedule.
Senior Airman James A. Sottile, a Biomedical Equipment Technician, from Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, AL, will serve as the Grand Marshal by giving the most famous command in motorsports - "Drivers, Start Your Engines." Waving the green flag and serving as the Honorary Starter will be Technical Sergeant Jason D. Floyd, also of Maxwell Air Force Base, while the 313th United States Army Band will perform the National Anthem.
Sottile was assigned to the Medical Maintenance Shop, 42nd Medical Support Squadron, 42nd Medical Group at Maxwell AFB in February 2014. While at Maxwell AFB, he blazed through two sets of Career Development Courses and completed over 210 core tasks four months ahead of schedule. He achieved a phenomenal 94% on his first end of course exam and a near perfect 98% on his second exam. After just seven months on station he was selected as the 2014 42nd Air Base Wing's Airman of the third Quarter, and three months later he was selected for promotion to Senior Airman Below-the-Zone. In addition to being named one of Air Education and Training Command's 12 Outstanding Airman of the Year, his other awards and decorations include: National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Small Arms Marksman Medal, Air Force Training Honor Graduate Ribbon and the Air Force Training Ribbon.
Floyd is the Non Commissioned Officer in Charge of the Cadet Management Section for 145 Detachments at Headquarters Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (Maxwell Air Force Base). Floyd prepares cadets for entry into the United States Air Force and contributes to the commissioning of approximately 2,400 Second Lieutenants annually. Currently, Technical Sergeant Floyd is assigned to HQ AFROTC as the NCOIC of the Cadet Management Section where he provides guidance on five AFROTC programs (145 AFROTC detachments), 4 AFROTC region commanders and HQ personnel. His awards and decorations include: Joint Service Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster; Air Force Commendation Medal with two oak leaf clusters; Joint Service Achievement Medal; and Air Force Achievement Medal.
The 313th United States Army Band, formed in 1943, is comprised of 40 citizen-soldiers. They train and perform as Army musicians during monthly Battle Assembly weekends. Its mission is to provide music throughout the spectrum of military operations, to instill in our forces the will to fight and win, to foster support of our citizens, and to promote our national interests at home and abroad.
As previously announced, Ole Miss Head Football Coach Hugh Freeze will serve as the race's Honorary Pace Car Driver, and lead the field during warm-up laps prior to the start of the GEICO 500.
The invocation will be given by Allen Singley, volunteer for Alabama Raceway Ministries and Student Pastor at Grandview Baptist Church in Dothan, AL.
Talladega's weekend kicks off this Friday (May 1) with practice sessions for the GEICO 500 (NASCAR Sprint Cup Series) and Winn-Dixie 300 (NASCAR XFINITY Series), as well as practice, qualifying and green flag for the International Motorsports Hall of Fame 200 ARCA Racing Series Presented by Menards event, set to start at 5 pm (CST). The evening concludes with "The "Big One on the Blvd" Mardi Gras-style parade, which will feature NASCAR drivers and fan competitions on the track's infield Talladega Blvd.
Saturday's slate includes qualifying for the GEICO 500 and Winn-Dixie 300, followed by the start of the Winn-Dixie 300 at 2 p.m. (CST). The day concludes in the evening with the Talladega Superspeedway traditional Infield Concert featuring country music maverick and Columbia Nashville recording artist Chase Rice. Buddy Brown & Dee Jay Silver will get the party started prior to Rice taking the stage. The concert is free with the purchase of a Sunday GEICO 500 (12 noon CST start) admission ticket. For ticket information, call 1-877-Go2-DEGA or visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.
All seating along the fronstretch grandstands and towers are equipped with roomy and comfortable 21- and 22-inch wide chair back seats. Large High Definition Sprint Vision video boards that were implemented in 2014 will be back - three are permanent - and placed along the frontstretch to provide views of the whole track to every seat in the house. The video boards, three of which that are now permanent, are an initiative that is planned to be implemented at all International Speedway Corporation (ISC) tracks in the coming years.(TSS)(4-30-2015)
Sweet Home Alabama Has A Lot to Offer with Food, Destinations: Talladega Superspeedway is all about the fan experience, making sure that when families come onto the property, they get the best of everything - the greatest racing on the planet with limitless amenities to make their visit a fun and memorable one. The Alabama Tourism Department has come up with an easy way for travelers to do this and more while visiting the great state of Alabama.
When fans make their journey to the GEICO 500 and Winn-Dixie 300 this weekend during their trip to the state of Alabama, they will find that "Sweet Home Alabama" has lots more to offer in addition to NASCAR's Most Competitive Track, one of our country's top sporting venues. From delicious food delicacies to incredible road-trip destinations, Alabama has it all. Fans are encouraged to slow down, enjoy the trip, explore the cities and towns, experience the culinary side of the state and stay a little longer or come back sooner.
Alabama is rich in tradition, especially when it comes to our barbecue, so much in fact the Alabama Tourism Department has deemed 2015 as "The Year of Alabama BBQ." The tourism campaign focuses on Alabama's barbecue heritage, award-winning restaurants and talented pit masters. Highlights of the campaign include the launching of their website alabamabbq.com, a new smart phone app that alerts users when they are getting close to one of the state's top barbecue restaurants, a photo exhibit of legendary pit masters, a new documentary film about the state's barbecue culture and the announcement of the first inductees into the Alabama Barbecue Hall of Fame.
The website www.alabamabbq.com helps travelers discover some of the state's best places for ribs, pulled pork and chicken barbecue. The site features a barbecue themed road trip and has a calendar listing of top barbecue events across the state. Links can also be found on the website to the new smart phone app "Alabama BBQ Trail" which can be downloaded for free and has information on more than 75 barbecue restaurants in 52 cities across the state. The app has background information on each of the restaurants and their best dishes. It will also allow users to set an alert so their phone will notify them when they are within 20 miles or less of one of their chosen barbecue spots.
Rest assured, however, there are other impeccable mouth-watering dishes that Alabama has to offer, and one can find those easily with the "100 Dishes To Eat In Alabama Before You Die" smart phone app. Discover the food scene like a local, whether you're an Alabama native or a visitor to the Sweet Home State, plan dozen of road trips to any of Alabama's signature cities and get the authentic experience. The app allows users to browse by city, cuisine or restaurant and you can bookmark their selection of favorite dishes to track travels, as well as submit photos and reviews of the famous dishes. No matter what part of the state someone is in, there are opportunities to take in the diverse culinary adventure. Learn more by visiting: www.ilovealabamafood.com.
The official "Alabama Road Trips" smart phone app is an easy, interactive guide which makes it simple to plan an unforgettable road trip with friends and family to discover Alabama's countless destinations, from the sugar-white beaches and world class golf to some of the most historic civil rights landmarks. It helps users live like a local by giving search options for road trips catered to specific interests such as dining, shopping, history, arts, outdoor activities and much more. So, the message for fans attending this weekend's exciting events at Talladega Superspeedway is simple. Enjoy the races, and take in all of what Alabama has to offer. For additional travel information, visit www.alabama.travel. For ticket information, call 1-877-Go2-DEGA or visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(4-29-2015)
The Biggest Meatball in racing meets the Biggest Track in NASCAR: Talladega Superspeedway, known for its extraordinary one-of-a-kind racing, is now delivering a new menu item that is just as anticipated as the action on the track - "The Big One" Meatball. Fans coming to enjoy the GEICO 500 and Winn-Dixie 300 on May 1-3, will want to sink their teeth into this "softball-sized" meatball that's being sold at concession stands in the Gadsden and O.V. Hill South Grandstands along the frontstretch. "The Big One" Meatball has a center of blended Mozzarella and Pepper Jack Cheeses mixed with smoked BBQ Pulled Pork and a little house BBQ sauce for an extra kick. It is then covered by a layer of Ground Beef, rolled in a panko bread crumb and parmesan mix before being deep fried to a golden brown. It's topped off with a dollop of BBQ sauce and a spaghetti garnish. This mammoth meatball, like Talladega Superspeedway, is the biggest of its kind and weighs in at over 1 pound.(TSS)(4-26-2015)
Bowyer, Blaney & Hall of Famer Wallace join Talladega pre-race Q&A: A former NASCAR Sprint Cup Series winner at Talladega Superspeedway, a young, promising rookie driver for a legendary team, and a legendary Hall of Famer are scheduled to be a part of the track's Pre-Race Fan Question & Answer session at the Start/Finish Line on Sunday, May 3, prior to the start of the GEICO 500. Hear first-hand how Clint Bowyer, who has two triumphs at the 2.66-mile track, and Ryan Blaney, who pilots the iconic #21 for the famed Wood Brothers, plan to tackle the biggest and baddest race track on the planet. Plus, NASCAR Hall of Famer and International Motorsports Hall of Fame member, Rusty Wallace, will give his thoughts on who he thinks will win the GEICO 500. Fans who want to crank up their race day experience have the opportunity to be a part of the Fan Q&A session, which will be hosted by a Motor Racing Network (MRN) personality. The pre-race experience is available to all fans with the purchase of Talladega Superspeedway's "Pit Pass Upgrade." The "Pit Pass Upgrade," which can be purchased for $75, grants access to the special Q&A session, which is tentatively scheduled from 8:45-9:45am/ct. It also gives fans the unique ability to get up close and personal with NASCAR's warriors as they take in all the festivities at the Pre-Race stage, including Driver Introductions for the GEICO 500, which will include an array of special guests and VIPs, as well as the Honorary Starter and Grand Marshal for the event. The Pit Pass Upgrade goes into effect on Sunday from 8:00am until the conclusion of Driver Introductions.(TSS)(4-18-2015)
Chase Rice to perform at Talladega: Country music maverick and Columbia Nashville recording artist Chase Rice, who has NASCAR ties, will be the featured artist for Talladega Superspeedway's traditional Saturday Night Infield Concert, May 2, during an exciting weekend that will feature the Winn-Dixie 300 and GEICO 500. Rice will take the stage at NASCAR's "Party Capital" just hours after the conclusion of the Winn-Dixie 300 NASCAR XFINITY Series race, and the night before the GEICO 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event, in which the winning driver will all but be guaranteed a spot in the season-ending Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup. In what has become a Talladega tradition with top music acts, the Saturday Night Concert will feature Rice, whose edgy music will match perfectly with the rowdy infield crowd of the biggest and baddest racetrack on the planet. With hits like "Ready Set Roll" and his current single "Gonna Wanna Tonight" on the set list, Rice will have the intersection of Eastaboga and Talladega Boulevards rocking well into the night. The best part about the concert is that admission is FREE with the purchase of a Sunday race ticket for the GEICO 500. A former linebacker at the University of North Carolina, Rice has worn many different hats so far in life. In the sport of NASCAR, he served as a part of the Hendrick Motorsports team pit crew before moving to Nashville to pursue music full-time.(TSS)(4-13-2015)
New permanent high-def video boards at Talladega: The fan experience at Talladega Superspeedway just got bigger and better for the upcoming GEICO 500 and Winn-Dixie 300 weekend, May 1-3. Some of the Sprint Vision Digital High-Definition Video Screens that line the frontstretch, giving those in attendance a spectacular view, have increased in size while some will be permanent structures at NASCAR's Most Competitive track. The large video boards, which were introduced at Talladega a year ago as part of an International Speedway Corporation (ISC) initiative (multi-phase plans are to implement video boards at other ISC facilities over the next few years), will showcase pictures that will be bigger, brighter, crisper and clearer. In addition to the five screens on the frontstretch, a video screen will be placed along the Alabama Gang Superstretch. Two of the video boards will now be mammoth 40' x 80' in size and will have permanent homes behind pit road in the tri-oval area - one atop Gatorade Victory Lane and one in front of the Media Center. The other permanent structure will be a 26' x 52' video board which will be located at the exit of Turn Four near the Care Center. Other locations include the Start/Finish Line (26'x '52) and Turn One (18' x 33'), along with the Alabama Gang Supersptretch (20' x 27'). Both the 40' x 80' video screens have 5,120,000,00 LED Pixels (X7mm HD) and are 28,000 pounds each while the 26'x52' structures have 1,263,600,00 LED Pixels (X10mm HD) and are 16,000 pounds each.(TSS)(4-9-2015)
Ole Miss Football Coach Hugh Freeze to Serve as Honorary Pace Car Driver at Talladega: University of Mississippi Head Football Coach Hugh Freeze, who has adopted the name "Talladega" for the Rebels' fast-paced offensive plays, will serve as the Honorary "Pace Car Driver" for the GEICO 500 at Talladega Superspeedway on Sunday, May 3. Prior to the start of the GEICO 500 at Talladega Superspeedway, NASCAR's mammoth palace of speed, Freeze will lead the 43-driver starting grid around the track's 33-degree banked turns in the track's Official Ford Mustang Pace Car.
"I love watching the competition that goes on at Talladega," said Freeze, who led Ole Miss to a 9-4 overall record a year ago. "One of my favorite races to watch is obviously at Talladega Superspeedway. The term 'Talladega' is one we use around here a lot for our up-tempo offense. Our kids know it as our fastest pace, and I get excited every time Talladega has a race. I am so jacked (about driving the pace car)."
A huge NASCAR fan, Freeze has developed a good friendship with two NASCAR Sprint Cup drivers - Ricky Stenhouse, Jr. and Danica Patrick. Last year, Stenhouse, Jr., a native of Mississippi, made a Talladega Superspeedway appearance on the campus of Ole Miss to educate students about NASCAR's Most Competitive track. During his visit, Stenhouse, Jr., a life-long Ole Miss Rebels fan, worked out on the practice field with the Rebels' football players after receiving a personal guided tour of the sports facilities by Freeze.
In addition to piloting the pace car during his visit to Talladega, Freeze, who is entering his fourth season at Ole Miss (of the Southeastern Conference), will be a part of pre-race festivities on the Driver Introductions Stage at the start/finish line. Fans can witness pre-race activities with a Sunday "Pit Pass Upgrade" for $75 (in addition to an admission ticket), which allows access to pre-race festivities including: Driver Introductions, Driver Question/Answer Session, view of the Red Carpet Entry to the Drivers Meeting, and access to pit road prior to the start of the GEICO 500.
Only seven days remain where fans can get save $10 off pricing on single-day GEICO 500 tickets. The special offer ends on Friday, April 3. Log on to www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 877-Go2-DEGA for more information.(TSS)(3-31-2015)
"Unrestricted" VIP package avialable at Talladega: Talladega Superspeedway's new "Unrestricted" VIP package is like no other in sports, putting fans in the center of the action during the GEICO 500/Winn-Dixie 300 weekend (May 1-3) at the biggest and baddest race track on the planet. The behind-the-scenes package gives fans exclusive, up close and personal accessibility to exciting activities leading up to the Winn-Dixie 300 NASCAR XFINITY Series race on Saturday, May 2, and the GEICO 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event on Sunday, May 3. The "Unrestricted" VIP package includes: "Cold" Garage Pass that Allows Access to Area Behind Pit Road (when race cars are not on the track), Special Guided NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Garage Tour (Saturday or Sunday), Parking Passes. On Saturday: Hot Lap in Talladega Pace Car Around the 2.66-mile, 33-Degree Banked Track, Gatorade Victory Lane Photo Opportunity with Winn-Dixie 300 Winner's Trophy, Reserved Area at Driver Introduction Stage for Winn-Dixie 300, VIP Area access for Saturday Night Infield Concert. On Sunday: Reserved Area for NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Driver Question/Answer Session, Gatorade Victory Lane Photo Opportunity with GEICO 500 Winner's Trophy, Reserved Area at Driver Introduction Stage for GEICO 500, Guided Pit Road Tour Where Teams Ready the Pit Stalls, and Cars are Lined up for the Start, and Reserved Area at Red Carpet Entrance to Driver/Crew Chief Meeting. The unmatched access that the "Unrestricted" VIP package provides is available for only $475 (must be purchased in addition to grandstand ticket) by calling the Talladega Superspeedway Ticket Office at 855.518.RACE.(TSS)(3-22-2015)
Talladega adding SAFER barriers: Talladega Superspeedway will add an energy-absorbing barrier to three areas of its inside wall prior to its May 1-3 NASCAR race weekend. The high-banked track, configured much like Daytona International Speedway, will add SAFER barriers on its inside wall at the entrances to pit road, Turn 1 and Turn 3, track chairman Grant Lynch said Thursday in a statement. "We are committed to making Talladega Superspeedway a safe environment for drivers as well as our fans," he said. Kyle Busch broke his right leg and left foot when he crashed into a concrete inside wall near the entrance of Turn 1 in February at Daytona. He is out for months, with no timetable announced for his return. NASCAR mandated that the steel-and-foam energy reduction barriers be placed on the outside walls of all ovals 10 years ago. Tracks have added them in select other areas -- often in reaction to crashes. Busch's crash resulted in NASCAR announcing it would re-evaluate its tracks to determine if more SAFER barriers are needed.(ESPN.com)(3-20-2015)
ISC to review safety at all facilities: Statement from International Speedway Corporation (ISC) President John Saunders:
"Beginning with our two superspeedway motorsports entertainment facilities, Daytona International Speedway and Talladega Superspeedway, ISC is developing a significant plan for the installation of additional impact-absorbing technologies including but not limited to SAFER barriers (Steel and Foam Energy Reduction). We will utilize all available tools to ensure the safety of the drivers and our fans. It will remain our top priority. A thorough review of our other ISC facilities will continue with the focus to prioritize each track's most critical areas first. This includes but is not limited to our upcoming races at Phoenix International Raceway and Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, California. ISC is working very closely with NASCAR and industry experts to identify areas for additional safety protections. As we finalize our plans, we will communicate them to the drivers and necessary stakeholders ahead of our races at each ISC facility."(ISC)(2-24-2015)
Talladega adding SAFER barriers after Kyle Busch crash: Two days after Kyle Busch -- one of NASCAR's biggest stars -- broke his leg and foot in a head-on crash into a concrete wall at Daytona International Speedway, the president of the facility's sister track said more SAFER barriers will be installed before it hosts racing in May. "We'll look at our facility and reassess how we can make it better for the competitors as we've done with the catchfences and other things over the past 20 years," Talladega Superspeedway president Grant Lynch told USA TODAY Sports on Monday. "I think based upon what happened ... there will be a big focus on Talladega," Lynch said. At 2.66 miles, Talladega -- located about 55 miles east of Birmingham, Ala. -- is the biggest oval track in NASCAR and one of the fastest speedways in the world. Violent, multi-car crashes are practically staples of racing at the facility, which hosts two NASCAR weekends each year. Its 2015 dates are May 1-3 and Oct. 23-25. "I think we've put more (SAFER barriers) up than anybody, but that stands to reason because we're the biggest track with the most inside and outside walls," Lynch said. "We're certainly near the top percentage-wise for our company (International Speedway Corp., which owns 12 venues). Lynch said he didn't know what percentage of Talladega's walls is barrier-protected now. "As we've seen unusual wrecks happen, we've added more as we go," he said. "This is another opportunity to say, 'Let's ratchet it up again and take a good, hard look at the safety factors and see where we need it.' "(USA Today)(2-24-2015)
"Two for $88" Dale Jr. Ticket Package is back for Talladega: Talladega Superspeedway's "Two for $88" ticket package, named for NASCAR's most popular driver and a Talladega favorite - Dale Earnhardt, Jr. - is back for the May 3 GEICO 500. The "Two for $88" Dale Jr. Talladega package gives fans a $32 savings off the regular price for two Lincoln Grandstand tickets to the Sunday, May 3 GEICO 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race - where the winner is all but guaranteed a spot in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup. The offer is for a limited time. For more information, visit talladegasuperspeedway.com/dalejr.(TSS)(2-21-2015)
GEICO sponsoring spring Talladega race: The GEICO 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Talladega Superspeedway in Talladega, Alabama roars back into action May 1-3. The GEICO 500 will serve as the anchor event of an exciting spring weekend that will also feature the Winn-Dixie 300 NASCAR XFINITY Series race on Saturday, May 2, and the International Motorsports Hall of Fame 200 ARCA event on Friday, May 1. "GEICO is an incredible partner which continues to show their support of our facility with tremendous activation to promote both the GEICO 500 and Talladega Superspeedway. We can't wait for the first weekend in May!" said Talladega Superspeedway Chairman Grant Lynch. "We are excited to have a great partner like Talladega Superspeedway and the opportunity to sponsor a spectacular race like the GEICO 500," said Ted Ward, GEICO Vice President. "NASCAR is a great market for our customers and the GEICO 500 attracts over a hundred thousand passionate fans from all across the country who come to take in the action and excitement that the weekend brings." Last year's spring Cup classic at the 2.66-mile venue proved to be a pivotal event in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup as Denny Hamlin claimed the checkered flag and a spot in the title battle in which he finished third. This year's GEICO 500 will be the 10th event on the 2015 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series schedule.(Talladega Superspeedway)(2-5-2015)
Case of woman who went missing at Talladega ruled homicide: The death of a woman who vanished near the Talladega Superspeedway during October's race weekend has been ruled a homicide, authorities announced. Theresa Benn was reported missing just before 7:30pm on Oct. 19. Benn, who also went by Theresa Andrews, her maiden name, and Theresa Dulaney, her married name, was last seen the predawn hours of that Sunday on Speedway Industrial Drive in Lincoln. Authorities said Benn was with her husband prior to leaving him behind because she wanted to go to the races and he did not. Crowe said the woman's husband, Kevin Dulaney, told investigators he dropped her off on or near Eastaboga Road about 2:15am that Sunday. He said he last saw her walking toward the track. Investigators haven't determined whether she ever made it to the GEICO 500 later that day. She did not go to Saturday's race. Benn's body was found Nov. 22 in the Jackson Shoals area of Choccolocco Creek. The Lincoln Police Department today said they are still waiting on DNA test results, but are confident they will confirm the body to be that of Benn. In a press release, Lincoln Police Chief Darren Britton said the preliminary death report indicates the manner of death is homicide. Investigators have not said how Benn was killed.(Alabama Media Group)(12-24-2014)
Atlanta removing 17,000 seats, Charlotte 41,000 UPDATE: Atlanta Motor Speedway's parent company, Speedway Motorsports, Inc., announced Tuesday that they will remove 17,000 seats from the track's grandstands. The company anticipates using those areas for premium hospitality, advertising and other facility purposes. Their sister track, Charlotte Motor Speedway, is losing 41,000 seats.(wgxa.tv), see image of the CMS construction at Slugger Labbe's Twitter.(12-10-2014)
UPDATE: Alterations announced this week are in line with a trend of tracks removing seats. Charlotte, after removing 41,000 seats this winter, will be down to permanent seating of 89,000 in 2015, a startlingly low capacity considering its location in NASCAR's epicenter. But it's par for the course. Atlanta is removing 17,000 seats to get down to 75,000; Dover is removing 17,500 seats to get down to 95,500; and Daytona is removing its backstretch grandstands of 46,500 next spring to go to 101,500 seats. Other tracks on the circuit have made similar changes.
At its peak in 2007, International Speedway Corp.'s 12 major tracks had 1.1 million grandstand seats (not including suites). After the Daytona renovation, ISC will be down 30 percent to approximately 761,000 seats.
In 2013 alone, the following ISC tracks cut seats: Talladega (from 108,000 to 78,000), Richmond (91,000 to 71,000), Chicagoland (69,000 to 55,500), Michigan (84,000 to 71,000), California (81,000 to 68,000), Darlington (60,000 to 58,000) and Homestead (56,000 to 46,000). Any additional cuts likely will be revealed when its annual report comes out in January.
With the current Charlotte and Atlanta reductions, Speedway Motorsports has cut 101,000 seats (12 percent) across seven of its tracks since 2009, although it added 38,000 at Kentucky when it moved a Cup race to that track. SMI, which includes suites in its capacity estimates, cut capacity in 2013 at Atlanta (from 98,000 to 92,000), Bristol (158,000 to 153,000) and New Hampshire (96,000 to 95,000).
