Atlanta Motor Speedway: Difference between revisions
Citation bot (talk | contribs) Altered title. Removed parameters. | Use this bot. Report bugs. | Suggested by AManWithNoPlan | Category:CS1 maint: url-status | #UCB_Category 284/1592 |
m Sp |
||
Line 92: | Line 92: | ||
=== First years === |
=== First years === |
||
The first tests on the facility were ran by [[Jack Smith (American racing driver, born 1924)|Jack Smith]] on July 10, with Smith being told to [[Sandbagging (racing)|sandbag]] the session.<ref>{{Cite news |date=July 11, 1960 |title=Smith Goes Light, Hits 114 in Trial |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-smith-goes-ligh/144245735/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328234922/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-smith-goes-ligh/144245735/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 28, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Constitution]] |pages=12 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> The facility officially opened to teams on July 25 for pre-race activities for the [[1960 Dixie 300]]; however, the track saw immediate problems. Purcell ordered the fixing of a seven-foot flaw "between the straightaway and the pits" the same day,<ref name=":08">{{Cite news |last=Thomy |first=Al |date=July 26, 1960 |title=Lester Re-elected AIR Prexy; Dixie 300 Trials Wednesday |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-lester-re-elect/144326493/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330214531/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-lester-re-elect/144326493/ |archive-date=March 30, 2024 |access-date=March 30, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Constitution]] |pages=26 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> with no protective guardrails were installed.<ref name=":09">{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=July 27, 1960 |title=Flock: 'This Is What I Know' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-flock-this-is-what/144439272/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330213025/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-flock-this-is-what/144439272/ |archive-date=March 30, 2024 |access-date=March 30, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Journal]] |pages=18 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> Rain plagued the track on the 28th, with "a bad bump in the middle groove of the first turn" being reported by drivers.<ref name=":010">{{Cite news |last=Thomy |first=Al |date=July 29, 1960 |title=Drivers Pronounce AIR Track Fast |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-drivers-pronoun/144410933/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330213026/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-drivers-pronoun/144410933/ |archive-date=March 30, 2024 |access-date=March 30, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Constitution]] |pages=43 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> To run the race, track executive Alf Lester hired 17 high school football players for a week.<ref name=":7222