Dover listed 135,000 seats in 2009, so its reduction in recent years is 29 percent. At one point, it reduced 20,000 seats by replacing the current seats with wider ones for more fan comfort, a move done by many racetracks. Indianapolis and Pocono, privately owned, do not have to report their capacities, but Indianapolis also has removed seats.(see full article at the Sporting News)(12-11-2014)
Winn-Dixie to sponsor Xfinity Series race at Talladega: Winn-Dixie, a subsidiary of Jacksonville, Florida-based BI-LO Holdings, announced Saturday at Talladega Superspeedway it is entering into a new partnership with NASCAR's Most Competitive Track to sponsor the "Winn-Dixie 300" NASCAR XFINITY Series race on Saturday, May 2, 2015. With 68 Winn-Dixie stores spread throughout the state of Alabama, the company is proud to sponsor the Winn-Dixie 300 at NASCAR's biggest and baddest track, which opened in 1969. The goal is to make meaningful connections with customers throughout the state of Alabama and beyond by being a part of events they are passionate about. This isn't the first time that Winn-Dixie has had its name on races at the world's fastest speedway. From 1997 through 2001, Winn-Dixie was the entitlement sponsor for the ARCA Racing Series events, and in 2008, had its name on the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race at TSS.(Talladega Superspeedway)(10-22-2014)
Keselowski wins at Talladega: #2-Brad Keselowski won the GEICO 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Talladega Superspeedway for his 6th win of the season, 3rd at Talladega and his 16th career win.
#20-Kenseth finished 2nd followed by #15-Bowyer, #40-Cassill, #31-Newman, #33-Kvapil, #41-Busch, #9-Ambrose, #4-Harvick and #13-Mears.
The win allows Keselowski to advance to the 3rd round of the Chase.
Polesitter #55-Vickers finished 20th.
#32-Terry Labonte, driving what is expected to be the final race of his career, qualified 9th but had to fall to the back for the start of the race for unapproved adjustments. He was invovled a wreck just past halfway and finished 33rd.
The four drivers eliminated from the Chase after the race were #5-Kahne, #18-Busch, #48-Johnson, and #88-Earnhardt, Jr.
There were 38 lead changes among 19 drivers. There were 6 cautions for 25 yellow flag laps.
The average speed was 160.302mph.
See unofficial race results, awards, money won, laps led, cautions and more on the Unofficial Race Results page (pdf) and check out the Penalty Report (pdf) and Lap Summary Report (pdf).
See UNOFFICIAL drivers championship points standings on the Unofficial Drivers Points Standings (pdf).
See the UNOFFICIAL owner points standings on the Unofficial Owners Points Standings page (pdf).(10-19-2014)
Larger High-Definition Video Boards for fans at Talladega: Talladega Superspeedway will host the most anticipated race in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup at Sunday's GEICO 500. Fans in the grandstands will not only witness the spectacular action LIVE and in person' but will have the added luxury of seeing it with larger than life Sprint Vision Digital High-Definition Video Screens. The new screens are even bigger than what was showcased during the Aaron's 499 weekend this past May. In fact' there will be a new mammoth 40' x 80' video board which will tower above Gatorade Victory Lane' where many of the sport's top drivers hope they will be at the conclusion of 500 miles. Five video boards will line the frontstretch' offering fans in every grandstand seat an unbelievable view of the incredible content to be projected throughout the event weekend. The high-definition pictures will be even bigger' brighter' crisper and clearer. Talladega Superspeedway served as a test track for the new International Speedway Corporation (ISC) initiative in May. The multi-phase project plans are to implement the video boards at all ISC facilities over the next few years.(TSS)(10-16-2014)
Talladega announces race officials: Talladega Superspeedway announced the individuals who will give the command "Drivers Start Your Engines" and those who will waive the green flag to start the fred's 250 and GEICO 500. The performers for the rendition of the National Anthem were unveiled as well and will showcase a military theme.
GEICO 500
"Grand Marshal: Rhett Rayburn, Regional Vice President and Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter for GEICO Macon Southeast, will give the most famous command in motorsports - "Drivers, Start Your Engines."
"Honorary Starter: Sergeant First Class (SFC) James W. Knight, an Alabama native and member of the US Army since 2000, will be high above the start-finish line in the flag stand and will wave the green flag to start what promises to be one of the most exciting events in the history of Talladega Superspeedway.
fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola
"Grand Marshal: Teresa Gabor, Senior Vice President of Merchandising for fred's Super Dollar will deliver the message to drivers to start their engines.
"Honorary Starter: Keith Curtis, Senior Vice President of Merchandising at fred's Super Dollar, will serve as the Honorary Starter.
GEICO 500 National Anthem
"The 313th United States Army Band, formed in 1943, will perform the National Anthem prior to the GEICO 500. The unit, comprised of 40 citizen-soldiers, train and perform as Army musicians during monthly Battle Assembly weekends and do weeks of annual training. Its mission is to provide music throughout the spectrum of military operations, to instill in our forces the will to fight and win, to foster support of our citizens, and to promote our national interests at home and abroad.(TSS)(10-15-2015)
Senior Airman to award Freedom Trophy to Talladega winner: Talladega Superspeedway is known for history, tradition, prestige and honor that come with winning a Sprint Cup race at NASCAR's Most Competitive track. In May track officials announced a new tradition at Talladega: the presentation of the new and unique "Freedom Trophy" to each NASCAR Sprint Cup Series winner by a member of one of our countries five military branches.
Senior Airman Donald L. Googe Jr., from Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, AL, will greet the winner in Gatorade Victory Lane at the conclusion of the GEICO 500 - the all-important third and final race of the Contender Round of NASCAR's revamped Chase for the Sprint Cup in which the eligible drivers for the title will be cut from 12 to eight. There, Googe, Jr., will award the impressive pentagon-shaped Talladega Superspeedway Freedom Trophy, which represents the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard.
The Freedom Trophy is a spectacular work of art. Silver aluminum panels, complete with a design of each military branch soldier and branch logo, are showcased, along with a star that is waterjet cut in the center. Black stained wood makes up the trophy's base, with circular discs at the bottom and top made of black acrylic, and includes the Talladega Superspeedway logo, the date of the race and the name of the base awarding the trophy.
Googe, Jr., is a paralegal assigned to the 42nd Air Base Wing Legal Office where he is responsible for managing a comprehensive legal assistance program to 4,685 military and civilian personnel. He assists commanders in ensuring good order and discipline within 14 units assigned to Maxwell AFB and Gunter Annex, and provides legal opinions to over 50 on-base private organizations. In addition to recognizing the military through the Freedom Trophy, Talladega Superspeedway is proud to offer special ticket prices for all members of the military and their families for its race weekends. For more information, visit talladegasuperspeedway.com/military.(TSS)(10-4-2014)
NASCAR Revises National Series Qualifying Format At Talladega Superspeedway: NASCAR revised its national series qualifying format for Talladega Superspeedway which, in turn, should elevate the on-track competition for fans at the high speed 2.66-mile track. For the Oct. 17-19 events at Talladega featuring both the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, national series qualifying will take on a more rapid pace that should bring out the best in the competitors and provide fans with an extra element of excitement.
Keystone Light Pole Qualifying for the Fred's 250 powered by Coca-Cola NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 17 at 5:30pm/et and will air live on FOX Sports 1. Coors Light Pole Qualifying for the GEICO 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 18 at 4:30pm/et and will air live on ESPNEWS, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.
National series qualifying at Talladega will now consist of the following:
· Three rounds with the first round divided into two groups amongst the competitors. The first qualifying round is five minutes in length for each group.
· Competitors will be assigned to a first qualifying round group based on the random draw held earlier in the event.
· The 24 eligible competitors that post the fastest single lap speed from either of the first qualifying round groups will advance to the second round. The remaining competitors will be sorted based on their speed posted in the first round of qualifying in descending order.
· There will be a 10-minute break after the completion of the first qualifying round and the 24 remaining competitors that advance to the second round will have their times reset.
· The second qualifying round is five minutes in length and the 12 eligible competitors that post the fastest single lap speed will advance to the third and final round.
· The fastest remaining competitors will earn positions 13-24 based on their fastest single lap speed posted in qualifying in descending order.
· Following a five minute break, the 12 eligible competitors that advance to the final round will have their posted speeds reset.
· The final qualifying round is five minutes in length and the fastest single lap speed will determine positions 1-12 in descending order.
"This revision in national series qualifying at Talladega should be more exciting for our fans," said Robin Pemberton, NASCAR senior vice president of competition and racing development. "It will feature a more accelerated pace, provide greater opportunity for team strategy to come into play and it should more closely resemble actual racing conditions."(NASCAR)(9-4-2014)
Talladega Superspeedway 2015 Weekend Dates Unveiled: In 2015, the dates for Talladega Superspeedway's two race weekends will have a sense of familiarity with race fans - one in the spring to kick off the month of May and the other in late October to again feature the all-important sixth race in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup. NASCAR announced the 2015 schedules for its top three national touring series Tuesday - the NASCAR Sprint Cup, Nationwide and Camping World Truck - and Talladega Superspeedway's slate will resemble 2014. The tradition of the first weekend in May will continue May, 1-3, at NASCAR's Most Competitive ribbon of asphalt with a triple header consisting of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, the NASCAR Nationwide Series, as well as the ARCA Racing Series. On October 23-25, the Biggest and Baddest race track on the planet will play host two pivotal races in title chases for both the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and NASCAR Sprint Cup Series with the fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola and GEICO 500, respectively.
"2015 will be here before you know it, and we are happy to let our fans know that the best racing in all of motorsports here at Talladega will return at recognizable times," said Talladega Superspeedway Chairman Grant Lynch. "May is a beautiful time to be at Talladega. We had picture-perfect weather with sunny skies and impeccable temperatures earlier this year, and in late October, there is nothing like being here with the feel of autumn in the air. Add to that the fact that the GEICO 500 will be a paramount, decisive race in NASCAR's Chase for the Sprint Cup, it's going to be something else."
The 2015 GEICO 500, the sixth race in the Chase, will also be the third and final event in the Contender Round of the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, where the field of 12 eligible drivers vying for the championship, will be reduced to eight after the checkered flag. A win in the GEICO 500 will automatically advance the victor into the Eliminator Round. A triumph in the May classic at Talladega is just as important to get into the 16-driver Chase field. By virtue of his victory earlier this year at the 2.66-mile venue, Denny Hamlin secured his spot in the Chase.(TSS)(8-26-2014)
Last Chance for "Two for $88" Dale Jr. Ticket Package Offer at Talladega: If fans want to see a man on a mission during the GEICO 500 at Talladega Superspeedway - with an amazing savings package named in his honor - they won't have to look any further than five-time Talladega winner Dale Earnhardt, Jr. With the track's "Two for $88" Dale Jr. Ticket Package, for an incredible price, fans can witness 43 drivers battle it out on the biggest and baddest race track on the planet, and NASCAR's Most Competitive facility. The special offer gives fans a $32 savings off the regular price of two Lincoln Grandstand tickets to the Sunday, October 19 GEICO 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race - the pivotal sixth race of The Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup. The offer is for a limited time, ending on Friday, August 29. Talladega Superspeedway is also offering up other great savings all across the grandstands for the fall event weekend, October 17-19 that will also include the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola. Fans save $10 off all regular pricing from now until September 19, and kids 12 and under receive a $50 discount on all frontstretch seats. Log on to www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 877-Go2-DEGA for more information.(TSS)(8-25-2014)
"Ultimate Viewing Experience Ticket Package" at Talladega How do race fans get one of the best views in all of NASCAR, complete with a device that allows them to get immediate race updates from the palm of their hand, at an unbelievable price? The simple answer - Talladega Superspeedway's "Ultimate Viewing Experience Ticket Package." The package, which includes a 2-Day Tri-Oval Tower ticket (high atop the frontstretch grandstands) for both the Saturday, October 18, fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race and the Sunday, Oct. 19 GEICO 500 Sprint Cup Series event, is complete with a FanVision device for only $170.00, a $50 package savings. FanVision allows fans to get an up close and personal feel with world-class live video streaming - video and audio of live race broadcasts, instant replays, scanners to listen directly to driver-team communications, review real-time stats, in-car views with eight different cameras and access to other live-action features.(TSS)(8-13-2014)
Fan Track Drive at Talladega: Have you ever imagined seeing the view Dale Earnhardt Jr., Brad Keselowski, Kyle Busch and the other top stars in NASCAR have when driving around Talladega Superspeedway? Well, fans will have that special opportunity to tour the 2.66-mile venue - complete with 33-degrees of banking in the turns - in their own personal car during "Fan Track Drive," a fundraising event for the American Red Cross on Saturday, July 26. The "Fan Track Drive" event will run from 9 am until 2 pm and will allow guests to drive their passenger vehicle two laps around the Talladega Superspeedway for a $50 contribution. Each vehicle will closely follow one of Talladega Superspeedway's Emergency Services vehicles, which will lead the field at highway speed. Currently, there are no other fan "drive" events planned for the remainder of 2014 at Talladega. In addition to the "drive," guests can take a high-speed ride around NASCAR's Most Competitive Track in one of the speedway's official pace cars - the Ford Mustang or the Chevrolet Camaro - at a cost of $100. All money for rides will be directly donated to the American Red Cross Talladega-St Clair Chapter.TSS)(DATE)
First Responders at Talladega Superspeedway for Safety Stop: Safety equipment, in the form of two medic helicopters, a fire truck and two ambulances, converged at Talladega Superspeedway Wednesday, June 11th, on behalf of Air Methods as part of the Great American Safety Drive (GASD), a "Safety Stop" event put on for more than 50 area First Responders. The event was part of a 12-city cross-country tour that began in Santa Monica, CA on May 31, and will end Sunday in Hilton Head, SC. The tour is designed to demonstrate the industry's commitment to safety for medical crews and the patients they serve. In the track's media center local first responders were treated to a half day of safety education. The goal of the Great American Safety Drive is to raise $100,000 for Med Evac Foundation International (non-profit), earmarked specifically to support safety research, education and programs such as the Survivors Network and Vision Zero. In addition to the safety equipment, first responders are pictured behind a classic Chevrolet Corvette, with the Talladega GEICO 500 Ford Mustang and the Ford Thunderbird that led the cross-country tour riding the track's middle lane. NASCAR speeds back into Talladega Superspeedway October 17-19 for the GEICO 500 Sprint Cup Series race and fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola Camping World Truck Series event. Log on to www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 877-Go2-DEGA for ticket information.(TSS)(6-14-2014)
Talladega's Tribute - "The Alabama Gang Superstretch" Unveiled: Talladega Superspeedway announced that the back straightaway will forever be known as "The Alabama Gang Superstretch", paying tribute to the original members - racing legends Bobby and Donnie Allison, and Red Farmer, all of whom have played a significant role in the track's history and are today huge supporters of the 2.66-mile venue. For this weekend's Aaron's Dream Weekend at Talladega, The Alabama Gang Superstretch name will be displayed in huge, block lettering midway down the outside retaining wall of the backstretch, which measures over 4,000 feet. The monumental, new addition to the track will "stretch" more than 200 feet.
The trio will serve in "official" capacities during what will be a busy and exciting Saturday at the track. The Allisons will serve as the Grand Marshal's for the International Motorsports Hall of Fame 200 ARCA race, while Farmer will be the Honorary Starter from atop the flag stand. The ARCA race kicks off a full day of activity which also includes the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series all-new Coors Light "Knockout" group qualifying for the Aaron's 499, plus the Aaron's 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series event.
"No honor is too big for The Alabama Gang," says Talladega Superspeedway Chairman Grant Lynch. "What we are doing in naming The Alabama Gang Superstretch is unprecedented in our sport. During our events, from TV cameras and still photography, fans will be able to see this accolade for some of our favorite people in the world. The gang has meant so much to NASCAR, Talladega Superspeedway and the state of Alabama, and this is just a small token of our appreciation."
"This place is special," said Bobby of the speedway. "We (The Alabama Gang) have always felt like we were a part of it."
"When you won Talladega, there was something extra special about it," added Donnie. "It was a huge deal to us, our family and friends."
"We made each other the best we could be since we raced against each other in the early years," quipped Farmer of he and the Allisons. "We liked racing against each other, and Talladega was the ultimate place to race."
Hailing from Florida, Farmer and the Allison brothers saw opportunities in Alabama, so they settled in Hueytown, AL. In the early 1960s, they gained notoriety through success on short tracks in cities like Huntsville, Birmingham and Montgomery. Naturally, when William H.G. France built the biggest and fastest speedway in the country in nearby Talladega, the hometown boys were going to take to the track. And as a result, devoted local fans turned out. The legendary trio galvanized the local race fans in the 1960s and 70s, giving many a primary reason to devotedly attend races at Talladega-just to lend their cheers of support for their hometown heroes as they defended their turf. Their world eventually grew to include another Alabama racer Neil Bonnett, and years later, Bobby's sons Davey and Clifford.
Hearing loud cheers from the stands, The Alabama Gang didn't disappoint. While having success in NASCAR's top division with 10 career triumphs, Donnie collected two victories at Talladega. Bobby, the 1983 Sprint Cup Series Champion and winner of 84 career races, would visit Talladega's Victory Lane on four occasions. Bonnett, an 18-time Cup winner, was a one-time victor at Talladega. Farmer, a mainstay in the ARCA Series, claimed two wins at Talladega. Clifford posted a top-10 ARCA finish in 1992, and Davey ranks second only to Dale Earnhardt Sr. in total Talladega wins with eight. They include three NASCAR Sprint Cup (of his career total 19 Cup wins), four ARCA and one IROC triumph. Davey is one of only eight drivers to post their first career Sprint Cup win at Talladega.
The Alabama Gang is also represented atop The Alabama Gang Superstretch. From the exit of turn two to the entrance of turn three, fans now have additional RV options from which to view all races at Talladega Superspeedway. They include Allison Motorhome Ridge, Farmer Motorhome Overlook and Bonnett Corporate Motorhome Summit. For information on options, fans can call the Talladega Superspeedway ticket office at 1-877-Go2-Dega.
The Alabama Gang continues to live on today with a new generation of racers. The torch of the Allison legacy is passed from Donnie and Bobby to their grandsons Justin and Robbie. Justin Allison, with the help from his grandfather Donnie, has recently emerged on the racing scene in the ARCA Racing Series. Justin competed in the season-opening event at Daytona and was in the top-10 before being involved in an accident that broke out in front of him. He will compete in this weekend's International Motorsports Hall of Fame ARCA race at Talladega. Robbie Allison, grandson of Bobby and son of Davey, now lives in Mooresville, NC and is competing in Legends and Late Model cars, as well as Pro Champion Karts. Both Justin and Robbie have high aspirations.
Another Alabama native, Grant Enfinger from Fairhope, has dominated the ARCA Series thus far in 2014, becoming only the second driver in series history to capture the checkered flag in the first three races of the season.
Interestingly enough, since Talladega Superspeedway opened in 1969, there have been more than 50 drivers from the state of Alabama to compete at the most competitive facility in the world, and all can say they are a part of "The Alabama Gang."
Some of the Alabama drivers that tasted success in either ARCA or NASCAR include: Darrell Wallace Jr. (first African-American driver to win a race in one of NASCAR's premier divisions); Steve Grissom (1993 NASCAR Nationwide Series Champ and winner of 11 NNS races), Rick Crawford (5-time NASCAR Camping World Truck Series winner), Cale Gale (1-time NCWTS/1-time ARCA winner), Gary Bradberry (3-time ARCA winner), Mickey Gibbs (3-time ARCA winner), Billy Thomas (5-time ARCA winner) and Dave Mader III (1-time ARCA winner). Hut Stricklin, Donnie Allison's son-in-law, enjoyed success as well with a career best runner up finish in Darlington Raceway's 1996 Southern 500. Johnny Ray, who lives down the street from the track, competed in three ARCA races and one Cup race at Talladega, but is best known for giving Dale Earnhardt Sr. one of his early rides in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.
The track was also excited to have former crew chief Larry McReynolds, a Birmingham native, who helped Davey Allison to several wins, on hand at Wednesday's event. Bonnett's widow Susan Bonnett Northcutt and Liz Allison Hackett and Krista Allison, widow and daughter of Davey Allison, respectively, joined in on Wednesday's ceremonies, as well. The Gang is all here.....and lives on through the drivers of today and The Alabama Gang Superstretch at Talladega Superspeedway! For a variety of ticket packages for the Aaron's Dream Weekend, log onto talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(5-1-2014)
Enjoy Talladega Superspeedway from Crew Member Vantage Point: Want to see Talladega Superspeedway from a crew member's perspective with access to pit road and other pre-race activities? Fans now have the chance to do just that with the Pre-Race Pit Pass - for the Aaron's Dream Weekend, May 2-4, at NASCAR's Most Competitive track. For only $50 (admission ticket required) fans with the Pre-Race Pit Pass can stroll pit road on the morning of Sunday, May 4, before the running of the Aaron's 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event. Walking among the crews as they prepare for the battle ahead, Pre-Race Pit Pass holders will experience the sights and sounds as anticipation mounts for one of NASCAR's most spectacular events. As a part of race day prep, the Pre-Race Pit Pass allows access to the see the Sprint Cup Series drivers, crew chiefs, team owners, celebrities and NASCAR officials walk the Red Carpet to the mandated drivers meeting, where race procedures and protocol will be explained. The $50 Pre-Race Pit Pass goes in effect on Sunday from 8 am until 11 am for the Sprint Cup event. To purchase, simply log onto www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.
Additionally, fans can upgrade their experience for $25 more with the Pit Pass Upgrade. Get up close with NASCAR's gladiators and take in Driver Introductions at the start-finish line, and see some of the sports personalities conduct a question/answer session that morning from the stage. Now those are memories that will last a lifetime. After time spent on Pit Road it will feel great settling into Talladega's roomy and comfortable 21 and 22-inch wide chairback seats. And, new for the 2014 Aaron's Dream Weekend, is the addition of Sprint Vision video boards that are four times the size of previous ones, placed along the frontstretch to provide views of the whole track to every seat in the house.(TSS)(5-1-2014)
Randy Houser to Perform Saturday Night Infield Concert at Talladega: A big question from fans leading up to Talladega Superspeedway's Aaron's Dream Weekend (May 2-4) is, "Who is performing the Saturday Night Infield Concert?" NASCAR's Most Competitive track is happy to announce today that it is none other than country music star Randy Houser. In what has become a Talladega Superspeedway tradition with top music acts, the Saturday Night Concert on May 3 will feature Houser, whose powerhouse voice fits perfectly with Talladega Superspeedway, the biggest and baddest race track on the planet. Houser's songs like "Runnin' Out of Moonlight" and "Goodnight Kiss" will have the intersection of Eastaboga and Talladega Boulevard rocking the party well into the night on Saturday, May 3. The best part about the concert is that admission is FREE with the purchase of a Sunday race ticket (to the Aaron's 499). Saturday's activities kick off at 10 am with the ARCA Racing Series International Motorsports Hall of Fame 200, followed by "Knockout" group qualifying for the Aaron's 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup race, and the start of the Aaron's 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series event. The day will end in the evening, but the party will just be getting started with Houser on stage. Tickets for the May races are available at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or by calling 877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(4-29-2014)
Talladega names pre-race officials: Two prominent individuals making a positive impact in the state of Alabama will serve in honorary capacities during Talladega Superspeedway's Aaron's Dream Weekend. Alabama Governor Robert Bentley will be the Grand Marshal for this Sunday's Aaron's 499 Sprint Cup Series race and will give the most famous command in all of motorsports - "Drivers, Start Your Engines." Auburn University Head Football Coach Gus Malzahn will serve as the race's "Honorary Pace Car Driver," leading the field of NASCAR's best drivers during the pre-race pace laps. Since he was elected in 2010 as the 53rd Governor of the State of Alabama, Governor Bentley, who will give the drivers' command from the start/finish line, has been committed to creating jobs for the people of Alabama. In January of 2001, the unemployment rate was 9.3% but had dropped to 6.3% in July of 2013. Malzahn will be driving Talladega Superspeedway's official Ford Fusion pace car for the Aaron's 499 around the 33-degree banked turns of the track's 2.66-mile layout. He received national acclaim for overseeing one of the biggest turnarounds in college football history last year. Inheriting a team that didn't win a game in the Southeastern Conference in 2012, Malzahn led the Tigers to the SEC title and a trip to the BCS Championship Game.(TSS)(4-28-2014)
T-28 Trojan Aircraft to perform flyover at Talladega: Talladega Superspeedway will be celebrating the United States Military in a big way on May 4 for the Aaron's 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. At the end of the race, the previously-announced "Freedom Trophy" will be awarded to the race's winner by the members of the military. But before the green flag waves, fans in the stands will receive a historic symbol of patriotism high above the track in the beautiful blue sky. Two combat veteran T-28 Trojan aircraft, accompanied by a C-45-Expeditor from the Hixson Museum of Flight, Chattanooga's Aviation Museum (TN), will soar above Talladega Superspeedway near the conclusion of the National Anthem to the roar of thousands of fans at NASCAR's Most Competitive Track.(TSS)(4-26-2014)
Tim Dugger to perform during Aaron's Dream Weekend at Talladega: Everyone knows NASCAR and country music go hand-in-hand, and no one personifies this combination more than singer-songwriter Tim Dugger, who will be performing as part of the free Saturday Night Infield Concert at Talladega Superspeedway during the Aaron's Dream Weekend. The singer behind NASCAR anthem "You Know Who We Are" will be rocking the infamous Talladega infield on May 3, opening for country star Randy Houser. The Saturday Night Concert has become a tradition at Talladega Superspeedway with top music acts playing on a stage next to the rowdy and infamous Talladega Blvd. Fans with tickets to Sunday's Aaron's 499 receive free access to the concert. Headlining clubs along the NASCAR circuit for years, Dugger has amassed a loyal following of race fans, drivers, and crew chiefs. Songs of his like "Sunday Drive" and "You Know Who We Are" speak directly to the sport of NASCAR and the energy and excitement found on the track and in the stands each week. Houser will be hitting the stage after Dugger and giving race fans a taste of his powerhouse vocals, playing hit songs "Runnin' Out of Moonlight" and "Goodnight Kiss."(TSS)(4-24-2014)
FOX moves Talladega qualifying to FOX: NASCAR ramped up its pre-race excitement level for the 2014 season, making qualifying more relevant and much more entertaining by introducing a highly competitive "knockout" system, beginning with 43-plus race cars on the track at the same time at tracks 1.25 miles or longer. NASCAR on FOX, which covers the first 13 NASCAR Sprint Cups Series of the season, is showing its enthusiasm for the new system, moving the (Saturday) May 3 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series qualifying at unpredictable Talladega Superspeedway from FOX Sports 2 to FOX, marking the first time a non-Daytona qualifying session has aired on FOX. "This move is a direct result of the double-digit ratings gains NASCAR's new knockout qualifying format is delivering every weekend," said Bill Wanger, EVP of Programming, Research & Content Strategy. "We are thrilled to be able to highlight this new format on FOX, and what more exciting place to do that than Talladega Superspeedway." The new qualifying system, which moves away from single-car qualifying and is supported by double-digit, year-to-year ratings growth, allows for all cars to qualify collectively for up to 25 minutes, with the top 24 based on fastest laps advancing for a subsequent 10-minute session. The top 12 from that group advance to the final, five-minute round. The 90-minute Talladega qualifying session begins on FOX on Saturday, May 3 at 1:30 pm/et(FOX).
NOTE so far FoxSports has aired qualifying time delayed, 5-10 minutes behind live. Results will be posted LIVE on Jayski.com, and Jayski's Twitter & Facebook...so spoiler alert....(4-16-2014)
Graphic rendering of Freedom Trophy to be presented to the winner of the Aaron's 499 at Talladega Superspeedway on May 4.
New Freedom Trophy Awarded to Talladega Sprint Cup Series Winner: Winning a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Talladega Superspeedway - NASCAR's Most Competitive track - brings with it history, tradition, prestige and honor. Now, it has taken on a new meaning that has a special place in everyone's heart. In support of the United States Military, Talladega Superspeedway is thrilled to announce the "Freedom Trophy," which will be awarded to every winner of a Sprint Cup Series race at the 2.66-mile grand venue, beginning with the May 4 Aaron's 499. The special trophy showcases all five branches of the United States military - Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard. Military personnel will be on hand at each Talladega Sprint Cup Series race to make the presentation of the Freedom Trophy in Victory Lane. Not only will they be in the winner's circle to award the coveted trophy, but they will also participate in pre-race ceremonies as well. Each Talladega Superspeedway race weekend, a different United States military base will be given the opportunity to present the Freedom Trophy.
The creation of Talladega Superspeedway Vice President Brian Crichton, the Freedom Trophy is an honor to all military men and women on behalf of the speedway, a patriotic entity since 1969. Crichton enlisted the assistance of Fast Forward Marketing Owner Mike Barth (Spring, TX), who has custom designed trophies in motorsports since 1996. MTM Recognition in Oklahoma City, OK spearheaded the design.
"Winning a Sprint Cup Series race at Talladega just got extra special," said Talladega Chairman Grant Lynch. "With the Freedom Trophy, we pay tribute to our race winners, as well as our servicemen and women who make so many things possible for us on a daily basis." The Freedom Trophy is five-sided, reflective of each branch of the military. Silver aluminum panels, complete with a design of each military branch soldier and branch logo, are showcased, along with a star that is waterjet cut in the center. The base is black stained wood with circular discs at the bottom and top made of black acrylic, and includes the Talladega Superspeedway logo, the date of the race and the name of the base awarding the trophy.
"As a symbol of our military we thought it was fitting to start with a pentagon shaped base'" said Crichton. "The artists did a great job by bringing together all five branches of the military, incorporating the star in the center and showcasing each branch seal on the individual pillars. It is a trophy we hope every Talladega Sprint Cup winner will be proud of - that it will mean a little something extra when they display it with the rest of their trophies." In addition to recognizing the military through the Freedom Trophy, Talladega Superspeedway is proud to offer special ticket prices for all members of the military and their families for its race weekends. For more information, visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com/military.(TSS)(4-15-2014)
Fan Enhancements ready for launch at Talladega: Watching 43 cars pack race three- and four-wide at 200 mph around NASCAR's biggest and most competitive race track - Talladega Superspeedway - has always been a "Must See" event. But now, thanks to a valuable video enhancement initiative launched by International Speedway Corporation (ISC) for 2014, it's going to be much easier to take in the view of views in NASCAR, beginning with the Aaron's Dream Weekend set for May 2-4.
Talladega Superspeedway will serve as a test track for the new ISC program, which will strategically place four large Sprint Vision Digital High-Definition video screens along Talladega's frontstretch. The new video boards will offer all fans in every grandstand unbelievable views of the incredible content to be projected throughout the event weekend. The screens will almost double the size of former Sprint Vision screens, and the high-definition picture will be crisper, clearer and brighter.
With Talladega leading the way, the multi-phase project plans to implement the video boards at all ISC facilities over the next few years. Initially the screens will be temporarily put into place, allowing facilities to listen to fan feedback to create the best digital experience possible. Eventually, permanent digital board locations will be installed as part of the ongoing phase of the initiative.
The view will be extra special for kids 12 and under, who will get in free to all grandstands for Saturday's full day of activity. On Sunday kids receive $50 off the regular price of grandstand seating. In addition to the new video boards and kids "free" opportunity, other fan-friendly changes at Talladega Superspeedway in 2014 include:
· SMOKE FREE throughout the grandstands; designated smoking areas will be set up under the grandstands and towers.
· Driver Introductions Pit Pass Upgrade; the $50 Pre-Race Pit Pass can now be upgraded to include access to driver introductions for an additional $25.
· Reserved Saturday Grandstands; all grandstand seating will be reserved on Saturday instead of General Admission to allow fans to find their perfect spot ahead of time.
NASCAR returns to Talladega Superspeedway in 2014 with the Aaron's Dream Weekend, which is set for May 2-4. The NASCAR Nationwide Series will take to the track on Saturday, May 3 while NASCAR's Sprint Cup Series machines take the green flag on Sunday, May 4. For ticket information, log onto www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(3-5-2014)
Talladega Superspeedway Tickets On Sale: Advanced Price tickets are on sale to the May 2-4 Aaron's Dream Weekend at NASCAR's Most Competitive Track-Talladega Superspeedway. The Advanced Price tickets, which are available from February 24 to April 3, save fans money at nearly every ticket option, and for this highly anticipated race weekend the savings don't stop there-for the first time ever kids have opportunities for "free" seating in the track's exhilarating frontstretch grandstands. Saturday kids' tickets - for 12 and under - are free in every section of the grandstands and in multiple locations on Sunday. The remaining locations are reduced a minimum of $50 for Sunday kids' tickets. This unbelievable ticket offer has never been made at this historic NASCAR venue and is available even beyond the Advanced Price Ticket period. Advanced Price tickets offer fans $10 off regular pricing for the weekend's headliner, the Aaron's 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on May 4, and $5 off Saturday's quadruple header that includes two races (ARCA's International Motorsports Hall of Fame 200, Aaron's 312 Nationwide race), Sprint Cup's new pack racing qualifying format and the traditional Saturday Night Infield Concert (must have a Sunday ticket for admission). Two-day tickets for both Saturday and Sunday start at $50.
Fan enhancements have been ramped up in 2014, starting with NASCAR's pre-season announcements about qualifying and the Chase. Qualifying for the Aaron's 312 and Aaron's 499 will now consist of three elimination rounds where drivers take to Talladega's high banks in groups, competing just like it's a race. The changes made to the Chase place practically any race winner into the Championship, and given the Aaron's 499's unpredictable nature, it's going to be a battle like never before. Talladega Superspeedway has also put into place some serious fan enhancements that include the free kids' ticket initiative, new large Sprint Vision screens, smoke-free grandstands and the Driver Introductions Pit Pass Upgrade. Info on all of this and more can found at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(3-4-2014)
GEICO's Gecko Talladega Superspeedway, new title sponsor: Officials from GEICO and Talladega Superspeedway announced that the fall NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, Oct. 19, at NASCAR's Most Competitive track will be known as the GEICO 500. The GEICO 500 weekend will be held October 17-19 and will also feature the fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race. As part of the agreement, GEICO will be named the Official Auto, RV, Motorcycle and Powersport Insurance Provider of Talladega Superspeedway.
The GEICO Gecko, which travels the country spreading good news about GEICO, was recently at Talladega Superspeedway with track Chairman Grant Lynch showing excitement and anticipation for the GEICO 500 at NASCAR's Most Competitive Track on Sunday, October 19. Officials from GEICO and Talladega announced the new race entitlement partnership last week. As part of the agreement, GEICO was also named the Official Auto, RV, Motorcycle and Powersport Insurance Provider of Talladega Superspeedway.. NASCAR's Talladega Superspeedway offers both reserved and unreserved campgrounds throughout the property, 13 of which have been sponsored by GEICO since 2011. "We are thrilled with our expanded partnership with GEICO, a Fortune 500 company with a sterling reputation and a perfect fit with our passionate fan base," said Lynch. "While GEICO has been our partner for years with their sponsorship of various campgrounds around the facility, having the entitlement of our October Sprint Cup Series race will allow the company to extend its reach to all Talladega and NASCAR fans. The wild card race at Talladega (sixth race in NASCAR's Chase for the Sprint Cup Series Championship) has long been a tradition in the sport and we couldn't be happier that it's now the GEICO 500."
NASCAR first returns to Talladega Superspeedway in 2014 with the Aaron's Dream Weekend on May 2-4. The NASCAR Nationwide Series Aaron's 312 will take to the track on Saturday, May 3 while NASCAR's Sprint Cup Series machines take the green flag on Sunday, May 4, in the Aaron's 499. For ticket information, log onto www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(2-7-2014)
2014 Talladega Superspeedway Fan Advisory Network Team: Talladega Superspeedway has selected 20 race fans to serve as members of the 2014 Talladega Superspeedway Fan Advisory Network (TSS FAN). The TSS FAN will continue to focus on creating constructive dialogue with the Talladega Superspeedway administration team, helping to make a better racing experience for all fans. "We are excited to welcome the 2014 Talladega Superspeedway FAN members," said track Chairman Grant Lynch. "Our goal is to use this team of dedicated race fans to help guide us in making improvements to our facility that will benefit all fans who attend our event weekends. Their input is indispensible, and we look forward to working with the new team this year." The new TSS FAN members, from 10 different states, will serve a one-year term which includes the Aaron's Dream Weekend May 2-4, and the Talladega 500 weekend October 17-19.
2014 TSS Fan Members
· Linda Mitchell - Gahanna, OH
· Chace Oliver - Piedmont, AL
· Jon Mickley - Haughton, LA
· Melissa Harris - Haleyville, AL
· David Ivey - Piedmont, AL
· Dean Adelmund - Jackson, MO
· Andrea Harrell - Pine Bluff, AR
· Michael Randick - Birch Run, MI
· Ron Frazier - Montgomery, AL
· Juana Corbin - Ashville, AL
· Christina Humphries - Anniston, AL
· John Lovvorn Jr. - Albertville, AL
· Brad Sims - Delta, AL
· Norman Barnes - Wynne, AR
· Leslie Stoddard - Irondale, AL
· Rebecca Combs - Senoia, GA
· Sherrie Perry - New Market, AL
· Diane Lund - Charlotte, NC
· Leigh Carroll - Murfreesboro, TN
· Don Adelmund - Milwaukee, WI
NASCAR returns to Talladega Superspeedway in 2014 with the Aaron's Dream Weekend, which is set for May 2-4. The NASCAR Nationwide Series will take to the track on Saturday, May 3 while NASCAR's Sprint Cup Series machines take the green flag on Sunday, May 4. For ticket information, log onto www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(1-8-2014)
Talladega cutting seating capacity: Talladega Superspeedway, which once boasted some of the largest crowds to see NASCAR races, will see its seating capacity reduced to approximately 80,000 seats by next season, tracks officials confirmed on Wednesday. The largest change will come from the recent demolition of the Allison Grandstands, a large swath of seats located on the backstretch of the 2.66-mile speedway which had a seating capacity this season of 18,000. In recent seasons, many of the track's frontstretch seats have been tarped over while the speedway still sold tickets - usually at lower price - for the backstretch. "The changes are simply a reflection of our current attendance trends," track spokesman Russell Branham told The Observer. "The goal will be a better fan experience and that will be entirely on the frontstretch from now on." As recently as 2007, track attendance estimates had more than 307,000 fans attending Talladega's two Sprint Cup Series race weekends. At the time, the track's listed capacity was 147,000 grandstand seats. This season, the track's listed capacity was listed at 109,000.(Charlotte Observer)(11-28-2013)
Talladega Superspeedway Fan Advisory Network Taking Applications for 2014: Beginning Friday, November 1 through Friday, December 6, Talladega Superspeedway's Fan Advisory Network, also known as TSS FAN, will be taking applications from fans who would like to join the esteemed committee to share their observations and make suggestions on how the track can continue to improve the Talladega Superspeedway event experience. TSS FAN was started in 2010 and has been an invaluable resource ever since for the TSS administration to communicate directly with the most important part of Talladega--the loyal fans. The goal is to identify, discuss and make proactive recommendations that will benefit fans who attend Talladega Superspeedway events.
The topics for discussion will not be limited to traditional facility improvements, but will encompass a fan's total interaction with Talladega Superspeedway, starting with the purchase encounter all the way through attendance of an event, including all of the service interaction with the fan in between. The suggestions made by the TSS FAN are used to help the track staff stay up-to-date with what a typical race fan expects from their experience while at NASCAR's Most Competitive Track.
All applications must be downloaded, completed, and mailed to Talladega Superspeedway in order to be considered. Applications can be found at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com/tssfan. FAN committee members will begin their duties in January 2014. Members will be asked to meet during each event weekend and participate in two teleconferences during the year. The committee will consist of 20 members and is collected from a demographic and geographic cross-section of fans. Members in office will serve the two NASCAR race weekends (May & October) at Talladega in 2014 before new members will be chosen for 2015.(TSS)(11-1-2013)
ISC to install video screens, improve wireless at tracks: International Speedway Corporation unveiled its plan to provide race fans with the sport's first fully-integrated multi-media race-day experience across all its motorsports facilities over the next few years. In addition to the thrilling live on-track racing action, fans will be able to enjoy rich multi-media content directly on their Sprint smartphones and other handheld devices, and on new high-definition video screens located throughout the racetrack. They will also enjoy enhanced connectivity to instantly share their raceday experience with friends inside and outside the track via Twitter, Facebook, and other social media platforms. These enhancements, which began in 2013 and will continue in 2014 and 2015, focus on several key areas:
-- Digital High-Definition Video Screens: Beginning with Talladega Superspeedway in 2014, new large high-definition video boards will be installed across all ISC tracks. These video boards will be located throughout each facility to ensure all fans in attendance have a clear view of the screens to enjoy all the great content that it will deliver.
-- Unique At-Track Content: ISC has deployed a fully-integrated multi-media content strategy to deliver up-to-the-second live in-race and in-car cameras views, instant race data and other interactive race-day content to enhance the live on-track action and provide fans with a raceday experience unlike any other in the industry.
-- Enhanced Connectivity: Wi-Fi service will be provided in premium camping and fan areas, as well as in high-traffic areas. These services were already installed at Michigan International Speedway and Auto Club Speedway of Southern California in 2013, and will be rolled out to other venues in the ISC family in 2014 and 2015. In addition, ISC is working with American Tower Corporation to provide improved cellular coverage to include 4G connectivity for fans during race weekends.(ISC)(10-30-2013)
AND have heard that Talladega is moving any fans who had renewals in the Allison Grandstand on the backstretch in 2014 and move them to the front stretch grandstands. The Allison Grandstand will be torn down. No word if other grandstands will be renamed.(11-1-2013)
Fan dies in Talladega campground: Carbon-monoxide poisoning is being blamed as the cause of death of a Tennessee man at Talladega Superspeedway on Saturday morning. The Talladega County Sheriff's Department said Craig Franklin Morgan, 46, of Murfreesboro, Tenn., died at the campground. Morgan and his wife, Jami Allison Morgan, 38, were discovered unresponsive by friends who went into their RV at the South Campground outside the track. Jami Morgan was unconscious and was airlifted to UAB Hospital, where she remained in critical condition and unconscious Monday morning. Police said the carbon monoxide apparently leaked from the exhaust system of the family's RV.(Fox Sports)(10-21-2013)
Hanging in back is acceptable at Talladega: According to a post by ESPN's Marty Smith:
How will NASCAR will govern the 100% rule today at Talladega?
[Marty] spoke to NASCAR VP/Competition Robin Pemberton, who said laying back is part of the strategy at plate races and IS ACCEPTABLE competitive practice. Pemberton also noted that that information was made adamantly clear at Chicago when the 100% Rule was first broached. In short, teams ARE PERMITTED to hang back at Talladega today.(10-20-2013)
Talladega National Anthem singers announced: Birmingham, AL native and National Recording Artist Taylor Hicks, winner of Season 5 of American Idol, will perform the National Anthem prior to Sunday's Camping World RV Sales 500, the sixth race of the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Championship. Hicks, known for his incredible soulful vocal style, has been a hot commodity ever since winning Season 5 of the popular FOX singing competition, scoring a No. 1 hit single with "Do I Make You Proud." In addition, he has put out a platinum-selling self-titled album, and has moved out west to perform a long term residency at Paris Las Vegas.
Performing Saturday's National Anthem for the fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola Camping World Truck Series event will be FAHRENHEIT, a vocal group from Huntsville made up of Alabama's finest firefighters. The group was started in 2008 by Danny Loggins, the chief of the Huntsville Fire - Rescue service, and since that time, FAHRENHEIT has performed at numerous events and functions. The goal of the group is to be an encouragement to those who hear them and provide fire safety education and awareness. The members of the group include Captain Danny McNeal (lead), driver Steve Alverson (baritone), investigator Rusty Gipson (bass), and retired driver Don Cox (tenor).(TSS)(10-18-2013)
Talladega, Daytona get official moonshine: Daytona International Speedway and Talladega Superspeedway announced a new partnership with Ole Smoky Moonshine that will make the Tennessee distillery the "Official Moonshine" of both racing facilities. This new agreement, which begins with the upcoming Camping World RV Sales 500 NASCAR weekend at Talladega Superspeedway on Oct. 18-20, marks the first partnership in the "Official Moonshine" category for both tracks and parent company International Speedway Corporation. Race fans will be able to purchase four different featured Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine cocktails at Talladega. There will be ten concession bars around the concourses, including the Ole Smoky Moonshine Holler, Talladega Bar in the Tri-Oval Tower and the Ole Smoky Bar at the intersection of Talladega and Eastaboga Blvd. in the track's infamous infield. Ole Smoky Tennessee is the first legal distillery in the state of Tennessee.(TSS)(10-16-2013)
Country Artist Pat Green To Perform Saturday Night Infield Concert at Talladega: Talladega Superspeedway announced that Grammy-nominated country music singer-songwriter Pat Green will perform the track's popular Saturday Night Infield concert during the Camping World RV Sales 500 weekend, October 18-20. The concert is a traditional event for 'Dega Nation and held just off the infamous Talladega Blvd. the night (Oct. 19) before NASCAR's Wild Card race in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Chase for the Championship - the Camping World RV Sales 500. Access to Green's Saturday Night Concert is easy: It's open to all Camping World RV Sales 500 ticket holders! The stage for the show is set up at the intersection of Talladega and Eastaboga Boulevards, where dedicated partygoers have set up some of the most flamboyant and outrageous campsites for their and everyone's entertainment.
AND Talladega Superspeedway's Saturday Night Infield Concert just received a second dose of country star power: In addition to Grammy-nominated Texas country artist Pat Green, country-rock up-and-comer Chelsea Bain will perform an opening slot during the Camping World RV Sales 500 weekend, October 18-20.
The most competitive racing in NASCAR combined with a mix of southern hospitality returns to Talladega Superspeedway October 18-20, 2013 for the Camping World RV Sales 500 Weekend, which also features the fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race. For tickets and information visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(10-15-2013)
Hixson Museum of Flight to Provide Historic Aircraft for Flyover at Talladega: Talladega Superspeedway holds on to a proud tradition of patriotism that extends throughout the sport of NASCAR and its fans, and nothing embodies that tradition more than the flyover that precedes race action during an event weekend. Prior to the green flag for the Camping World RV Sales 500 on Sunday October 20, three historic aircraft from the Hixson Museum of Flight will soar above NASCAR's Most Competitive Track while the crowd stands in honor of our country and our troops.
The aircraft being utilized for the flyover are two T-28 Trojans (Alpha and Bravo) that served in Vietnam and a C45-H Expiditor that saw service in Korea and Japan. All three aircraft tell a story. One such story from the T-28A Trojan includes being sold by the US Navy to Honduras for only one dollar in 1969 and shortly thereafter downing an El Salvadorian P-51 during the 100-Hour War between Honduras and El Salvador. The three aircraft can now be seen up close at the Hixson Museum of Flight located in the suburban community of Hixson, TN.
Lt. Col. Peyton "XMan" Dehart and Pete "Wheeler" O'Hare who have both served in combat tours from Desert Storm to Operation Enduring Freedom to Operation Iraqi Freedom, will pilot the two T-28 Trojan aircraft, used by the United States Air Force and United States Navy beginning in the 1950s. The C45-H Expiditor will be manned by Gary "Mo" Franks. The flyover will occur at the conclusion of the singing of our National Anthem during the Pre-Race Ceremonies. Moments later, fans will be treated to another one of Talladega's famous traditions of presenting the American flag on the back of a semi-truck barreling around the track.
The Hixson Museum of Flight is a non-profit organization that relies solely on donations for support. The Museum is dedicated to raising awareness of aviation and the important role it has played in shaping our nation's history. Since the museums inception on June 1, 2010, it has restored to flight 4 historically significant aircraft while raising $18,000.00 for the local children's hospital. The museum has plans to work on 3 other aircraft that have significantly impacted the history of the United States.
The most competitive racing in NASCAR combined with a mix of southern hospitality returns to Talladega Superspeedway October 18-20, 2013 for the Camping World RV Sales 500 Weekend. For tickets and information visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(10-14-2013)
Hamlin joining Earnhardt Jr at Talladega Experience: Fans who attend the Talladega Experience during the Camping World RV Sales 500 will be given a double dose of NASCAR star-power, as Denny Hamlin joins Dale Earnhardt Jr. on the celebrity appearance lineup at NASCAR's finest hospitality venue race morning. The driver of the #11 FedEx Toyota will be on hand for a question and answer session that all fans are invited to be a part of. Located just outside Talladega's historical frontstretch where countless races have been won and lost at the 2.66-mile facility, the Talladega Experience is just one of the many Camping World RV Sales 500 ticket upgrades available to Talladega Superspeedway ticket holders. It is designed for the FAN, with the ultimate goal of providing each guest with a world-class experience and memories that will last a lifetime. Other celebrities scheduled to appear in the Talladega Experience will be announced in the near future. In addition to the up-close, personal access to both question and answer sessions with Hamlin and Earnhardt, Jr., guests of the Talladega Experience will be treated to unlimited delicious catering and beverages, pre-race pit road tours inside the track, access to the start-finish line during driver introductions, VIP parking, event souvenirs, and more. The Talladega Experience is just one of the many ticket upgrades available to Talladega Superspeedway ticket holders. The package, which must be accompanied by a Frontstretch Grandstand or Tower ticket, is $145 and can be purchased by calling 877-Go2-DEGA or visiting www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(9-20-2013)
Early Bird Camping World RV Sales 500 Tickets On Sale: The saying "the early bird gets the worm" rings especially true for getting tickets early to Talladega Superspeedway's October classic Camping World RV Sales 500 weekend, featuring the sixth race in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Championship. Now through September 22, fans will receive $10 off the regular price of any Frontstretch Grandstand or Frontstretch Tower ticket to the Sunday, October 20, Camping World RV Sales 500. Additionally, fans will get $5 off for any Frontstretch Grandstand or Frontstretch Tower seat for the Saturday, October 19, fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola. A two-day Tower ticket package to both the Camping World RV Sales 500 and the fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola will be $10 off each package as well. In addition to the great news on ticket opportunities, fans will be excited to learn that five-time Talladega Superspeedway winner Dale Earnhardt Jr. is scheduled to make an appearance in the Talladega Experience - NASCAR's finest hospitality venue - during the Camping World RV Sales 500 Weekend. The Talladega Experience is just one of the many ticket upgrades available to Talladega Superspeedway ticket holders. It is designed for the FAN, with the ultimate goal of providing each guest with a world-class experience and memories to last a lifetime. The package, which must be accompanied by a Frontstretch Grandstand or Tower ticket, is $145 and can be purchased by calling 877-Go2-DEGA or visiting www.talladegasuperspeedway.com. Other ticket upgrades available include Pre-Race Pit Passes, Fan Suites, the Paddock Club, and the Acceleration Package.(TSS)(8-1-2013)
Body of missing race fan found: Talladega County Sheriff Jimmy Kilgore said in a statement that "no foul play" is suspected at this time in the death of Georgia man Nicholas "Nick" Bower, whose body was found today after a search of more than a week. Bower disappeared May 4 after being seen the night before the race at Talladega Superspeedway. Kilgore said Bower's body was found shortly before noon in a creek at the Jackson Shoals area downstream from an old dam. The area is a short distance east from the bridge on Jackson Trace Road. Bower's body was discovered by searchers flying a helicopter over the area along the creek. Talladega County deputies and other law enforcement began an extensive search of the area around the track beginning last week, using boats and aircraft. Kilgore said Bower's body was found in tall grass in the middle of the creek. The body was sent to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences for an autopsy. "Verification of the cause of death is pending," the statement read.(Alabama Live)(5-15-2013)
Man reported missing after race at Talladega: The search is on for an Indiana man who went missing after the NASCAR race in Talladega this past weekend. Nicholas Bower, 27, grew up in Plainfield, IN but recently moved to Georgia for a job. Bower was last seen Saturday night sitting at a campsite with friends in the South Park area of the Talladega Superspeedway. He's described as a white male about 6 feet 4 inches tall and 185 pounds. Bower was last seen wearing a black hooded sweatshirt with "Fastenal" displayed on the front and a black "Fastenal" hat with a mesh back. Anyone with information about Bower's whereabouts is asked to call the Talladega County sheriff at 256-362-6117.(WBIW)(5-8-2013)
Two T-28 Trojan Aircraft to Perform Flyover at Talladega: Talladega Superspeedway fans are known for being patriotic, but this Sunday they will have more reason to feel proud to be an American a historic flyover takes them back to the earlier days of the speedway. Two combat veteran T-28 Trojan aircraft from the Museum of Flight, Chattanooga's Aviation Museum (TN) will soar above Talladega Superspeedway near the conclusion of the National Anthem to the road of thousands of fans, minutes before the start of the Aaron's 499 Sprint Cup Series Race at NASCAR's Most Competitive Track.
Lt. Col. Peyton "XMan" Dehart and Pete "Wheeler" O'Hare who both served in Vietnam, will pilot the aircraft, used by the United States Air Force and United States Navy beginning in the 1950s. The T-28 was successfully employed as a Counter-insurgency (COIN) aircraft, primarily during the Vietnam War. They were produced from 1950-58 and was retired in 1994.
The flyover will occur at the end of the Star-Spangled Banner, which will be performed by recording artist Robin Meade, also host of HLN's "Morning Express with Robin Meade." Moments later, fans will be treated to Talladega's famous tradition of presenting an American flag on the back of a semi-truck as it barrels around the track. Sunday is guaranteed to become part of Talladega's patriotic lore. Both aircraft can now be seen close up at the Museum of Flight, Chattanooga Aviation Museum, located in the suburban community of Hixson, TN. The most competitive racing in NASCAR combined with a mix of southern hospitality returns to Talladega Superspeedway May 3-5 for the Aaron's Dream Weekend. Experience the excitement as the superstars of NASCAR attempt to tackle the high-banks of 'DEGA at 200 mph. Secure your tickets at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or by calling 877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(5-3-2013)
Aaron's partners to help end hunger in Alabama: Aaron's, Inc. is partnering with the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama to host a can drive at one of the largest sporting events of the year - Aaron's Dream Weekend at Talladega Superspeedway, May 3-5. More than 200,000 NASCAR fans attending Aaron's Dream Weekend at NASCAR's Most Competitive Track will have an opportunity to help the hungry in Alabama by bringing canned food items to the Aaron's Corporate Display at the speedway, located just outside of the frontstretch grandstands. Throughout the weekend, Aaron's associates and can-drive volunteers will be collecting non-perishable food items such as canned meat, dry cereal, canned fruits and vegetables, paper towels, toilet paper and hygiene products. For more information on Aaron's Dream Weekend Can Drive, visit aarons.com/candrive.(TSS)(5-3-2013)
Alabama Crimson Tide Championship QB McCarron named Honorary Talladega Pace Car Driver: Talladega Superspeedway is proud to announce that the University of Alabama's quarterback AJ McCarron, who helped guide the Crimson Tide to back-to-back BCS National Championship titles, will serve as the "Honorary Pace Car Driver" for the Aaron's 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Talladega Superspeedway on Sunday, May 5. McCarron, who grew up just a few hours from Talladega Superspeedway in Mobile, AL, will get behind the wheel of a special Ford Mustang GT, the official pace car of Talladega's Aaron's 499 spring spectacular, and will lead the field of 43 cars around the track's incredible 33-degree banking before the start of the race. ""I have enjoyed races at Talladega before and have always had a passion to get up to speed on the track," said the two-time National Champion quarterback. "This is an incredible opportunity, and to be able to do it in front of the most famous drivers in the world, is something I am really looking forward to." This past Saturday, prior to the start of the annual A-Day spring game in Tuscaloosa, McCarron and his teammates were treated to the unveiling of a special Alabama National Championship paint scheme of Michael Waltrip's #55 Aaron's Toyota, which will compete in the Aaron's 499. "AJ has had such amazing success at Alabama, and that is known all over the country," said Talladega Superspeedway Chairman Grant Lynch. "We know the drivers and fans are going to be excited to have him here for the Aaron's 499. I'm sure as soon as the crowd sees him in our Ford Mustang GT Pace Car, there's going to be a lot of noise made." McCarron is beloved in the state of Alabama for leading the Crimson Tide to two consecutive BCS National titles. Alabama defeated LSU 21-0 in January of 2012 and repeated with a 42-14 victory over Notre Dame this past January. McCarron has the distinction of being the only quarterback to pull off such a feat (back-to-back titles) since the start of the BCS in 1998. In fact, since the 1950's, only three other QB's have won two straight. The most competitive racing in NASCAR combined with a mix of southern hospitality returns to Talladega Superspeedway May 3-5 for the Aaron's Dream Weekend. Experience the excitement as the superstars of NASCAR attempt to tackle the high-banks of 'DEGA at 200 mph. Secure your tickets at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or by calling 877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(4-30-2013)
In wake of Boston bombings, NASCAR asks teams to be more vigilant: In the aftermath of the Boston Marathon bombings, NASCAR teams have been warned by the sanctioning body to be on the lookout for errant backpacks and other packages in the garage area. NASCAR called a special, crew chiefs-only meeting Saturday morning at Richmond International Raceway, asking race teams to increase their level of vigilance this weekend at Talladega Superspeedway and beyond. The warning is not believed to be the result of any specific threat against NASCAR or Talladega Superspeedway, but part of a broader focus on safety at major sporting events across the country. "They asked us to keep our eyes open," said one NASCAR crewman, on the condition of anonymity. "They want us to monitor our garage stalls more closely, to make sure there is nothing there that doesn't belong. I didn't get the impression that there was any specific threat," he said. "It was just a request to stay vigilant."(Godfather Motorsports)(4-30-2013)
Chipper Jones to serve as Grand Marshal at Talladega: Former Major League Baseball icon Chipper Jones, believed by many to be a future "first-ballot" Hall of Famer, will serve as the Grand Marshal for the Aaron's 499 at Talladega Superspeedway on Sunday, May 5. Jones, who played for the Atlanta Braves throughout his entire 19-year career and was a fan-favorite across the country, will give the most famous command in all of motorsports to the 43-car field: "Drivers Start Your Engines!" Jones spent the last two decades establishing himself as one of the greatest switch-hitters in baseball history, second only to switch-hitters Mickey Mantle and Eddie Murray in homeruns (468). The eight-time all-star, who retired following the 2012 season, was named the 1999 National League MVP, and helped the Braves win the World Series title that year. Chipper Jones joins other pre-race dignitaries AJ McCarron (University of Alabama quarterback) and Robin Meade (Country Music Recording Artist & CNN News Anchor), who will serve as the Honorary Pace Car Driver and National Anthem singer, respectively, prior to the Aaron's 499.(TSS)(4-30-2013)
Chris Young and Robin Meade to sing National Anthems at Talladega Two well-known national personalities - country music superstar Chris Young and noted news journalist and recording artist Robin Meade - have been selected to sing the National Anthems during Aaron's Dream Weekend at Talladega Superspeedway. Young will give his rendition of "The Star Spangled Banner" prior to the Saturday, May 4, Aaron's 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series race. Meade will provide the fans with her version on Sunday, May 5, moments before the start of the Aaron's 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. In addition, Young will deliver Talladega fans an added bonus with a free Saturday night Infield Concert, held near the historic Talladega Boulevard.(TSS)(4-27-2013)
Talladega, Daytona to reinforce crossover gates: Two NASCAR tracks will reinforce their crossover gates with extra cables following the February Nationwide Series crash at Daytona International Speedway that injured at least 28 fans. Talladega Superspeedway, which hosts a pair of NASCAR races next weekend, has implemented the changes to all of their gates after an engineering firm hired by Daytona made the recommendations after reviewing data from the Feb. 23 crash. Kyle Larson's car made contact with a gate opening on the last lap, sending an engine, tire and debris flying into the stands and injuring several fans. Daytona track president Joie Chitwood III said the additional cables will be added for redundancy in the system. The track will also put tethers between the gate frame and the posts. That work will be completed in time for the July 5-6 races there. Chitwood said the removal of the gates was not considered, nor was it an option to move seats back further from the fence area. Steve O'Donnell, NASCAR's senior vice president of operations, said Larson's car is still being evaluated and there will be no immediate changes made in regard to safety. In addition, O'Donnell said no changes are expected with the restrictor plate at Talladega next week - including a smaller plate that would slow the cars down.(USA Today)(4-25-2013)
Patrick to tour Talladega Boulevard, judge campsites: The world famous Talladega Boulevard, a strip of land in Talladega's infield known as NASCAR's "Party Capital" for providing fans with the most fun in all of motorsports, just got even better! When the Aaron's Dream Weekend rolls into Talladega Superspeedway, NASCAR driver Danica Patrick will walk the Boulevard, mingle with fans, and award a one-of-a-kind "Coke Zero Tailgate Champion" trophy to the best decorated campsite. Plans are for Danica to award the "Coke Zero Tailgate Champion" trophy Saturday afternoon, at some point following the conclusion of the Aaron's 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series race. The most notorious strip of real estate in NASCAR, Talladega Boulevard, is an innovative corridor like no other and has been a mainstay in NASCAR circles since the track was built in 1969. The Mardi Gras-type atmosphere of The Boulevard, complete with strings of beads and shenanigans, is a NASCAR tradition that separates Talladega from other venues. It truly is a sight to behold how tents, RVs, trucks and trailers, with an abundance of ingenuity and creativity, can liven up a large crowd of people.(TSS)(4-25-2013)
Talladega Fans can access tickets using smartphones: It just got even easier for fans to purchase tickets to NASCAR's most exciting and unpredictable venue - Talladega Superspeedway. It's now literally at a consumer's fingertips. To directly gain access to Aaron's Dream Weekend, May 3-5 - which is less than two weeks away - fans can now use their smartphones. The new mobile-friendly fan experience, created by Moovweb, gives users quick and easy access to purchase event tickets as well as other opportunities such as the Talladega Experience - NASCAR's ultimate hospitality venue - and much more. Simply log onto talladegasuperspeedway.com on the mobile device and select the "Buy Tickets" link.(TSS)(4-23-2013)
Talladega Superspeedway Jeff Gordon Day - Thursday only: There is nothing more exciting than attending a NASCAR race at the sport's Most Competitive Track - Talladega Superspeedway. Now, fans have even more reason to purchase tickets to the Aaron's 499 in May - to help the most promising pediatric cancer research and programs that will improve patients' quality of life as part of the Jeff Gordon Children's Foundation. This Thursday, April 11 - One Day Only - for every frontstretch grandstand ticket sold to the Aaron's 499, $24 will be donated to the Jeff Gordon Children's Foundation. Talladega Superspeedway's "Jeff Gordon Day" - Thursday, April 11 - has arrived. Beginning Thursday, April 11, from 9 am until 5 p.m. EDT, fans can secure tickets at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or by calling 877-Go2-DEGA. A $24 donation will be made to the Jeff Gordon Children's Foundation for tickets purchased in the following grandstands: Gadsden; Lincoln; Anniston and Anniston Tower; O.V. Hill North and South; O.V. Hill Tower, Tri-Oval and Tower Extension; Birmingham and Birmingham Tower; Moss-Thornton and Moss-Thornton Tower; and Talladega and Talladega Tower. The $24 donation is for the Sunday, May 5, 2013, Aaron's 499 event only.(TSS)(4-11-2013)
Burton and Labonte to appear at Talladega Experience: The list of appearances for the famous Talladega Experience continues to grow, and this week's additions continue to be the biggest - and most respected - names in NASCAR. Bobby Labonte, who will be making history with his 700th career NASCAR Sprint Cup Series start, along with Jeff Burton, known as the "Mayor of the NASCAR Garage," are scheduled to appear in the Talladega Experience on Sunday, May 5, the morning of the Aaron's 499. They will join an already star-studded lineup which consists of Brad Keselowski and Dale Earnhardt Jr. The Talladega Experience offers fan hospitality unrivaled by any other sporting event. In addition to driver appearances, guests of the Talladega Experience are treated to unlimited catering and beverages, up-close and personal access to driver question and answer sessions, pre-race pit road tours, track access during driver introductions, VIP parking, event souvenirs, and more. The Talladega Experience is designed for the FAN, with the ultimate goal of providing each guest with a world-class experience and memories to last a lifetime. The package, which must be accompanied by a Frontstretch Grandstand or Tower ticket, is $145.(TSS)(4-10-2013)
Dale Jr. to Appear in the Talladega Experience: #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr., the only driver in the history of Talladega Superspeedway to capture four consecutive NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race victories at the 2.66-mile venue, will join defending Series Champion Brad Keselowski in the driver lineup for the Talladega Experience during the upcoming Aaron's Dream Weekend, May 3-5. This year's crop of drivers is shaping up to be one of the best in years, and even more of NASCAR's finest will be announced to join Dale Jr. and Keselowski in the Talladega Experience in the coming weeks. The Talladega Experience is a fun, one-of-a-kind fan hospitality event unrivaled by any other in the sporting world. The Talladega Experience is designed for the FAN, with the ultimate goal of providing each guest with a world-class experience and memories to last a lifetime. The package, which must be accompanied by a Frontstretch Grandstand or Tower ticket, is $145. Secure your tickets at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or by calling 877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(3-26-2013)
"Two for $88" Dale Jr. Ticket Package at Talladega:Entering the 2013 edition of the Aaron's 499 at Talladega Superspeedway, Dale Earnhardt, Jr., driver of the #88 Hendrick Motorsports Chevy, has "two" career NASCAR Sprint Cup Series victories in the May classic. As a result of his success at the 2.66-mile facility, and in recognition of him being in position "two" in the title chase after "two" races in 2013, Talladega is offering a special Dale Jr. "Two for $88" ticket package for the upcoming Aaron's 499 set for Sunday, May 5. The "Two for $88" Dale Jr. opportunity includes two Anniston Grandstand tickets located in between turn four and the frontstretch Tri-Oval for the Aaron's 499, and presents a savings of over $50 off race time pricing. The offer is good though Monday, March 18, while seats last.(TSS)(3-7-2013)
Two-Car draft at Talladega "pathetic": Many NASCAR fans didn't like the two-car tandem draft that dominated restrictor-plate racing, especially at Talladega Superspeedway, in 2010 and 2011. They were joined by some of the top executives of the sport, including one who recently railed against the style of racing and blamed it for the sluggish ticket sales at Talladega Superspeedway. International Speedway Corp. President John Saunders, whose company owns 12 tracks, including Talladega and Daytona International Speedway, minced no words when talking about the racing during a conference call last week with financial analysts. "The tandem racing, two or three events of that kind of stuff ... was quite frankly pathetic," Saunders said. "It's not what Talladega has been known for." Bad weather, including tornado warnings, that occurred during Talladega's spring weekends in 2010 and 2011 and high unemployment also hurt attendance, Saunders said. But he also said drivers' negative comments about the racing at Talladega encouraged fans to stay home. The Talladega stands were far from full last year, and NASCAR estimated the Talladega crowd last October at 88,000 - an estimate that includes those camping in the infield. In fan surveys after its fall 2011 race, 75 percent said they didn't like the two-car draft, Lynch said. While NASCAR implemented rules designed to limit it in 2012 - rules that kept drivers from using the two-car draft up until the race's final laps - the damage appears have been done.(Sporting News)(2-4-2013)
ISC reports dip in profits: International Speedway Corp. saw a year-over-year decline in both its 2012 fourth-quarter and full-year earnings and revenues, but the narrowing of the revenue decline for its core business operations to less than 1 percent has company officials encouraged. "We experienced leading signs of revenue stabilization this year," stated Lesa France Kennedy, ISC's chief executive officer, in both a news release and Thursday morning conference call with stock analysts. ISC, which operates Daytona International Speedway and a dozen other tracks around that country that host NASCAR races and other motorsports events, generated a net profit of roughly $54.6 million for its fiscal year, which ended Nov. 30, down from $69.4 million in fiscal 2011, and a fourth-quarter net profit of about $24.7 million, down from $26.5 million the same period the previous year. Its revenues totaled $612.3 million in 2012, down from $629.7 million in 2011, and in the fourth quarter it generated $189.4 million in sales, down from $191.9 million the same period the previous year. Kennedy said ISC had year-over-year increases in both revenues from broadcast fees, corporate sponsorships and food, beverage and merchandise sales at races, but "we continue to experience modest headwinds with admissions, not to the degree experienced in 2011, but enough to know we still have further inroads to make with our consumer."(full article at the Daytona Beach News-Journal)(1-25-2013)
2012 News
Track Presidents make wager for BCS National Championship Game: It just so happens that this year's BCS National Championship game has important ties to two of NASCAR's finest tracks. When The Fighting Irish of Notre Dame take on Alabama's Crimson Tide on January 7th, Chicagoland's President Scott Paddock and Talladega Superspeedway's Chairman Grant Lynch will be playing close attention. A bet has been placed on the game and the stakes are high: the loser buys lunch for the entire staff of the winning track and has to pose for a video in the winning team's colors. Scott Paddock, who played basketball for Notre Dame, has placed his bet on his Alma Mater, while Grant Lynch will be betting on Alabama-his team's biggest rival. If the Tide is to win the BCS Championship, Scott Paddock will have to purchase Chicago-style deep dish pizza for the Talladega Superspeedway staff. And if the Fighting Irish pull off a victory, Grant Lynch owes the staff of Chicagoland Speedway Alabama's famous Dreamland Barbecue. The loser will also be forced to film himself wearing the opponent's team gear, and the video will be shown on the Sprint Vision screens at the winner's next race.(Talladega PR)(12-19-2012)
John Fadool from Americrown Joins Talladega Superspeedway Staff: Talladega Superspeedway announced the addition of Americrown Service Corporation's John Fadool to their full-time staff. As Food, Beverage and Merchandise Manager, Fadool will work at the track year round to optimize the experience fans have while making purchases at concession stands and merchandise vendors. Bringing in a member of the Americrown team to Talladega is part of an on-going plan for the speedway to focus on delivering the finest guest experience in motorsports. Americrown, which is owned by International Speedway Corporation, has been providing food, beverage and merchandise at Talladega Superspeedway and other ISC-owned racetracks since 1989. Having an Americrown employee on staff at Talladega will ensure that all fans' needs regarding concessions and merchandise will be addressed and improved upon in a way that's specific to the track.(TSS)(12-13-2012)
Last Chance to Submit Applications for Talladega's Fan Advisory Network: Talladega Superspeedway is currently accepting applications for Fan Advisory Network (FAN) members, but time is running out. The deadline for submissions is Monday, December 3rd. Members will be asked to meet during each event weekend and participate in two teleconferences during the year. The idea is to allow race fans to share thoughts and ideas with the track, while the committee can serve as a focus group for the track when considering facility upgrades and more. FAN committee members will begin their duties in January 2013. All applications must be downloaded, completed, and mailed to Talladega Superspeedway in order to be considered. More info at talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(11-28-2012)
Talladega accepting applications for Fan Advisory Network: The Talladega Superspeedway Fan Advisory Network was established in 2010 to gain insight on race fan interactions with the track, from the ticket buying process all the way through to the exit procedures after a race. Race fans that would like to participate in the Fan Advisory Network are encouraged to download an application at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com/tssfan. FAN committee members will begin their duties in January 2013. Members will be asked to meet during each event weekend and participate in two teleconferences during the year. The idea is to allow race fans to share thoughts and ideas with the track, while the committee can serve as a focus group for the track when considering facility upgrades and more. All applications must be downloaded, completed, and mailed to Talladega Superspeedway in order to be considered. Applications must be received no later than December 3, 2012.(TSS)(10-24-2012)
Talladega Superspeedway Fan Fest and Hauler Parade Set for Thursday: Talladega Superspeedway will host a special fan fest and hauler parade at the Bass Pro Shops in Leeds, AL., Thursday Oct. 4 from 3:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. In addition to getting close to the giant rigs that transport the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series cars across the country, fans will also have the chance to bid on a ride to Talladega Superspeedway in one of the haulers while benefiting the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Jamie McMurray's NASCAR Sprint Cup Series hauler will be open from 3:30 to 5:30 for fans to take a sneak peek at the gear a team transports week after week. After the haulers leave for Talladega Superspeedway, the fun doesn't end. Tony Stewart, Ty Dillon and Jamie McMurray are scheduled to host an autograph signing at Bass Pro Shops at 6 p.m.(TSS)(10-4-2012)
National Anthem singers announced for Talladega: Up and coming country singer-songwriter RaeLynn has just been announced as the National Anthem singer for the Good Sam Roadside Assistance 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on October 7th. Known for being voted to Team Blake during season 2 of "The Voice", RaeLynn will be performing "The Star-Spangled Banner" just before the engines roar to life on Sunday at Talladega Superspeedway-NASCAR's Most Competitive Track. Following her success on NBC's hit singing competition, RaeLynn has garnered praise from some of country music's top stars, including Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert, who invited RaeLynn to perform with her at Stagecoach, California's premier country music festival. RaeLynn has also been writing and recording songs for her first album on Republic Nashville, which will showcase pizzazz and honor country roots. Before the trucks hit the track on Saturday for the Camping World Truck Series fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola, local 2nd-grader Malia Thibado will sing the national anthem.(TSS)(10-4-2012)
Miller Lite Infield Track Bar returns at Talladega: One of the main attractions at this year's Good Sam Roadside Assistance 500 Weekend is the return of the Miller Lite Infield Track Bar. Open until 2 a.m. Friday through Sunday, the bar serves up the coldest beer at the track and is a huge hub of excitement among race fans all weekend long. Over the years the bar has become the place to party and watch college football on Saturday. The Miller Lite Infield Track Bar is located at the intersection of Talladega and Eastaboga Boulevards, putting it at the center of the famous Talladega infield action. The bar opens at 4 p.m. on Friday and at 11 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Extra TV's are being brought in this year to make sure fans catch all the college football action on Saturday.(TSS)(10-3-2012)
Talladega pre-race ceremonies bring star power to track: The Good Sam Roadside Assistance 500 Weekend is only days away and with it comes a list of Pre-Race Dignitaries that includes respected executives and stars of television and film. The fred's 250 Powered by Coca-Cola gets the racing action started with Grand Marshal Alan Crocket, Executive VP & Chief Merchandising Officer of fred's. Waving the green flag is Honorary Starter Keith Curtis, Senior Vice President Merchandising of fred's. For Sunday's main event, the Good Sam Roadside Assistance 500, the Honorary Starter will be TJ Smith, the Vice President of Camping World with Willie and Korie Robertson from the A&E series "Duck Dynasty" serving as honorary race officials. The Grand Marshal is actor Kevin James, star of the film Here Comes the Boom which hits theaters on October 12th.(TSS)(10-2-2012)
Kevin James named Grand Marshal at Talladega Kevin James will be the Grand Marshal for the Good Sam Roadside Assistance 500. Known for his hit TV sitcom "The King of Queens" and such blockbuster films as Paul Blart: Mall Cop, Zookeeper, Grown Ups, and Hitch, James will be adding some definite star power to the weekend's lineup of racing and fun-filled festivities. James will be at Talladega in support of his latest comedy film Here Comes the Boom, in theaters on Friday, October 12. As Grand Marshal, James will give the most famous words in motorsports - "Gentlemen, start your engines" - for the fourth race of the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup on Sunday, Oct. 7 (ESPN, 2 p.m. ET).(TSS)(9-29-2012)
SPEED On-Air personalities to appear at Talladega Experience SPEED analysts Kyle Petty, Rutledge Wood, Kenny Wallace and Matt Clark have been added to the list of big names appearing at this year's Talladega Experience during the 2012 Good Sam Roadside Assistance 500 Weekend. The four men have used their vast NASCAR knowledge and experience to make shows like NASCAR RaceDay, NASCAR Victory Lane and others big hits for SPEED . The Talladega Experience is the ultimate fan hospitality area that gives fans access to specialty food and beverage tents, as well as exclusive appearances and Q & As from motorsports personalities and entertainers. This year's lineup is full of prominent names, including Willie from the hit TV show "Duck Dynasty" and Sprint Cup Series driver Dale Earnhardt Jr. Also included with the Talladega Experience package is a Pre-Race Pit Pass, Suite/Hospitality parking pass, an event souvenir, and access to Driver Introductions before the race. Price for the package is $139 per person (plus cost of race ticket).(TSS)(9-28-2012)
Talladega & NASCAR Green Program Plant 60 Trees In Tuscaloosa Parks: Talladega Superspeedway, Tuscaloosa County Park and Recreation Authority and United Saints Recovery Project began planting the first of 60 trees which were donated as part of NASCAR's Green initiative in Rosedale Park in Tuscaloosa Tuesday. NASCAR's Green program donates ten trees for each green flag that drops during a race. Six green flags were shown during the spring race at Talladega Superspeedway, hence the 60 trees. Tuscaloosa was selected in an effort to help the ongoing recovery from the tornado on April 27, 2011. The trees were purchased at a cost of approximately $12,500 and include the following varieties: Green Mountain Maple-17, Legacy Maple-19, White Flowering Dogwood-7, Pin Oak-12 and Princeton American Elm-5.(TSS)(9-26-2012)
2013 Event Dates at Talladega Superspeedway: The 2013 NASCAR season at Talladega Superspeedway will bring a few changes, but the crowd-pleasing excitement of side-by-side pack racing will stay the same. Before fans return next year to NASCAR's Most Competitive Track, it is important that they know the new dates and mark their calendars. The Aaron's Dream Weekend stays virtually unchanged from its 2012 date and will fall on May 3-5, 2013. The Good Sam Roadside Assistance 500 weekend will move back a few weeks deeper into the Chase, making it even more of a "wild card" in the 2013 Chase for the Sprint Cup. Scheduled for October 18-20, the fall race at Talladega Superspeedway will be a must see event. The most competitive racing in NASCAR combined with a mix of southern hospitality returns to Talladega Superspeedway October 5-7, 2012 for the Good Sam Roadside Assistance 500 Weekend. For tickets and information visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(9-21-2012)
Talladega Nights to be Shown Following Saturday Night Infield Concert: The biggest infield party in NASCAR just got an extra helping of a little "Shake...and Bake". The hit movie Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby, will be shown in the infield of Talladega Superspeedway on Saturday, October 6th. The movie will follow the Florida Georgia Line concert, and is just one of the many added attractions at this year's Good Sam Roadside Assistance 500 Weekend. The movie, which stars Will Ferrell and John C. Riley, was filmed on location at Talladega Superspeedway in 2005. Cameos from real life NASCAR drivers and personalities abound in this hilarious film based on the racing career of fictional racecar driver Ricky Bobby. To gain entry to the Saturday night movie, as well as the concert, fans must present a ticket for the Sunday race or have an infield admission. The Sprint Vision screen showing the film will be located near the intersection of Talladega and Eastaboga Boulevards in the infield. The concert will begin at 7:30, and the film will begin showing immediately following the conclusion of the concert. The most competitive racing in NASCAR combined with a mix of southern hospitality returns to Talladega Superspeedway October 5-7, 2012 for the Good Sam Roadside Assistance 500 Weekend. For tickets and information visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(9-19-2012)
2013 Sprint Cup Car Test at Talladega Open to the Public: For the 2013 season all car manufacturers racing in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series will roll out new designs for competition. The new car designs, which more closely resemble the cars sold in dealerships across the country, will be at Talladega Superspeedway for a test session on Wednesday, October 3rd. That test will be open to the public so fans can catch a glimpse of the new cars before they are premiered next season. Garages open for the teams at 9 a.m. on Wednesday with cars scheduled to hit the track at 11 a.m. Race fans camping in the infield should note that this test will impact access to the crossover gate. Seating for the test session will be on the backstretch, in section Y of the Allison Grandstands. Fans can park in Lot 6E and enter the grandstands through gate P-22. Concession stands will not be open, but standard gate rules apply and fans can bring in food and beverages in approved coolers. Gates will be open 11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. The test is scheduled to end at 4:30 p.m. with the garages closing for the teams at 5:30 p.m.(TSS)(9-14-2012)
Florida Georgia Line to Rock at Talladega: Talladega Superspeedway announced that rising country rock duo Florida Georgia Line will perform the Saturday night infield concert on October 6th during the Good Sam Roadside Assistance 500 Weekend. This Talladega tradition is always a highlight of race weekend that transforms the Talladega infield into the biggest party in NASCAR. To gain entry to the Saturday night concert, fans must present a ticket for the Sunday race or have an infield admission. The stage will be located near the intersection of Talladega and Eastaboga Boulevards in the infield. The concert will begin at 7:30 and include an opening performance by Talladega favorite Tim Dugger. For tickets and information visit talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(9-10-2012)
Fans can drive Talladega during Fan Appreciation Day: Race fans, start your engines! On August 18, anyone who purchased a ticket for the 2012 Aaron's 499 or the upcoming October 7th Good Sam Roadside Assistance 500 at Talladega Superspeedway has the opportunity to drive their vehicle on the world famous 2.66 mile racetrack. NASCAR's Most Competitive Track, with its high 33-degree banking, has always been a sight to behold from the grandstands or the infield, but viewing the track while driving on the same asphalt as racing legends is an once-in-a-lifetime experience. To receive a voucher to drive 'DEGA fans should log on to www.talladegasuperspeedway.com/FanDay or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA. This opportunity is a part of Talladega Superspeedway's 2012 Fan Appreciation Day, and is a way for the track and all of its employees to say 'thank you' to the fans that make the commitment to attend races each and every year.(TSS)(7-8-2012)
Nationwide Series autograph session and ARCA Fan Walk Friday at Talladega: Two great additions to the 2012 Aaron's Dream Weekend at Talladega Superspeedway have just been announced for Friday, May 4th. To kick off the weekend fans will be treated to the ARCA Fan Walk from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and a NASCAR Nationwide Series autograph session from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. The ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards Fan Walk, which returns to the garages of Talladega Superspeedway prior to the International Motorsports Hall of Fame 250, is a unique experience for infield guests, giving them unparalleled access to the action that precedes the start of the race. That same day, the stars of the NASCAR Nationwide Series Aaron's 312 will be out signing autographs for the fans. This face-to-face encounter with the veteran drivers and up-and-comers of the NASCAR Nationwide Series will be a memorable event for all fans. The Fan Walk will be held in the ARCA garage and is open to all infield guests. Free tram service will move guests in and out of the ARCA garage area. The NASCAR Nationwide Series autograph session will be held on the concourse area behind the OV Hill South grandstand sections D & E. Wristbands for the autograph session can be picked up for free from the Guest Services Office located at OV Hill South Grandstand, Section L. (TSS)(4-27-2012)
Talladega Superspeedway Launches Mobile App: Talladega Superspeedway is proud to announce the release of its new mobile application this week. Fans will find it easier than ever to stay in the loop with up to the minute information on all things 'DEGA. The app will be especially useful on race weekends, when it will provide guests with all that's needed to plan their trip, get around the facility and have a good time while they are here. The Talladega Superspeedway app is free and supported on most iPhone and Android devices. The key features include:
· Interactive GPS facility map with search capabilities to find the nearest restroom, food stand, souvenir trailer, tram, first aid station, will call booth, ATM and much more
· Customizable schedule with information on all events taking place over the weekend; fans will be able to personalize their race day and receive notifications for the events they wish to attend
· Social network integration with Talladega Superspeedway's Facebook and Twitter accounts, as well as NASCAR's, NASCAR on Fox's and MRN Radio's social media outlets
· Google directions
· Detailed parking map
· Ability to connect with and locate friends at the race via "Friend Finder"
For tickets and information visit talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(4-23-2012)
Pre-Race Pit Passes Now Available for all 'DEGA Fans: Getting a chance to breathe in the sheer size of Talladega Superspeedway from the pit area is one of the most memorable experiences any NASCAR fan can have. And starting today, race fans have to the ability to add a pre-race pit pass to their ticket orders for just $50. "Watching the racing on display at Talladega Superspeedway from the stands or the infield is an incredible experience, but walking the pits is a whole different ball game," said Grant Lynch, Chairman of Talladega Superspeedway. "With the pre-race pit pass fans have the opportunity to feel the excitement and energy that builds before the green flag waves. It's the experience of a lifetime." The most competitive racing in NASCAR combined with a mix of southern hospitality returns to Talladega Superspeedway May 4-6, 2012 for the Aaron's Dream Weekend. For tickets and information visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(4-19-2012)
New C-Post template to debut at 'Dega: NASCAR will add a new template to its inspection process when teams go through tech May 4 at Talladega Superspeedway. It's a template inspired by Hendrick Motorsports and five-time Cup champion Jimmie Johnson's team. Starting May 4-6 at Talladega, NASCAR will begin using an additional template for the C-post, the area of the car from the roof to the top of the rear quarter panel.(Sporting News)(4-13-2012)
Rodney Atkins to Perform at Talladega Superspeedway: Talladega Superspeedway announced that country superstar Rodney Atkins will perform a Saturday night infield concert on May 5 during the 2012 Aaron's Dream Weekend. All fans with either an Aaron's 499 race ticket or infield admission can catch the Platinum-selling singer/songwriter's performance. To gain entry to the Saturday night concert, fans must present a ticket for the Sunday race or have an infield admission. The stage will be located near the intersection of Talladega and Eastaboga Boulevards in the infield. The concert will begin at 7:30pm and include an opening act to be announced soon. The most competitive racing in NASCAR combined with a mix of southern hospitality returns to Talladega Superspeedway May 4-6, 2012 for the Aaron's Dream Weekend. For tickets and information visit talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(Talladega Superspeedway)(3-27-2012)
Tickets to Talladega Superspeedway race on sale: The start of the NASCAR season is just around the corner and now is the time to secure tickets for the fastest and most competitive show on the schedule. Tickets for the 2012 Aaron's Dream Weekend go on sale to the public Saturday, February 11th. This action-packed weekend that runs May 4 - 6 includes the ARCA Racing Series 250 on Friday, the Aaron's 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series race on Saturday, and the feature presentation, the Aaron's 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with the largest infield party in NASCAR. Two-day tickets start at just $49 in the Allison Grandstands. And as always, free camping is available so there's no reason to miss a minute of the action. Secure your tickets at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or by calling 877-Go2-DEGA.(Talladega Superspeedway)(2-10-2012)
O'Reilly Auto Parts Becomes Official Auto Parts Retailer at Talladega: Talladega Superspeedway announced that O'Reilly Auto Parts will be an official sponsor in 2012. The multi-year agreement gives O'Reilly the distinction of Official Auto Parts Retailer of Talladega Superspeedway. "We're excited to welcome back O'Reilly Auto Parts to the Talladega Superspeedway team of sponsors," said Talladega Superspeedway Chairman Grant Lynch. "Having worked together in the past, it's extremely rewarding to do business with a company that has a deep understanding of our sport and the best way to leverage their exposure. We look forward to sharing their brand with the thousands of loyal Talladega Superspeedway fans."(TSS)(1-22-2012)
Talladega Superspeedway Offering Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals: Retailers won't be the only businesses seeking to drive up sales while passing on great values to customers following Thanksgiving. Talladega Superspeedway is getting into the holiday spirit with a couple of great deals for Black Friday (Nov. 25) and Cyber Monday (Nov. 28). The Black Friday deal offered by Talladega Superspeedway will feature two OV Hill North Tower tickets for the 2012 Aaron's 499 and a 4-lap ride with the Dale Jarrett Racing Adventure. If purchased individually the items would total $445. However, with Black Friday savings the package is available for only $299; a 30% savings. The Cyber Monday deal consists of a Gadsden Grandstand ticket for the Aaron's 499 and a Talladega Superspeedway t-shirt for only $49. The ticket alone is valued at $50 for this excellent stocking stuffer. To take advantage of the Black Friday and Cyber Monday ticket specials, race fans can call 1-877-Go2-DEGA or visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com/deals.(TSS)(11-24-2011)
Bowyer wins at Talladega: #33-Clint Bowyer won the Good Sam Club 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Talladega Superspeedway for his 5th career win and 1st of the season. The win is also the 100th win for Richard Childress Racing.
#312-Burton was leading at the white flag, #33-Bowyer was his partner and pushing, Bowyer moved over on the tri-oval to pass Burton and they had a drag race to the start-finish line with Bowyer winning.
#31-Burton finished 2nd [his first top 5 of the season] followed by #36-Blaney [the top 10 means kids eat free at Golden Corral], #2-Keselowski, #83-Vickers, #4-Kahne, #14-Stewart, #11-Hamlin, #15-Waltrip and #56-Truex Jr. Pole sitter #5-Martin led 2 laps, was involved in a late wreck and finished 20th.
#78-Smith was involved in a nasty wreck where he went head first into the wall, but walked away ok, but a fuel fire occurred at Furniture Row Racing's hauler, with some scary flames, but the first was put out fast and no major damage or injuries.
#99-Edwards leads the Chase by 14 points over #17-Kenseth.
There were 72 lead changes among 26 drivers and 9 cautions for 38 yellow flag laps. The attendance is listed as 105,000 down from 110,000 last year.
Scheduled Race Re-Airs: ESPN2, Monday, October 24 at 12:00am/et; SPEED, Wednesday, October 26 at 12:00pm/et
See race results, awards, laps led and more on Jayski's Talladega Race Results/Awards page.(10-23-2011)
Talladega Superspeedway Creates Special Award For 100 Lead Changes: Talladega Superspeedway announced that if the running Good Sam Club 500 eclipses 100 lead changes during the race, the driver who takes the lead the most times throughout the race will earn $100,000.
As of lap 188 of 188: 72 lead changes, so the $100,000 bonus was not paid out.(10-23-2011)
Size Matters at Talladega Superspeedway: At Talladega Superspeedway, size matters. NASCAR's longest track has the longest frontstretch grandstand, sits on the largest property with the largest free campgrounds, and has the steepest banking of any NASCAR track. Talladega races have more lead changes and passes than any other track, and NASCAR's fastest 500-mile race ever was run on the track's storied acres of asphalt. It's only fitting that a track brimming with big numbers would offer big numbers to its fans, and that's exactly what Talladega Superspeedway is doing. By the time the Aaron's Dream Weekend returns to Talladega in May 2012, all the existing seats in the Tri-Oval and OV Hill South Towers will have been replaced with wider, more comfortable, 22-inch-wide, chairback seats with drip shields. Grant Lynch, chairman of Talladega Superspeedway, said, "Talladega Superspeedway has always focused on providing the biggest, fastest, most memorable experience possible for the fans. Size matters when it comes to the best racing, and size matters when it comes to sitting back and comfortably enjoying that racing. These new seats will make coming to Talladega an even more enjoyable experience." These conversions are Phase 2 of a four-phase renovation. All the lower grandstand seats were converted in Phase 1, which is already complete. Seats in the Talladega, Moss-Thornton, Birmingham, OV Hill North and Anniston towers will be converted in Phase 3. Remaining seats in the Talladega, Lincoln and Gadsden towers will be converted in Phase 4. Race fans that want to experience true southern hospitality combined with the most competitive racing in NASCAR should call the Talladega Superspeedway Ticket Office today at 1-877-Go2-DEGA. Tickets are available online at talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(10-23-2011)
Oct. 23rd proclaimed 'Don Naman Day' In Honor of Former Talladega Superspeedway GM: The Alabama Legislature and Talladega County Commission have proclaimed Oct. 23 to be Don Naman Day in honor of Talladega Superspeedway's first general manager. Naman passed away in July at the age of 76. "Don was a major factor in growing Talladega Superspeedway and the International Motorsports Hall of Fame into the magnificent facilities they are today," said Talladega Superspeedway Chairman Grant Lynch. "We are all honored that the legislature and county commission would recognize Don with his own day during race weekend. I know this would make him proud." Naman joined Talladega Superspeedway in 1970. He served as general manager for 18 years before transitioning to the International Motorsports Hall of Fame and Museum. He served as executive director at the Hall of Fame for an additional 12 years before retiring. Naman is survived by daughter Sharon, sons Donald, Kevin and Joseph, sister Grace and grandchildren Taylor, Erin, Ryan, Ross and Justin. Race fans that want to experience true southern hospitality combined with the most competitive racing in NASCAR should call the Talladega Superspeedway Ticket Office today at 1-877-Go2-DEGA. Tickets are available online at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(Talladega Superspeedway)(10-22-2011)
Infield Concert at Talladega Superspeedway: Talladega Superspeedway announced today that Valory Music Co. recording artist Brantley Gilbert will perform Saturday night in the renowned Talladega infield. Gilbert's latest hit, "Country Must Be Country Wide" is currently 12th on the Billboard Country Music chart. His new album, Halfway to Heaven Deluxe, debuted last week at #2 on the Billboard Country Albums chart selling over 50,000 copies. The concert will be open to all infield guests and any race fan presenting a Sunday Good Sam Club 500 ticket. Race fans that want to experience true southern hospitality combined with the most competitive racing in NASCAR should call the Talladega Superspeedway Ticket Office today at 1-877-Go2-DEGA. Guests that purchase their tickets in advance have the opportunity to save over those who purchase during race week. Tickets are available online at talladegasuperspeedway.com.(Talladega Superspeedway)(10-22-2011)
Some rule changes to watch for this weekend at Talladega: The size of the restrictor plate that teams will use to prepare and practice for the race will increase by 1/64 inch and is now going to be 57/64-inch diameter. This will provide the teams with an additional 7-10 horsepower. Additionally, the pressure relief valve on the cars' cooling system will be re-calibrated to reduce the pressure by approximately eight pounds per square inch from this past April's race at Talladega.(NASCAR)(10-21-2011)
Talladega Superspeedway Saluting the Troops with Patriotic Pre-race: NASCAR races have long paid tribute to American service members with patriotic flyovers and national anthem performances. Race fans attending the Oct. 23rd Good Sam Club 500 at Talladega Superspeedway will see that tribute taken a step further with a host of military tributes during pre-race ceremonies. Including:
· World War II military vehicle parade lap
· 30 minute pre-race concert performed by the 82nd Airborne All-American Chorus
· Parachute jump performed by the All-American Freefall Team
· Presentation of the nation's colors by the Alabama Army National Guard Color Guard
· Performance of the national anthem by the 82nd Airborne All-American Chorus
· Flyover by two F-22 Raptors from the 325th Fighter Wing, 43rd Fighter Squadron out of Tyndall Air Force Base.
· Semi-truck parade lap presenting the American flag during the national anthem.
"The men and women serving in the military are the ones that give us the freedoms to host events such as NASCAR races," said Talladega Superspeedway Chairman Grant Lynch. "We appreciate all that they do for us and look forward to welcoming them to Talladega Superspeedway." Race fans that want to experience true southern hospitality combined with the most competitive racing in NASCAR should call the Talladega Superspeedway Ticket Office today at 1-877-Go2-DEGA. Guests that purchase their tickets in advance have the opportunity to save over those who purchase during race week. Tickets are available online at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(10-19-2011)
Talladega to host fan fest & hauler parade: Talladega Superspeedway, NASCAR's Most Competitive Track, will host a special fan fest and hauler parade at The Outlet Shops of Grand River, a distinctive outlet shopping destination located minutes from Downtown Birmingham in Leeds, Thursday, Oct. 20 from 3-6 p.m. Race fans will have the chance to see the giant machines responsible for safely transporting the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series cars and equipment across the country. The free event will also feature an array of family-friendly activities, ending with a hauler parade to the track. The hauler parade will depart The Outlet Shops of Grand River at 6:15 pm and is expected to arrive at Talladega Superspeedway at approximately 6:45 pm. Race fans located in the campgrounds are encouraged to turn their attention to Speedway Blvd. and watch the parade as it makes its way into the track.(TSS)(10-18-2011)
Talladega Superspeedway Creating Special Award For 100 Lead Changes: Talladega Superspeedway has long been known as NASCAR's Most Competitive Track...and now it's looking to back up that reputation with cold hard cash. Track officials believe that this month's running of the Good Sam Club 500 could eclipse 100 lead changes during the race and should that happen, the driver who takes the lead the most times throughout the race will earn $100,000.
"There's a real excitement and buzz going into our race weekend," said Talladega Superspeedway Chairman Grant Lynch. "Our fans look forward to seeing a lot of passing and a lot of lead changes. It makes sense to put an extra incentive on giving our fans what they want. The new rules package, that includes a larger restrictor plate opening, should give drivers the opportunity to really mix it up and pass even more in traffic. This is going to be an exciting race on Oct. 23 and we look forward to potentially setting another NASCAR record."
Talladega Superspeedway currently holds the NASCAR record of 88 lead changes in a race, a mark that has been reached twice. Both instances occurred in the spring race at Talladega Superspeedway (2010 & 2011) with the 2010 fall race narrowly missing the mark with 87 lead changes.
Talladega also holds NASCAR records for leaders (29), fastest average race speed (188.354 mph) and fastest qualifying speed (212.809 mph).
Race fans that want to experience true southern hospitality combined with the most competitive racing in NASCAR should call the Talladega Superspeedway Ticket Office today at 1-877-Go2-DEGA. Guests that purchase their tickets in advance have the opportunity to save over those who purchase during race week. Tickets are available online at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(10-8-2011)
Tour pit road at Talladega: Ever want to tour pit road prior to the most pivotal race in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup? Here's your opportunity! A limited quantity of pre-race pit passes are on-sale now to all Talladega Superspeedway ticket holders for only $50, an opportunity that was previously limited to hospitality and select tower seat purchasers. In addition the "field level" atmosphere, this is also a great opportunity for the shutterbug race fan. Crews will be setting up pit boxes and the starting grid will be rolling onto pit road providing amazing photo opportunities and an experience that is sure to last a lifetime. Ticket holders can call the Talladega Superspeedway Ticket Office at 1-877-Go2-DEGA to secure pit-passes. Supplies are limited and expected to sell out before race weekend. Race fans that want to experience true southern hospitality combined with the most competitive racing in NASCAR should call the Talladega Superspeedway Ticket Office today at 1-877-Go2-DEGA. Guests that purchase their tickets in advance have the opportunity to save over those who purchase during race week. Tickets are available online at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(Talladega Superspeedway)(10-4-2011)
NASCAR prohibiting teams from greasing bumpers at Talladega: Along with changes to the size of the restrictor-plate and the pressure release valves of Sprint Cup cars there is another change mandated by NASCAR that will affect the racing there next month. In the technical bulletin issued to teams this week outlining the changes at Talladega, there was also a note that "the addition of lubricants to the rear bumper cover will not be permitted." To keep the pushing car from spinning out the lead car in the two-car tandems, teams have used everything from grease, to ointment to cooking spray to keep the bumpers from getting locked up when they meet.(Charlotte Observers)(9-25-2011)
NASCAR increasing restrictor plate size at Talladega: UPDATE: NASCAR will implement two rule changes for next month's running of the Good Sam Club 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Talladega Superspeedway. The size of the restrictor plate that teams will use to prepare and practice for the race will increase by 1/64 inch and is now going to be 57/64 inch diameter. This will provide the teams with an additional 7-10 horsepower. Additionally, the pressure relief valve on the cars' cooling system will be recalibrated to reduce the pressure by approximately eight pounds per square inch from last April's NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Talladega. "After the last few superspeedway races, we've heard many drivers express their desire to open up the size of the restrictor plate some and we thought the time was right to do that," said Robin Pemberton, NASCAR vice president, competition. "We anticipate these revisions in the rules package for Talladega will help continue to provide competitive and exciting racing for the fans."(NASCAR)(9-21-2011)
UPDATE: The larger restrictor plate could push speeds over 200 mph, but the combination of the pop-off valve change likely means the cars won't be able to stay locked together for as many laps. #00-David Reutimann crew chief Rodney Childers thinks drivers might be limited to a lap of pushing before needing to swap. "Changing the plates will be better," Childers said. "It should make it more racy, where you can pull out and pass. If they are wanting to make it where people can't draft as long, it's going to do that. Probably only a half of a lap or a lap is all you're going to get out of it." Chad Johnston, crew chief for #56-Martin Truex Jr., predicted that drivers will have to swap positions more. That could make it dicey, he said, because drivers will have to swap while also avoiding the two-car packs closing in behind them. The chances of something going wrong on a swap are going to go up obviously, but hopefully it will eliminate or lessen the two-by-two racing," he said.(Associated Press/ESPN)(9-22-2011)
Talladega Superspeedway accepting applications for Fan Advisory Network: The TSS FAN was established in 2010 to gain insight on race fan interactions with the track, from the ticket buying process all the way through the exit procedures after a race. Race fans that would like to participate in the Fan Advisory Network are encouraged to download an application at talladegasuperspeedway.com/tssfan.(TSS)(9-12-2011)
Good Sam Club sponsoring Talladega race: Talladega Superspeedway announced a multi-year partnership with Good Sam Club for sponsorship of the track's fall NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. This year's event, the Good Sam Club 500, is scheduled for October 23. "Talladega Superspeedway has long been known for our thousands of acres of free and reserved camping," said Talladega Superspeedway Chairman Grant Lynch. "To welcome a sponsor such as Good Sam Club is a real honor and a great fit for our two brands. We look forward to welcoming thousands of RV'ers to Talladega Superspeedway Oct 21-23."(TSS)(9-13-2011)
Changes in Talladega 2012 race dates: Talladega Superspeedway announced that the 2012 Aaron's Dream Weekend returns to a traditional place on the calendar; May 4-6. The 2012 Talladega 500 Weekend also moves up on the calendar to October 5-7. Talladega historically held a race in May from 1971 through 1994. The shift in dates should bring a favorable change in the weather that has affected the past two spring weekends at Talladega Superspeedway. May historically is a drier and less stormy month than April in Alabama. "We approached NASCAR about changing the date of the Aaron's Dream Weekend and have been extremely pleased with their cooperation and flexibility," said Talladega Superspeedway Chairman Grant Lynch. "May is a great month to visit Alabama and we look forward to welcoming all our race fans. As one of the most historical tracks in NASCAR, it's great to see another tradition return to Talladega." Race fans don't have to wait until 2012 to experience the excitement of a Talladega race weekend. True southern hospitality combined with the most competitive racing in NASCAR awaits race fans during the Oct. 21 -23 Talladega 500 Weekend. For tickets, call the Talladega Superspeedway Ticket Office today at 1-877-Go2-DEGA. Guests that purchase their tickets in advance have the opportunity to save over those who purchase during race week. Tickets are also available online at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(9-6-2011)
Coca-Cola sponsoring Talladega truck race: Coca-Cola is taking the driver's seat as the new title sponsor of the Camping World Truck Series race at Talladega Superspeedway, and fred's Super Dollar is joining the ride. For the newly christened Coca-Cola 250 Powered By fred's, racing fans can count on having plenty of ice cold Coca-Cola on hand as they enjoy the action on the track. The October 22 event marks the first time Coca-Cola will be the official sponsor of a race at Talladega. NASCAR action returns to NASCAR's Most Competitive Track with the Coca-Cola 250 Powered By fred's NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race and Race Number Six in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, the Talladega 500, Oct. 21 - 23.(TSS)(7-13-2011)
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)
Talladega 500 Race Weekend Tickets on sale July 1: Talladega Superspeedway tickets and camping reservations to the Talladega 500 will go on sale July 1st. Allison Grandstand tickets for Saturday and Sunday's races will be available for only $49, with kids 12 and under admitted free. Kids will also receive free admission to the frontstretch on Friday and Saturday of race weekend. Race fans that purchase their tickets in July have the opportunity to save up to $20 more than those who purchase during race week. After July 31st, prices will increase leading up to the October 21 - 23 weekend. Hotels with race fan friendly pricing and no minimum-night stays are available at www.degarooms.com.(TSS)(6-18-2011)
Donate and Drive 'DEGA, to Aid in Alabama Disaster Relief: Talladega Superspeedway announced plans to aid the American Red Cross in relief efforts from the devastation of yesterday's storms that tore through Alabama with a $100,000 commitment. Race fans can do their part as well and get a chance at tackling the high-banks of Talladega in turn. For a $50 donation to the American Red Cross race fans will be able to drive their personal vehicle around the high-banks of Talladega Superspeedway, May 6 -8. Cash and check donations will be accepted at the gate of Talladega Superspeedway with all proceeds going to the Alabama chapter of the American Red Cross. More info at talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS) and to donate to the Red Cross to help anyone involved in the storms, go to redcross.org.(4-28-2011)
Talladega Superspeedway Joins Drive to End Hunger: Drive to End Hunger and Talladega Superspeedway announced that, on behalf of DTEH, Americrown, Talladega's food and beverage concessions operator, has donated its extra food items from the Aaron's Dream Weekend to the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama. Drive to End Hunger is AARP and AARP Foundation's national effort to end hunger for older Americans. Donations included breads, produce and other food items. "We are pleased that Talladega Superspeedway, through AARP's Drive to End Hunger, can make a significant difference for people in our community," Talladega Superspeedway Chairman Grant Lynch said. "In Alabama alone, more than 20 percent of people reported not having enough money to buy food in the last year. More than seven percent of seniors in Alabama are at risk of hunger. Particularly in these economic times, we want to do everything we can to support the folks in communities around the track. They are important to us, they are important to the sport, and solving this problem should be important to everyone in America."(Talladega Superspeedway)(4-20-2011)
Talladega Unveils New Shower and Restroom Facilities: Talladega Superspeedway unveiled a new shower and restroom facility outside of Turn 1 that will service the Family and FREE South campgrounds. "The shower house that previously served this area was built in 1988 when Mike Helton was President of Talladega Superspeedway," said Talladega Superspeedway Chairman Grant Lynch. "While it served us well for many years, it was quite small with only four showers (2 men's and 2 women's). The new shower house has 18 showers on each side and more than 30 restroom facilities on each side. It's a substantial improvement. We've also converted the old shower house into a Security and Guest Services building that will service the South side of the track." The new shower facility measures approximately 6400 square-feet compared to approximately 800 square-feet for the old facility. An array of Rheem tank-less hot water heaters provide instant hot water throughout shower house. Additionally, Geico and Camping World will have displays near the new shower house to provide camping services for race fans. To purchase or for more information on tickets to Talladega Superspeedway or this event, please visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(Talladega Superspeedway)(4-15-2011)
New Musical Talent Added to Aaron's Dream Weekend at Talladega: Talladega Superspeedway has added a pair of rising stars to the Aaron's Dream Weekend musical lineup. Ashton Shepherd will perform the national anthem on Sunday, April 17 prior to the Aaron's 499 and Tim Dugger will open for Gretchen Wilson on Saturday, April 16 for the infield concert. Shepherd, a native of Coffeeville, AL, has been performing since childhood. Her second album, "Where Country Grows", is due out June 7. Dugger, also an Alabama native, has been performing with his band every weekend since the age of 14. His current CD, "Sunday Drive", features video from Richard Childress Racing and NASCAR Camping World Truck Series driver Austin Dillon.(TSS)(4-8-2011)
Gretchen Wilson to Perform Saturday Night Infield Concert at Talladega: The party continues as Grammy Award-winning artist Gretchen Wilson performs a free Saturday night infield concert for Talladega Superspeedway race fans. The April 16th concert will be open to all infield guests and any race fan presenting a Sunday Aaron's 499 race ticket. With the release of her fourth studio album, I Got Your Country Right Here, Gretchen Wilson solidifies her position as one of contemporary country's most original and multi-faceted female artists.To purchase or for more information on tickets to Talladega Superspeedway, please visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(3-27-2011)
Talladega and NASCAR Hall of Fame offer Bobby Allison Ticket Offer:Talladega Superspeedway and the NASCAR Hall of Fame are offering an exclusive ticket package to commemorate Bobby Allison's 2011 Induction to the NASCAR Hall of Fame. The $69 package includes seating in the Allison Grandstands at Talladega Superspeedway for the Aaron's 312 and Aaron's 499, access to a Q&A with Allison on Saturday and Sunday of race weekend, admission to the International Motorsports Hall of Fame at Talladega Superspeedway and an admission to the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte. The Bobby Allison Hall of Fame offer also presents a great savings for families. Kid's 12 and under will receive all the same amenities as their parents for only $15. All-You -Can-Eat packages for Saturday and Sunday can be added to both Bobby Allison Hall of Fame offers for an additional $40. To purchase or for more information on tickets to Talladega Superspeedway or this event, please visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(3-27-2011)
Smaller restrictor plate for Dega: Sirius NASCAR Radio's Sirius Speedway with Dave Moody has learned that NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams have been notified that they will be using a 7/8 inch diameter restrictor plate in next month's event at Talladega. That represents a 1/64 reduction from what was used in the season-opening Daytona 500. Cooling system regulations will remain the same as at Daytona, with maximum air inlets mandated at three inches high by 20 inches wide.(Sirius Speedway)(3-24-2011)
Changes for Talladega? Dustin Long of the Virginian Pilot talked with Robin Pemberton, vice president of competition for NASCAR, and asked him about any major changes for the cars for Talladega. There had been some talk of major changes to the radiator or a different radiator to control how long the cars can run in that two-car draft as they did at Daytona. Said Pemberton: "Any possible change of any type of cooling has been toned down quite a bit. We're working with the teams on some parameters which we're not ready to go public yet, but nothing is earth shattering. I would say the changes would be very minimal.''(Virginian Pilot)(3-19-2011)
Should drivers communicate with each other during races? UPDATE: Drivers were able to communicate with non-teammates for the first time during the Daytona 500, which added an intriguing element to NASCAR's biggest race. Because there was a need for two-car tandems to work together while the race was going on, many drivers set their radios up so they could speak with their competitors. But some drivers believe the practice should be banned. "I think NASCAR should step in on drivers getting on other teams' radios," #22-Kurt Busch said. "... We shouldn't be able to communicate with radios." #5-Mark Martin had only four drivers among his options for chatting: His three teammates and #43-AJ Allmendinger. But the veteran agreed with Busch, saying he hopes his competitors "clean the radios up." #27-Paul Menard said he had 12 different drivers on his radio during the Daytona 500 - and was just fine with continuing the practice for future restrictor-plate races if NASCAR doesn't pass a rule against it. #99-Carl Edwards backed the open radio communication between drivers based on safety reasons, calling it "necessary."(SB Nation)(2-26-2011)
UPDATE: According to Mike Mulhern, "NASCAR's Robin Pemberton says no changes planned for radio rules for Talladega April 17th.(3-6-2011)
Talladega Announces Fan Hall of Fame Nominations Now Being Accepted: The history and lore surrounding Talladega Superspeedway leads thousands of NASCAR fans to flock to the foothills of Alabama twice a year. Now, two fans will be chosen each year to become a part of the track's history when they are enshrined to the Talladega Superspeedway Fan Hall of Fame. Fans can nominate themselves or be nominated by others by completing the online entry form and an essay of 100 words or less, explaining why they should be selected as the ultimate fan of Talladega Superspeedway. The selection committee consists of staff from Talladega Superspeedway and the International Motorsports Hall of Fame. In recognition of being selected to the Talladega Superspeedway Fan Hall of Fame, inductees will be recognized during pre-race ceremonies of the Aaron's 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race and showcased on www.talladegasuperspeedway.com and in a special display at the International Motorsports Hall of Fame and Museum. Nominations for the 2011 Fan Hall of Fame will be accepted from February 1 - March 1, 2011. A full set of rules and online nomination form can be found at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com/fhof. For more information on tickets to Talladega Superspeedway, please visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(2-4-2011)
2010 News
Talladega Superspeedway Announces Fan Advisory Network: Talladega Superspeedway has selected 30 race fans to serve as the first members of the Talladega Superspeedway Fan Advisory Network (TSS FAN). The TSS FAN will focus on creating constructive dialogue with the Talladega Superspeedway administration team. "Our goals is to have a team of race fans that can help us identify areas the track can improve upon that will benefit all fans attending races at Talladega Superspeedway," said Chairman Grant Lynch. "It gives us the ability to look at ourselves through the eyes of a race fan and make the best decisions concerning their experiences." The TSS FAN members will serve a one-year term which will include two race weekends at Talladega. After serving for two race weekends, the member's term will expire and new members will be chosen. In addition to periodic teleconferences, onsite meetings will take place at Talladega Superspeedway during race weekends. The TSS FAN is a part of a series of fan-appreciation initiatives coined the "Fan Salute". The 30 fans:
Fan Advisory Network Members
· Linda Mitchell - Columbus, OH
· Anita Barkley - Lynn, AL
· Connie Doering - Watertown, SD
· Sherrie Perry - New Market, AL
· Ronald Frazier - Montgomery, AL
· Rusty Dossett - Pascagoula, MS
· Candace Melancon - Sorrento, LA
· Steve Daniels - Birmingham, AL
· Camaran Williams - Pell City, AL
· Scott Young - Baldwin City, KS
· Bill Steele - Columbus, NJ
· Melissa Harris - Haleyville, AL
· Deborah Coggins - Evans, GA
· Nathan Thomas - Conway, AR
· Hardy Graham Jr. - Meridian, MS
· Dale Eichler - Vidor, TX
· Richard Sebren - Jackson, MS
· John Lovvorn Jr. - Albertville, AL
· Mike Edwards - Tupelo, MS
· Chuck Estey - Oxford, MS
· Sherie Yates - Clanton, AL
· Jeremy Cooper - Thornton, CO
· Robyn Brown - House Springs, MO
· Stephen Ingram - Columbus, GA
· Jeannie Quick - Jacksonville, FL
· Don Adelmund - Milwaukee, IA
· Jeff Bookout - Cantonment, FL
· Katie Loftus - Buford, GA
· Joshua Elliott - Tuscaloosa, AL
· Diane Lund - Charlotte, NC
(talladegasuperspeedway.com)(12-22-2010)
Larger Coolers Permitted at Talladega in 2011: Following in the tradition of its sister track, Daytona International Speedway, Talladega Superspeedway announced enhancements to the speedway's carry-in policy beginning in 2011. 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 carbonated 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. Additionally, 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. As part of its standard policy, hard-sided coolers will not be allowed into the grandstand area. Tickets are on sale now for the April 15-17, 2011 Aaron's Dream Weekend at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or by calling 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(12-5-2010)
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)
Press Box at Talladega Superspeedway Named Jim Hunter Memorial Press Box: Jim Hunter began his long association with NASCAR as a member of the media. So in the wake of Hunter's death on Friday at age 71, Talladega Superspeedway feels it is a fitting tribute to rename the track's press box in his honor. Hunter began his career as a sportswriter, with stints as the sports editor of the Columbia (S.C.) Record and as a writer for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He also wrote several books, including a biography of legendary NASCAR driver David Pearson. Hunter eventually left the newspaper business and worked as the public relations director for both Talladega Superspeedway and Darlington Raceway. In 1983 he joined NASCAR as the Vice President of Administration. Hunter returned to Darlington Raceway as the track president in 1993. He remained there until 2001, when he became an executive with NASCAR, working as the Vice President of Corporate Communications. Over the years Hunter developed a reputation as a person who could interact smoothly with NASCAR officials, drivers and members of the media who covered the sport.(TSS)(10-31-2010)
NASCAR honors Jim Hunter at Talladega: All teams running in the AMP Energy Juice 500 at Talladega Superspeedway ran a decal honoring Jim Hunter. In addition, NASCAR will also show a video tribute at the track and had a moment of silence before the start of the race. Also, NASCAR officials wore the "NASCAR 1948" yellow hat that Hunter always wore.(10-31-2010)
Talladega prerace officials announced: Fresh off a Saturday night concert in the infield that's open to race fans with a Sunday ticket, Josh Gracin will return to the stage to perform the national anthem prior the AMP Energy Juice 500 at Talladega Superspeedway. Members of the US Air Force Senior Noncommissioned Officers Academy - Senior Master Sargeant Shane Warye, Senior Master Sargeant Scot Divish and Master Sargeant Roger Alves, will perform the anthem prior to the Mountain Dew 250 Fueled by Fred's. Additional AMP Energy Juice 500 Dignitaries: Grand Marshals - Ronald Sturm, Mike Mock, Annette Zablocki, Cindy Mullican, Ronald Pomasl, Thomas Cavalli, Jared Schaefer, Rusty Hagenbuch, John Sheehan, Chris Cobb, Shawn Garrison - AMP Energy Juice Consumer Promotional Winners; Honorary Starter - Paul Birkett - Vice President of Energy, Pepsi Cola North America Beverages; Invocation - Randy Norris -Alabama Raceway Ministries and Pastor of Church at Ross Station in Hoover, AL.(TSS)(10-27-2010)
Camping Still Available at Talladega Superspeedway: Reserved campsites are still available in several of Talladega Superspeedway's overnight parks. Whether a race fan is coming for the World's Largest Halloween party or a relaxing weekend, there's an overnight park available for every need. For the party crowd, Talladega Superspeedway has availability in West Park A & B for $75. West Park allows all modes of camping, from motorhomes, to pull-behinds to tents. It's all welcome in West Park.
East Park is a slightly more upscale campsite reserved for motorhomes and pull-behinds only. Each space features a 20' x 45' gravel pad and is available for $110. East Park has some of the most convenient access to Speedway Blvd of all the Talladega Superspeedway overnight parks.
For a more relaxed "family" atmosphere, Talladega Superspeedway offers Champions Corner. Champions Corner has a strict No-Alcohol policy for all park residents and guests. Each site has 20' x 50' gravel pad with water hookups for motorhomes and pull-behinds only. Champions Corner campsites are available for $280.
To experience camping at Talladega Superspeedway, race fans should call 1-877-Go2-DEGA or visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(10-25-2010)
Get The VIP Treatment at Talladega: Talladega Superspeedway has a special offer for the race fan that demands the ultimate in comfort and luxury.... the Trackside Fan Suite hospitality package.
The Trackside Fan Suite Package includes:
· Pass into the Trackside Fan Suite Saturday and Sunday
· 1 Suite/Hospitality parking pass per two Suite passes
· Pre-Race pit passes (Saturday and Sunday only; schedule & weather permitting)
· Exclusive access to the track for pre-race Driver Introductions
· Saturday event souvenir
· Sunday souvenir race program
· Free Trackside Suite pass for Friday's Happy Hour and Qualifying (suite beverage service only)
· $20 Home Depot gift card (while supplies last)
· Discount scanner rental card
Inside the luxury suite, guests will find:
· Closed-circuit televisions
· Private restrooms
· Catering for breakfast, buffet lunch and unlimited beverages (water, soda, wine and beer) Saturday and Sunday
· Cash bar available
Each Individual Suite Package is $600 and available by calling the Talladega Superspeedway Ticket Office at 1-877-Go2-DEGA, (1-877-462-3342) or visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(10-25-2010)
Talladega Announces Weekend Concerts: Talladega Superspeedway announced the initial lineup of weekend concerts and activities for HALLOW-DEGA Presented by Captain Morgan, including infield concerts by Colt Ford on Friday and The Grand Magnolias on Saturday. Friday, Oct. 29, gets the weekend started with a concert by Colt Ford in the Captain's Quarters. The Captain's Quarters are located in the grass area between Eastaboga and Talladega Blvd in the infield. Fans who have race tickets for Saturday or Sunday are welcome to enjoy the one of a kind atmosphere of the Talladega infield and great music. On Saturday, Oct. 30, race fans will find a costume contest in the Display Area at The Sprint Experience from 2:00 - 3:00 pm. SPEED Channel will again host spooky scream contest from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm with the grand finale occurring live on a special edition of TRACKSIDE Live at 5:30 pm. Vendors throughout the Display Area will also have candy for kids trick-or-treating. NASCAR action kicks off with the Mountain Dew 250 fueled by Fred's NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race, Oct. 30 and continues with Race Number Seven in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, the AMP Energy Juice 500, Oct. 31. To experience it all, call 1-877-Go2-DEGA or visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(10-25-2010)
Dale Jr. and DW to appear in film about Talladega: Award-winning filmmaker Terry Gilliam will premiere his short film The Legend of Hallowdega starring David Arquette and Justin Kirk with special appearances by Dale Earnhardt Jr., Darrell Waltrip and more on Oct. 31st.
The film, produced by AMP Energy Juice and @radical.media, will premiere on Halloween Sunday with the first chapter to debut on ESPN just prior to the start of the AMP Energy Juice 500 at Talladega Superspeedway. Starting Halloween night, the film will be available in its entirety on www.LegendofHallowdega.com. The Legend of Hallowdega is the first short film for both Gilliam and AMP Energy Juice.
The comedy, The Legend of Hallowdega, explores the mysteries around Talladega Superspeedway as the host of an investigative news show (Justin Kirk) joins forces with a techno-geek paranormal expert (David Arquette) to dodge close calls and chase crazy leads to get to the bottom of The Legend of Hallowdega.(NASCAR.com)(10-17-2010)
Talladega Superspeedway Establishing Fan Advisory Network: Talladega Superspeedway announced it is establishing a Fan Advisory Network (FAN) to gain insight on race fan interactions with the track, from the ticket buying process all the way through to the exit procedures after a race. Race fans that would like to participate in the Fan Advisory are encouraged to download an application at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com/tssfan. FAN committee members will begin their duties in January 2011. Members will be asked to meet four (4) times per year; each event weekend and two (2) other dates to be determined. In addition to four annual meetings, Talladega Superspeedway will host multiple teleconferences. The idea is to allow race fans to share thoughts and ideas with the track, while the committee can serve as a focus group for the track when considering facility upgrades and more. More info at talladegasuperspeedway.com/tssfan (TSS)(9-21-2010)
Talladega Superspeedway Is Getting Juiced For Fall Weekend: The AMP Energy 500 is getting a wake up call this year, with the addition of 100% juice. The race has been renamed the AMP Energy Juice 500 to promote new AMP Energy Juice, which has all the power of AMP Energy in a 100% juice formula. A new alternative that ignites and kick starts the day, AMP Energy Juice contains all the power of AMP Energy, while also providing an excellent source of B and C vitamins. Made with a stimulating blend of taurine, ginseng, guarana and no sugar added, the new AMP Energy Juice is a great option for those looking for solutions to get a boost of energy. For tickets and more info call 1-877-Go2-DEGA or visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(9-16-2010)
Talladega Superspeedway Fan Appreciation Day Is Sept. 26th: Talladega Superspeedway will welcome race fans to the track on Sept. 26 for the second annual Fan Appreciation Day. This event is open to the public and free of charge. Best of all, ticket buyers to either of the two NASCAR Sprint Cup Series events at Talladega, the Aaron's 499 in the spring or upcoming AMP Energy 500, will be given the opportunity to drive their cars around the track on paced laps. In addition to thrilling laps around Talladega's historic high banks, there will also be a Kids Zone in the infield for children to share in the excitement of the day. Snacks will be provided by Talladega Superspeedway sponsors and there will also be photo opportunities in Gatorade Victory Lane. Laps around the track begin at 9 am, with the infield opening to the general public from 10am - 2 pm. Additional activities are planned, so race fans should follow www.talladegasuperspeedway.com for the latest details.(TSS)(9-13-2010)
Fans Vote Kahne & Paschal To Talladega-Texaco Walk of Fame: The fans have spoken... and Kasey Kahne and Jim Paschal will be the next drivers enshrined to the Talladega-Texaco Walk of Fame on Saturday, Oct. 30. The Talladega-Texaco Walk of Fame in downtown Talladega is both a focal point saluting NASCAR's greatest names and a tribute to one of racing's brightest stars - the late Davey Allison. Developed in 1994, the Talladega-Texaco Walk of Fame has inducted one active driver and up to two inactive drivers since 1995 based on the fans' vote chosen from a ballot of nominees selected by strict guidelines.
This year's active driver nominee, Kasey Kahne, has thrived in the NASCAR ranks, but his early career began in open-wheel cars. Hailing from Enumclaw, Wash., Kahne tore through the open-wheel world earning a 2000 USAC Midget Series championship and National Midget Driver of the Year honors. His success caught the attention of owners in NASCAR and in 2002 he made his rookie campaign in the NASCAR Nationwide Series. In 2004 he raced his first full season in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, earning the Raybestos Rookie of the Year title and finished 13th in the driver point standings. His most successful season in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series came in 2006 when he won six races and six pole awards to finish eighth in the final season standings. Now in his seventh year at the Sprint Cup level campaigning for Richard Petty Motorsports, Kahne has amassed 11 career wins and 18 career pole awards.
Inactive driver nominee, James Roy Paschal, Jr. known to fans as Jim Paschal, was a driver during NASCAR's formative years. Originally from Highpoint, North Carolina, Paschal competed in his first race at the Charlotte Fairgrounds on June 19, 1949. He won 25 races and 12 poles during his 23-year career. He won the World 600 twice, now known as the Coca Cola 600, in 1964 and 1967. His remaining wins came on short tracks, less than a mile and a half in length. He competed in his last race in 1972, shortly after; Paschal was inducted into the National Motorsports Press Association Hall of Fame. Paschal passed away in 2004 at the age of 77.
Past active driver inductees have included Dale Earnhardt, Dale Earnhardt, Jr., Ernie Irvan, Dale Jarrett, Bill Elliott, Jeff Gordon, Tony Stewart, Bobby Hamilton, Ricky Rudd, Mark Martin, Kyle Petty, Darrell Waltrip, Kevin Harvick, Matt Kenseth, Bobby Labonte and Morgan Shepherd. Richard Petty and Benny Parsons were the first inactive drivers to be inducted, later joined by Alan Kulwicki, Cale Yarborough, Ned Jarrett, Buddy Baker, David Pearson, Junior Johnson, Harry Gant, Lee Petty, Tim Flock, Fireball Roberts, Buck Baker, Joe Weatherly, Red Byron, Bobby Isaac, Fred Lorenzen, Fonty Flock, Herb Thomas, Terry Labonte, Rex White and Jack Smith.
The first inductees - " Alabama Gang" drivers Bobby Allison, Donnie Allison, Red Farmer and Neil Bonnett - were inducted by decree of the board.
In the park, Davey Allison is remembered with a large marble monument, while drivers inducted into the Talladega-Texaco Walk of Fame have bronze plaques placed around the park, accessible by walkways that form the shape of Talladega Superspeedway. For additional information, visit www.talladegawalk.com.
Will more NASCAR history be made when NASCAR returns to Talladega Superspeedway for the AMP Energy 500 weekend? Race fans will have to be here to find out. NASCAR action returns with the Mountain Dew 250 fueled by Fred's NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race and Race Number Seven in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, the AMP Energy 500, Oct. 29 - 31. To experience it all, call 1-877-Go2-DEGA or visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(9-12-2010)
Talladega Offers Kid's Free in Allison Grandstands: Talladega Superspeedway announced that kid's 11 and under will be admitted free to select rows in the Allison Grandstands for the AMP Energy 500 weekend. "The Allison Grandstands are one of the best values in all of motorsports," said Talladega Superspeedway Chairman Grant Lynch. "With the tough economy weighing most heavily on families, we are looking to make it more affordable than ever to experience the excitement of Talladega Superspeedway." Children 11 and under are free in the Allison Grandstands on Saturday for the Mountain Dew 250 and free in rows 1-5 and only $10 in all other rows of the Allison Grandstands on Sunday for the AMP Energy 500. Adult two-day Saturday and Sunday tickets are only $49. For more information on these special offers check out www.talladegasuperspeedway.com. To reserve kid's seating, race fans must call the Talladega Superspeedway Ticket Office at 1-877-Go2-DEGA. Kid's seating must be reserved in advance.(TSS)(8-29-2010)
Goodyear tire test at Talladega on open to the public: Talladega Superspeedway officials announced that the Goodyear Tire Test on August 24 will be open to the public. Drivers scheduled to participate are Justin Allgaier, Aric Almirola, Joey Logano and Elliott Sadler. Parking lots open at 8:30am with the test officially kicking off at 9:00 am. The event is free to the public and food and beverages will be permitted.(TSS)(8-12-2010)
UPDATE: The Goodyear Tire Test at Talladega Superspeedway on Tuesday, August 24 will be closed to the media. However, the grandstands will be open for public viewing, from 9 am - 5 pm. Standard admission rules apply - No glass containers, only soft-sided coolers permitted and coolers must meet size requirement: 6"x6"x12" or smaller. Concession stands will not be open. The Infield will be closed to all non-essential personnel. (TSS)(8-23-2010)
2011 Brings Schedule Change For Talladega Superspeedway: The 2011 NASCAR season brings a slight change to Talladega Superspeedway's place in the schedule. The Aaron's Dream Weekend will be April 15 - 17 (one week early because of the Easter holiday) and the fall race weekend moves off Halloween weekend to Oct. 21 - 23. The 2011 Aaron's Dream Weekend will feature qualifying for the NASCAR Nationwide Series, followed by the ARCA Racing Series 250 race on Friday, April 15. Dakoda Armstrong won this race in 2010 to secure his first Talladega Superspeedway victory. On Saturday, April 16, fans will see qualifying for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, followed by the Aaron's 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series race. Then on Sunday, April 17, the Aaron's 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race.
The 2011 fall weekend will feature NASCAR Sprint Cup Series practice, followed by qualifying for the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series on Friday, Oct. 21. On Saturday, Oct. 22, the field for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race will be set during qualifying, followed by the stars of the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series battling it out in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race. On Sunday, Oct. 23, the NASCAR Sprint Cup race. For information on tickets to Talladega Superspeedway, guests should call 1-877-Go2-DEGA or visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(8-19-2010)
Why are two cars faster then one at Talladega? see a post at Fasttrack RC: Talladega Pas de Deux: why two is the magic number at 'Dega and Talladega Pas de Deux: why two is the magic number at 'Dega, part 2 by Jeff Thompson.(4-26-2010)
Last Chance to Get $29 Ticket Deal at Talladega Superspeedway: Fans should act fast to take advantage of the $29 two-day ticket in the Allison Grandstands for the Oct. 29-31 AMP Energy 500 weekend. The special offer is ending on July 15, 2010. The $29 two-day ticket offer celebrates the NASCAR record breaking 29 leaders in the Aaron's 499 at Talladega Superspeedway. It's valid for any seat in rows two through eleven of the Allison Grandstands. As an added bonus, kids 11 and under will be admitted free to these sections with a ticketed adult. The $88 ticket offer in the Gadsden and Lincoln Towers that celebrates the record 88 lead changes in the Aaron's 499 will continue. Tickets are available online at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or by calling 1-877-Go2-DEGA. To reserve seats for children 11 and under, please call the Talladega Superspeedway Ticket Office at 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(6-21-2010)
Maximize Your Talladega Tailgate With Pepsi Max Tailgate Zone: Talladega Superspeedway officials announced that once again they will be helping fans "maximize" their tailgate experience with the Pepsi Max Tailgate Zone during the AMP Energy 500, Oct. 31. The Pepsi Max Tailgate Zone is an all-inclusive package for race fans featuring: A reserved tailgate area that includes the use of a 10x10 tent, table and chairs, a premium parking pass, and use of a portable generator provided by Honda Generators. The Pepsi Max Tailgate Zone will also feature tailgate activities and contests with prizes from Pepsi Max and other participating partners. Price for the package and four reserved grandstand tickets to the AMP Energy 500 is $299. Race fans that already have their tickets can purchase the Tailgate Zone separately for $125. The Pepsi Max Tailgate Zone package is available by calling the Talladega Superspeedway Ticket Office at 1-877-Go2-DEGA or visiting the website at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS PR)(5-21-2010)
Record-Breaking Action at Talladega Equals More Great Deals For Fans: To celebrate the NASCAR record breaking 29 leaders in the Aaron's 499 at Talladega Superspeedway, track officials have unveiled a new $29 two-day ticket in the Allison Grandstands for the Oct. 29-31 AMP Energy 500 weekend. The $29 two-day ticket will be available for a limited time so race fans should act fast. It's valid for any seat in rows two through eleven of the Allison Grandstands. As an added bonus, kids 11 and under will be admitted free to these sections with a ticketed adult. Tickets are available online at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or by calling 1-877-Go2-DEGA. To reserve seats for children 11 and under, please call the Talladega Superspeedway Ticket Office at 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS PR)(5-11-2010)
Records & Prices Fall at Talladega Superspeedway: Talladega Superspeedway shattered NASCAR records during the Aaron's Dream Weekend and now they are shattering prices too. To commemorate the NASCAR record 88 lead changes set in the Aaron's 499, Talladega Superspeedway has lowered ticket prices in the Gadsden and Lincoln Towers from $120 to $88 for the Oct. 31 AMP Energy 500. Race fans that purchase or renew their tickets in these areas will also be entered into a drawing for 88 autographed Dale Earnhardt Jr. hero cards. NASCAR action returns with the Mountain Dew 250 fueled by Fred's NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race and Race Number Seven in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, the AMP Energy 500, Oct. 29 - 31. To experience it all, call 1-877-Go2-DEGA or visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(Talladega PR)(5-9-2010)
Record-Setting Day At Talladega Superspeedway: Sunday's NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event at Talladega Superspeedway yielded much more than Kevin Harvick's eventual, breath-taking victory in the Aaron's 499. Between green and checkered flags, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers established two all-time and track records, plus a top-10 all-time mark in margin of victory and one track record. Sunday's Aaron's 499 set all-time and track records for lead changes (88) and lap leaders (29). The previous highs were 75 lead changes (set on May 6, 1984) and 28 lap leaders (set on Oct. 5, 2008). Both previous records also were set at Talladega. Harvick's last-second pass of then-leader Jamie McMurray, just short of the checkered flag, produced the eighth-closest finish (.011 of a second) since the 1993 advent of electronic timing and scoring. Sunday's 200 laps (12 beyond the advertised distance of 188 laps) also set a new track record for the longest race at Talladega. Drivers made three attempts at a green-white-checker finish, with Harvick winning on the third and final attempt. The previous longest event at Talladega was 194 laps on May 1, 2005.(NASCAR)(4-26-2010)
Why didn't Miss America sing National Anthem?: Miss America Caressa Cameron was overcome by heat and unable to sing the national anthem Sunday before the NASCAR races at Talladega Superspeedway. The Miss America Organization says Cameron was taken to the track's medical care center, evaluated and quickly released. She is feeling better and resting comfortably.(Associated Press)(4-26-2010)
Harvick wins wild race at Talladega: #29-Kevin Harvick won the Aaron's 499 Sprint Cup Series race at Talladega Superspeedway taking the lead on the third Green-White-Checkered with a few feet to go over #1-Jamie McMurray, winning the race by .011 seconds, the 8th closest finish [since electronic scoring in 1993]. McMurray had led when the last caution came out before lap 188 [the end of the regular length of the race] and led at the start of each of the three green-white-checkered flags. It is Harvick's first win in 115 races [Daytona 500 in 2007], his fist win at Talladega, Richard Childress Racing 90th win and 1st win at Talladega since Dale Earnhardt won his 76th and final race in Oct. 2000. It is Harvick's 12th career win which puts him alone in 31st on the all-time win list. McMurray held on to 2nd place, followed by #42-Montoya, #11-Hamlin, #5-Martin, #6-Ragan, #33-Bowyer, #2-Busch, #18-Busch and #09-Bliss. #48-Johnson wrecked late and finished 31st out of the race. #24-Gordon got involved in a lte wreck, but finished 22nd. #7-Gordon finished 20th and is back in the top 35 in owners points in 34th. The #37 Front Row Motorsports team fell out of the top 35. There were a series and track record 29 leaders with a series and track record 88 lead changes. There were 8 cautions for 32 yellow flag laps.
See race results, awards, laps led and more on Jayski's Race Results/Awards page.
See points standings on Jayski's Drivers Points Standings page.(4-25-2010)
Traffic Improvements for Talladega Race Weekend: Talladega Superspeedway will enact several procedural changes during the Aaron's Dream Weekend that should help speed ingress and egress from the track. Most noticeable, is the installation of a new "express lane" that has been created to speed the exit of Allison Grandstand customers.
Changes by day:
Saturday
· North parking lots 2N & 3N (located directly across from the main entrance to Talladega Superspeedway) will remain closed on Saturday only. Race fans should make plans to park in lots nearest the track, lots 1E - 4E and 1W - 9W.
· West parking lots 10W & 11W (located off New Jackson Trace) will remain closed on Saturday only. If entering the facility from New Jackson Trace, lot 9W will be open for race fans.
· Allison Grandstand customers will now have a new "express lane" that leads them to Speedway Blvd without having to wait on cross-traffic exiting the Gate V9 Infield Crossover.
Sunday
· North Park Free Camping lots will be held for two hours while traffic exits the Free Day Parking lots.
· Reserved Family Camping lots will be held for two hours while traffic exits the Free Day Parking lots.
· Allison Grandstand customers will again be able to use the new "express lane" that leads them to Speedway Blvd without having to wait on cross-traffic exiting the Gate V9 Infield Crossover.
REMINDER: Talladega Superspeedway has enough FREE day parking within easy walking distance of the track for all race fans. Free tram services are also provided throughout the facility. For more information on tickets to Talladega Superspeedway, please visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(4-22-2010)
Talladega Race Dignitaries:< Talladega Superspeedway announced that Miss America 2010, Caressa Cameron, will perform the national anthem prior the Aaron's 499 at Talladega Superspeedway on April 25. Additionally, Nashville Recording Artist Brittini Black will perform the national anthem prior the Aaron's 312 on April 24. Other Aaron's Dream Weekend dignitaries:
Invocation Jeff Sauls, a member of Alabama Raceway Ministries and the Talladega Superspeedway Emergency Services Chaplain, will lead the invocation prior to the ARCA Racing Series 250 on Friday, April 23. Dr. Bart Owen, a member of Alabama Raceway Ministries and the Talladega Superspeedway Security Services Chaplain, will lead the invocation prior to the Aaron's 312. Reverend Mark Stokes, a member of Alabama Raceway Ministries and Pastor of Camellia Baptist Church in Prattville, will lead the invocation prior to the Aaron's 499.
Grand Marshal Thomas Green, Todd Schroeder and Andrew Coughlan of the Wounded Warrior Project will serve as Grand Marshal's for the Aaron's 312. Mal Moore, Director of Athletics for the University of Alabama, will serve as Grand Marshal for the Aaron's 499.
Honorary Starter
Gerard Claseman, winner of the Aaron's Weekend of Your Dreams sweepstakes, will serve as honorary starter for the Aaron's 312.
The winner of the Aaron's PT Rodeo, a competition for select Aaron's employees, will serve as honorary starter for the Aaron's 499.
For more information on tickets to Talladega Superspeedway, please visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(4-22-2010)
Get The VIP Treatment At Talladega In The Trackside Fan Suite: Talladega Superspeedway has a special offer for the race fan that demands the ultimate in comfort and luxury.... the Trackside Fan Suite hospitality package.
The Trackside Fan Suite Package includes:
· Pass into the Trackside Fan Suite Friday, Saturday and Sunday
· 1 Suite/Hospitality parking pass per two Suite passes
· Pre-Race pit passes (Saturday and Sunday only) allowing guests access to pit road until 1 hour prior to track activity
· Event souvenirs Friday and Saturday
· Sunday souvenir race program
Inside the luxury suite, guests will find:
· Closed-circuit televisions
· Private restrooms
· Catering for breakfast, buffet lunch and beverages (water, soda, wine and beer)
· Cash bar available
Each Individual Suite Package is $700 and available by calling the Talladega Superspeedway Ticket Office at 1-877-Go2-DEGA, (1-877-462-3342).(TSS)(4-5-2010)
The No-Hassle 'DEGA Infield Experience: Race fans that want the experience of the Talladega Superspeedway Infield without the hassle of renting or bringing an RV for the weekend are in luck. Talladega Superspeedway introduced an all-inclusive premium RV package. Race fans that purchase the package will have their very own luxury motorhome awaiting them on Wednesday of race weekend. The motorhome will be stationed in the conveniently located Turn 4 Motorhome Park and includes everything four people need to enjoy a weekend at 'DEGA.
The package includes:
· Delivery/removal and setup of one luxury motorhome for entertainment and lodging use at Talladega Superspeedway, Wednesday - Sunday.
· Reserved 25x50 RV space in the Turn 4 Motorhome Park
· Early infield entry on Wednesday.
· Four (4) infield passes for infield access Wednesday - Sunday.
· Two (2) infield vehicle access/parking passes
· Four (4) pre-race pit passes for Sunday's Aaron's 499
· Four (4) souvenir race programs
· Daily water and pumping service
· On-site concierge service
· On-site mechanical service personnel
"A demand has been building at Talladega Superspeedway for a turnkey camping package," said Talladega Superspeedway Chairman Grant Lynch. "We are excited to offer a convenient solution for our fans that want a carefree weekend at Talladega." Pricing for the premium RV package is $5,800 and requires a $1,000 refundable deposit. For more information, contact Motacha Blackerby in the Talladega Superspeedway Ticket Office at 256-761-4747. For more information on tickets to Talladega Superspeedway, please visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(4-1-2010)
Easter Egg Hunt At Talladega Set For Saturday, April 3: The Easter Bunny is returning to NASCAR's Most Competitive Track on Saturday, April 3 for the track's Sixth Annual Easter Egg Hunt in the infield. Open to children age 1-10, this free event is fun-filled for the whole family. The Easter Bunny will start the event by judging the Easter Basket competition and pose for pictures with the children. The winner of the Easter Basket competition will get a special prize this year, a 3-foot stuffed Lucky Dog provided by Aaron's. When it's time to hunt for eggs, kids will find that 17,500 plastic eggs stuffed with candy and prizes have been hidden throughout the infield. 50 eggs have special prize slips for an 18-inch stuffed Lucky Dog redeemable at the Aaron's tent. Many other eggs have been stuffed with prize slips for Talladega Superspeedway merchandise, redeemable at the Talladega Superspeedway TOW Unit. "This will be our largest Easter Egg Hunt to date," said Talladega Superspeedway Chairman Grant Lynch. "Each year we have increased the number of eggs we hide and the number of activities we have during the day. And, each year, more and more guests show their support for the track and attend ready to hunt eggs. We look forward to welcoming everyone for the day and making it our best Easter Egg Hunt yet."
A detailed list of events follows:
* Easter Basket Contest - Kids are encouraged to decorate their own Easter baskets and arrive with them ready for judging! Everyone should arrive a little early in order to park, because the Easter Basket Contest will be held as soon as the event begins at 10 a.m.
* Egg Hunts By Age Group - The hunt for prize-filled eggs will begin at 10:30 a.m. for kids age 1 through 3. Then at 10:45 a.m., kids age 4 through 6 will participate in a hunt, followed by kids age 7 through 10 at 11:00 a.m.
* Visit With The Easter Bunny- The Easter Bunny will be available to pose for pictures with eager egg hunters during the event.
* Face Painting - Face painters from Starshine Faces will be ready to create miniature masterpieces on the cheeks of all who visit.
* Refreshments - Two of Talladega Superspeedway's official sponsors, Pepsi and Golden Flake, will provide refreshments and snacks.
* Prizes- Talladega Superspeedway sponsor Aaron's will have a display with prizes for the Easter Basket contest and the Easter Egg Hunt, plus handouts to be given away throughout the day.
* Displays and Games -Talladega Superspeedway Pace Cars, the Talladega On Wheels promotions vehicle, displays from the International Motorsports Hall of Fame, Dodge trucks and cars and various other special vehicles utilized by the track will be on display for all to enjoy.
For more information on tickets to Talladega Superspeedway, please visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(3-28-2010)
Talladega Superspeedway Takes the Headache Out of Tailgating: Race fans can leave the table and chairs at home when they attend the Aaron's Dream Weekend, April 23-25. Talladega Superspeedway is taking care of it all in the Pepsi Max Tailgate Zone. The Pepsi Max Tailgate Zone is an all-inclusive package for race fans featuring:
· A reserved tailgate area that includes the use of a 10x10 tent, table and chairs
· A premium parking pass
· Use of a portable generator provided by Honda Generators
· Four reserved grandstand tickets to the Aaron's 499 on Sunday, April 25
The Pepsi Max Tailgate Zone will also feature tailgate activities and contests with prizes from Pepsi Max and other participating partners. The area is located directly behind the Gadsden Grandstands, just steps away from all the action. The Pepsi Max Tailgate Zone package is $299 and available by calling the Talladega Superspeedway Ticket Office at 1-877-Go2-DEGA or visiting the website at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(3-22-2010)
Spoiler test at Talladega on Tuesday: TODAY: Sprint Cup Series teams will assemble on Tuesday, March 16 for an important early-season test at Talladega Superspeedway. Approximately 24 teams are expected to participate in the one-day session, which will target a number of mechanical options in advance of the Aaron's 499 on Sunday, April 25 at Talladega. NASCAR Sprint Cup officials will analyze the data gleaned - along with teams' input - and later make several key decisions for the Aaron's 499. Teams also will test spoilers, which will replace the current wings on the backs of cars. No timetable has been set for the wing-to-spoiler move. Rule changes, announced on Jan. 21, are the impetus behind the test. NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams used larger carburetor restrictor-plate openings in the 2010 Daytona 500 and larger plate openings are expected for the Aaron's 499 at Talladega. The switch from wing to spoiler also was a rule change. The wing replaced the traditional stock-car spoiler on NASCAR's new car, now in its third fulltime season. Returning to the spoiler means on-track testing, and another series test - Tuesday, March 23 and Wednesday, March 24 at Charlotte Motor Speedway - will be devoted solely to spoiler work. Both the Charlotte and Talladega tests are exceptions to the current testing policy. Next Tuesday's Talladega session begins at 9 a.m. CT and runs until 5 p.m. CT with a noon-1 p.m. lunch break. Fans are welcome to attend, with free admission. The track's Gadsden and Lincoln grandstands only will be open, with parking lots behind those grandstands opening at 8:30 a.m. Grandstand gates open at 8:45 a.m. Grandstands close at 5:15 p.m.(NASCAR PR)
According to the Talladega Speedway Facebook page , the following teams are currently confirmed for the test (some teams may use test drivers): #00-Reutimann, #5-Martin, #11-Hamlin, #14-Stewart, #17-Kenseth, #18-Gilliland [testing for Busch], #20-Logano, #24-Gordon, #29-Harvick, #31-Burton, #39-Newman, #48-Johnson, #56-Truex, Jr., #66-Blaney, #88-Earnhardt, Jr., and a Roush R&D team.(3-12-2010)
UDPATE: NASCAR will use restrictor plates with larger holes than they have used in the past at Talladega Superspeedway Tuesday as its Sprint Cup teams test the new spoiler that is expected to replace the rear wing in a few weeks. The test will not only help teams figure out setups for the new spoiler but help NASCAR evaluate which restrictor plate to use with the new configuration. The test Tuesday is the first open test for Sprint Cup teams with the spoiler, and they likely will start with a restrictor plate with holes of 1-1/32 inches (66/64ths) - 7/64ths of an inch more than the plates used last October and 3/64ths larger than the plate used for this year's Daytona 500. The spoiler is expected to replace the wing starting with the March 28 race at Martinsville Speedway, although NASCAR has not announced a firm start date yet. The spoiler will definitely be in use, however, for the April 25 race at Talladega. Most teams are expected to attend the test. But not all teams are going as Richard Petty Motorsports is only sending Paul Menard and Roush Fenway Racing is only sending Matt Kenseth and David Ragan. Teams will fabricate their own spoilers for the test, but NASCAR will end up issuing teams the spoilers for the races. Richardson Racing Products will be making the spoilers and they should be ready for the March 23-24 test at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Darby said. In addition to replacing the wing with the spoiler, the rear quarter panel of the cars will be extended by four inches from the front edge, leaving only seven inches instead of 11 between the ground and the front edge of the rear quarter panel.(Scene Daily)(3-16-2010)
Kurt Busch, Burton and John Darby to speak to fans during Talladega test: Kurt Busch and Jeff Burton will take time during their lunch break to speak to race fans during the March 16 test session at Talladega Superspeedway. Joining the drivers will be NASCAR Managing Director of Competition, John Darby. The test will give fans their first glimpse of NASCAR Sprint Cup Series cars circling the track using the new spoiler while NASCAR confirms the restrictor plate size and gear ratio for the Aaron's 499 race on April 25. It will also give fans the opportunity to experience the renovated frontstretch grandstands. Parking lots open at 8:30 with the test officially kicking off at 9 am. The event is free to the public and food and beverages will be permitted.(Talladega PR)(3-11-2010)
Humphrey Named ISC Managing Director of Business Operations: International Speedway Corporation announced it has named Rick Humphrey as Managing Director of Business Operations. Humphrey accepts the role from his most recent position as president of Talladega Superspeedway. W. Grant Lynch Jr., Chairman of Talladega Superspeedway and Vice President of Strategic Projects for ISC, will assume the responsibilities for day to day operation of the facility. Humphrey, 41, is a 16-year veteran in the motorsports industry, serving most recently as president of Talladega Superspeedway since July 2007. As president, he worked closely with the facility's more than 50 employees to secure, maintain and operate the 2.66-mile, 3,000-plus acre complex, and presided over a significant number of upgrades and enhancements to the legendary race track. In his new role, Humphrey will be primarily responsible for driving operational excellence across all ISC racetracks through benchmarking, innovation and best practice sharing. In addition, he will provide leadership for ISC's Green initiatives. (Talladega PR)(3-11-2010)
Test at Talladega Open To The Public: Talladega Superspeedway officials announced that the NASCAR Test Session on March 16 will be open to the public. This will give fans their first glimpse of NASCAR Sprint Cup Series cars circling the track using the new spoiler while confirming the restrictor plate size and gear ratio for the Aaron's 499 race on April 25. It will also give fans the opportunity to experience the renovated frontstretch grandstands. Parking lots open at 8:30 am with the test officially kicking off at 9:00 am. The event is free to the public and food and beverages will be permitted. For questions on permissible items ot tickets for the 2010 Aaron's Dream Weekend, please contact the Talladega Superspeedway Ticket Office at 1-877-Go2-DEGA or www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(2-24-2010)
Workers Progressing on Installation of 18,000 New Seats at Talladega: Workers have begun installing the first of over 18,000 new seats at Talladega Superspeedway in anticipation of the April 23-25 Aaron's Dream Weekend. Crews continue to pour concrete and lay the foundations for the new seats, while other crews put the finishing touches on completed portions. It's a coordinated effort that has proved successful since the beginning of the project last November. Once complete, the entire grandstand project will have used enough concrete to pour the foundations for over 300 single-family homes. There is approximately 24,000 feet of caulked joints in the job. That's over 4.5 miles of caulking, or enough to lay a ½ -inch strip around the track 1.5 times. There are over 42 miles of reinforcing steel embedded in the concrete foundations. There will be nearly a mile of handrails in the new grandstands. Tickets in the freshly renovated frontstretch grandstands start at just $60 for the April 25 Aaron's 499. Several tower sections have seen their ticket prices reduced to $95, while the Allison grandstands offer the most affordable admission with a $49 two-day ticket. For more information on tickets to Talladega Superspeedway, please visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(2-11-2010)
Gossage Dons University Of Alabama Hat While Raising Talladega Flag At TMS: Less than 12 hours after the University of Texas' 37-21 loss to the University of Alabama in the BCS National Championship Game, Texas Motor Speedway President Eddie Gossage was feeling the sting of the defeat once again.
Despite freezing temperatures in the teens and high winds, Gossage settled his bet with Talladega Superspeedway President Rick Humphrey on Friday morning as he
personally raised the Alabama speedway's flag in front of the Texas Motor Speedway administration building. Gossage, donning a University of Alabama ball cap, was hoisted up on a scissor lift to the top of the 25-foot flag pole, where he hung the Talladega Superspeedway flag alongside the flags of the United States, state of Texas and Texas Motor Speedway. As part of the bet, the Talladega flag will fly throughout the weekend. Gossage also had a small, wooden University of Alabama gnome on hand to serve as a stand-in for Humphrey, who was not in attendance for the "ceremony."
In keeping with the tradition of state versus state bets and offering up a special fare from the loser's locale, Gossage also will be sending Humphrey and his staff Sonny Bryan's Smokehouse beef brisket next week to celebrate the victory. "I'm very excited to know that the Talladega Superspeedway flag is flying over Texas Motor Speedway," Humphrey said. "But more importantly, I'm excited for the University of Alabama and the pride that a national championship brings to our state. I love Talladega Speedway and I love the Alabama Crimson Tide. Today is a great day for both of us." See images and a video at the texasmotorspeedway.com website. Tickets can be purchased for TMS races online at www.texasmotorspeedway.com or by calling (817) 215-8500 and for Talladega visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TMS/TSS)(1-8-2010)
University of Alabama vs. University of Texas Has Trackside Implications: A friendly wager between Talladega Superspeedway President Rick Humphrey and Texas Motor Speedway President Eddie Gossage hinges on the outcome of the BCS Championship Game between the University of Alabama Crimson Tide and the University of Texas Longhorns [Thursday, Jan. 7th on ABC at 8:00pm/et]. Up for grabs? A weekend's worth of bragging rights as the winning track's flag flies over the loser's track and a tasty meal for the victorious track. (Talladega is supplying Dreamland Ribs in the unlikely event of a Longhorns victory, while Texas is offering a shipment of Sonny Bryan's Smokehouse beef brisket). The loser not only will have to swallow his pride but also proudly fly the flag of the winning speedway on their property beginning Friday morning and throughout the weekend. The losing track president also will have to don a golf shirt and hat of the winning team.
"I look forward to seeing photos of the Talladega Superspeedway flag flying over Texas Motor Speedway after the Tide rolls over the Longhorns," said Humphrey. "I may even have to call Eddie on Friday morning and play the 'Bama fight song for him as he hoists our flag wearing an Alabama shirt and hat. Our staff is looking forward to dining on some delicious Texas beef for lunch next week while we revel in another national championship for the University of Alabama. This has all the makings of a very good week."
"I'm always up for a good bet," Gossage said. "I think Rick will look great in burnt orange and the Texas Motor Speedway flag will look great flying over Talladega Superspeedway. As his former boss, I think he owes me a good meal and those Dreamland ribs will be perfect."(Talladega SuperSpeedway PR / Texas Motor Speedway PR)(1-7-2010)
2009 News
Phase-one Demolition of Talladega Grandstands Complete: Phase-one demolition of Talladega Superspeedway's frontstretch grandstands is now complete. Crews have already begun preparations to pour the concrete foundations for new seats and wider aisles. More than half of the stadium's grandstand will be replaced in time for the April 25, 2010 Aaron's 499.
Talladega Superspeedway officials joined the staff of WTDR Thunder 92.7 FM to raise $13,700 during the thirteenth annual Bake A Christmas fundraiser Friday, Dec. 11. That number is expected to increase slightly as donations and last minute purchases continue to trickle into the station. The money raised will be used to provide Christmas gifts to less fortunate children throughout the track's surrounding region. Members of the Talladega Superspeedway and Thunder 92.7 staff encouraged listeners and race fans to bid on one-of-a-kind race packages on-air, while donations of baked goods, racing memorabilia and other items such as gift certificates from local merchants, flowed in throughout the day.
For more information on tickets to Talladega Superspeedway, please visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(12-18-2009)
Buy A Ticket To Talladega This Friday and Help A Needy Child: In the spirit of the holiday season, Talladega Superspeedway is offering a chance to both help out local area children in need and give the gift of racing for that special someone in your life. This Friday, December 11th from 7 a.m. till 6 p.m., 10% of each ticket purchased from www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or 1-877-Go2-DEGA will go to the Bake A Christmas charity auction and fundraiser for area children in need. Items for the radio auction on WTDR Thunder 92.7 FM have also been pouring from NASCAR teams and drivers in recent days. Throughout the day, members of the Thunder 92.7 FM and Talladega Superspeedway staff take over the airwaves to auction unique racing memorabilia and experiences paired with delicious baked goods donated by individuals and businesses in the community. The auction begins at 7 a.m. and ends at approximately 6 p.m. When a listener places a bid and wins an item, they are invited to pick up their auction item and baked goods at the station's Oxford, Ala. office. Those who wish to participate in Bake A Christmas but do not live in the immediate listening area may tune into the station's broadcast all day via live streaming audio available at www.wtdrthunder.com. Bids can be made toll-free nationwide by calling 1-800-709-9270.(TSS)(12-10-2009)
Demolition of Talladega Grandstands Steadily Progressing: Crews are steadily progressing on the demolition of Talladega Superspeedway's frontstretch grandstands as part of a two-phase $13-million grandstand renovation project. More than half of the stadium's grandstand will be replaced with larger seats and wider aisles in time for the April 25, 2010 Aaron's 499. The remaining seats will be replaced in time for the Oct. 31, 2010 AMP Energy 500. The demolition process is completed in four steps, with crews working simultaneously to cut out the old seats, remove any old hardware, break up the concrete and finally remove the debris. Soon crews will follow behind the current demolition crew and begin laying forms and pouring new concrete for the aisles and seat platforms. The old seats will be sold as a set of 4 for $99 and come with a certificate of authenticity. Only 1,000 sets will be sold. Purchases can be made at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com/My1969DegaSeats. All sets are sold as-is and must be picked up. No seats will be shipped. For more information on tickets to Talladega Superspeedway, please visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(11-24-2009)
Talladega announces renovations; new ticket prices: Immediately following the AMP Energy 500, construction crews will descend on Talladega Superspeedway and begin work on a two-phase $13-million grandstand renovation project. More than half of the stadium's grandstand will be replaced with larger seats and wider aisles in time for the April 25, 2010 Aaron's 499. The remaining seats will be replaced in time for the Oct. 31, 2010 AMP Energy 500. Accompanying the renovations is a new pricing structure for many Talladega seat locations. Single-day seats in the Gadsden, Lincoln, Anniston and Talladega Towers have been reduced to $95 from $120. Two-day tickets in the Allison Grandstands, one of the best values in all of motorsports, have been further reduced to $49 from $60. Race fans will also find new lower prices on certain infield camping locations. Phase One of the renovation project will span from the Gadsden grandstands in Turn Four through section C of the OV Hill South grandstands in the Tri-oval. New 21-inch seats with armrests and cupholders will replace the current 17-inch seats and seat aisles will also be widened to 48 inches from 36. Grandstand renovations also include the building of new premium level seats and additional ADA seating at the top of various sections. New semi-ambulatory seats will also be spread throughout the stadium to accommodate fans.(TSS PR)(11-1-2009)
Racing for Wildlife preserves Talladega mountain ridge: Racing for Wildlife, a organization spearheaded by NASCAR driver Ryan Newman to preserve land for hunting, fishing and other outdoors activities, announced its first property acquisition this weekend at Talladega Superspeedway. The 1,100 acres along the eight-mile ridge of Rebecca Mountain in the Talladega National Forest will allow the U.S. Forest Service to complete a portion of the Pinhoti Trail, which connects Rebecca Mountain to the Appalachian Trail in Georgia. The property will be available for hiking, camping and recreation.(Alabama Live)(11-1-2009)
82nd Airborne Chorus performing National Anthem at Talladega: The 82nd Airborne Division's "All-American" Chorus from Ft. Bragg, N.C., will perform the national anthem prior to the AMP Energy 500 at Talladega Superspeedway. Jeff Dubiel, Vice President of Sports for Pepsi-Cola North America Beverages will give the drivers' command as Grand Marshal and Ken Strnad, Senior Marketing Manager, AMP Energy Brand Team, will wave the green flag as Honorary Starter. The primary mission of the 82nd's Chorus is serving the soldiers of the U.S. Army and Fort Bragg. However, their dynamic performances have led to an increased demand for them to perform throughout the continental United States. Appearing in their maroon berets and ascots, the troopers of the "All-American" Chorus are truly ambassadors for the 82nd Airborne Division and the United States Army.(TSS)(10-29-2009)
Talladega Offering Kids Meal For AMP Energy 500 Weekend: Talladega Superspeedway officials announced a special kid's meal package that will be offered during the AMP Energy 500 weekend. The package consists of a Smucker's Uncrustable peanut butter and jelly sandwich, cookie and juice box and includes an activity pad with crayons. The meal is a deal at only $4. Families will find great deals on attending Talladega's Friday and Saturday events as well. Children 11 and under are admitted free of charge to the General Admission grandstands with a paid adult. There will be numerous activities for children during the HALLOW-DEGA festivities as well. A costume contests, pumpkin seed-spitting contest, haunted maze and hall of mirror are just a few of the many activities. Tickets are still available to the Oct. 30 - Nov.1 AMP Energy 500 weekend. To purchase, call 1-877-Go2-DEGA or visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(10-27-2009)
Own A Piece of Talladega Superspeedway History: Race fans that want to bring home a piece of historic Talladega Superspeedway will have that opportunity immediately following the 2009 AMP Energy 500. As part of a massive frontstretch grandstand renovation, the track is selling a limited number of original seats from the inaugural 1969 Talladega 500. "Ever since we announced our grandstand renovation project, our fans have inquired about purchasing the old seats," said Talladega Superspeeedway President Rick Humphrey. "We are offering a limited number, so anyone that wants to own a piece of history needs to act fast." The seats will be sold as a set of 4 for $99 and comes with a certificate of authenticity. Only 1,000 sets will be sold. Purchases can be made at www.talladegasuperspeedway.com/My1969DegaSeats. All sets are sold as-is and must be picked up. No seats will be shipped. Tickets prices start as low as $40 for the AMP Energy 500. To order, call 1-877-Go2-DEGA or visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(10-26-2009)
Creek Medicine Man Restores Balance To Talladega: Strange occurrences and urban legends have swirled around Talladega Superspeedway since its inception forty years ago. But instead of focusing on rumors and myths during its Halloween race weekend, the historic track turned to a much more symbolic and meaningful ceremony to prepare for welcoming thousands of race fans. Creek Medicine Man Robert Thrower performed a traditional Native American blessing ceremony today on the start-finish line and asked for balance to be restored to the land. "Most everything in Native American belief is about keeping balance," said Thrower. "Sometimes people and places can get out of balance and that unbalance may be perceived as something bad. What we did today was bless the track and ask for reconciliation so that balance can be restored. " Thrower comes from the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. He has been a traditional medicine man for nine years, and his family has a long history of performing traditional medicine. His great-grandmother was the last tribal medicine woman. The ceremony was opened with Thrower offering a prayer in his native Muscogee language. He then asked for reconciliation and the restoration of balance while burning a collection of ceremonial offerings in a small bowl. The ceremony was then closed with another prayer. Tickets prices start as low as $40 for the AMP Energy 500. To order, call 1-877-Go2-DEGA or visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(10-24-2009)
Fan Activities For HALLOW-DEGA Announced: Talladega Superspeedway announced a list of HALLOW-DEGA fan activities set for the AMP Energy 500 weekend, Oct. 30 - Nov.1. "Our plans are coming together for the World's Largest Halloween Party," said Talladega Superspeedway President Rick Humphrey. "Best of all, there will be something for everyone. We have activities for the kids and parents too."
Activities for Saturday, Oct. 31 include:
· The SPEED Scream Contest on the SPEED stage
· The Sprint Costume Contest in the Sprint display
· A haunted maze located in the display area
· A fortune teller that will peer into the future
· A wax hands interactive display
· A Pumpkin Seed Spitting Contest in the display area
· Halloween characters roaming throughout the display area
· A hall of mirrors and much more
For information on attending HALLOW-DEGA, visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(10-22-2009)
Talladega raises catchfence: UPDATE Daytona too: As a safety precaution to protect fans and competitors, Talladega Superspeedway extended the height of its frontstretch catch fence by eight feet, president Rick Humphrey told ESPN.com Monday. The decision was made in reaction to a horrific accident on the final lap of the Aaron's 499 Sprint Cup race on April 29, which sent Carl Edwards' Ford airborne into the previous fencing and sent debris spraying into the grandstands. The fence held up in the crash but was destroyed, creating concern about fan safety at the high-speed 2.66-mile venue. Humphrey and his staff hired an outside engineering firm to survey the damage. It was recommended that the fence height be extended. It stood 14 feet in April. It now stands 22 feet, and the top bows out over the track surface. There are other enhancements to the fence, too, though Humphrey said he is not at liberty to discuss them. "The engineering team we consulted with has that information," he said. "It is proprietary information that they've provided to us. They're okay with the height, that's something to the naked eye you'll certainly be able to see. There are other variables you can't get into."(ESPN.com)(10-6-2009)
Talladega Offering Online Renewal Rights Transfer: For the first time ever, race fans can buy or sell "renewal rights" on their seat locations or their reserved overnight park camping space at Talladega Superspeedway. The new partnership with SeasonTicketRights.com allows race fans to transfer their renewal rights online via the Talladega Superspeedway Transfer Marketplace. Once transferred, the renewal rights on seat or overnight park locations are permanently transferred to the new account holder. The new account holder will then receive all future invoices and correspondence from Talladega. The Talladega Superspeedway Transfer Marketplace is available at http://talladega.seasonticketrights.com.(Talladega Superspeedway PR)(9-26-2009)
Talladega Superspeedway Fan Appreciation Day a success:As early as 8:00am on Sunday, fans were lining up in front of Talladega Superspeedway to take their vehicles on a lap around the 2.66 mile tri-oval during Fan Appreciation Day. Officials estimate 12,000 fans attended the event. Some came from as far away as Indiana and Florida, but all left with a story to tell. "This was payback to my dad," said Mike McAnally from Gulf Shores, Ala. "Dad used to be a sheriff and worked security at the races a long time ago. When I was about 10, dad got to do a track drive like this. I remember when we went into Turn One I got scared and made him stop. When I got my track ride voucher for attending the Aaron's 499, I called him up and told him he was going to get a chance to drive Talladega again."
Jack Wilson of Tennyson, Ind. said he and his wife made the drive to Talladega just to take their new Corvette around the track. "I was hoping they would really let me open her up," said Wilson. "But they had a truck pacing everyone. It was still worth the trip just to experience going around those turns. We had a good time."
After taking their turn driving around the track, fans enjoyed lunch provided by Talladega Superspeedway, Pepsi and Golden Flake, a Q&A and autograph signing with Richard Brickhouse, Dave Marcis, Sterling Marlin and track president Rick Humphrey and a free concert by Darryl Worley. Tickets are still available for the upcoming Oct. 30 - Nov. 1 AMP Energy 500 Weekend. The AMP Energy 500 is Race Number Seven in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup and a critical factor in determining the 2009 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion.(TSS)(9-22-2009)
MRO Concerts Announced For Talladega Overnight Parks: Motor Racing Outreach (MRO) has announced a four band lineup to play in several Talladega Superspeedway overnight parks. "MRO always does a great job securing bands to play in our overnight parks," said Talladega Superspeedway President Rick Humphrey. "The concerts are always a big hit with our fans. We still have limited availability in our reserved parks, so I would encourage everyone that plans on attending the AMP Energy 500 weekend to reserve their spaces now."
OVERNIGHT PARK Concerts: Open to overnight park customers
West B - Who So Ever (Friday and Saturday, 8 - 11 p.m.)
Family - The River (Friday and Saturday, 8 - 11 p.m.)
West C - Renaissance (Friday and Saturday, 8 - 11 p.m.)
North Park - Trackside the Band (Friday and Saturday, 8 - 11 p.m.)
For information on attending call 1-877-Go2-DEGA or visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS PR)(8-29-2009)
Darryl Worley performing at Talladega Superspeedway Fan Appreciation Day: Country music star Darryl Worley is set to perform a two-hour concert at the Talladega Superspeedway Fan Appreciation Day on Sept 20, thanks to BamaJam Productions, a division of Ronnie Gilley Entertainment. Worley is the latest addition to a day already teeming with fan activities. Talladega Superspeedway President Rick Humphrey is part of the entertainment for the day as well, as he is hosting a Q&A session with Richard Brickhouse, winner of the inaugural Talladega 500 (now the AMP Energy 500). Ticket buyers to either of the two NASCAR Sprint Cup Series events at Talladega, the Aaron's 499 in the spring or upcoming AMP Energy 500, will be given the opportunity to drive their cars around the track on paced laps. And all guests attending the Appreciation Day will also receive $2 off tickets to the International Motorsports Hall of Fame and Museum. Fan Appreciation Day is free and open to the public.(TSS PR)(8-26-2009)
Talladega Offering Garage Tours: Talladega Superspeedway is offering race fans attending the Mountain Dew 250 fueled by Fred's NASCAR Camping World Truck Series a guided tour of the Truck Series garage, an infield grandstand seat overlooking pit road and catered breakfast, lunch and beverages (soda water & beer) are all included in the $125 Saturday Miller Lite Paddock Club offer. Sunday Paddock Club ticket buyers can buy Saturday passes at a discounted rate of $100 per package. For information on hospitality packages and/or tickets, visit talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA.(TSS)(8-25-2009)
Overnight Parks Available at Talladega: Talladega Superspeedway has overnight park availability for race fans wanting to spend Hallow-Dega weekend at the track, including limited spaces in the historic infield. All reserved overnight parks outside the track open at 8am on Tuesday of race week (October 27) and must be cleared by 11am Monday following the race. Guests will be required to show their race tickets and parking pass prior to entry and a valid ticket must be shown each time for admission. Overnight park reservations can be made by calling the Talladega Superspeedway Ticket Office at 1-877-Go2-DEGA or by visiting www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.(TSS)(7-27-2009)
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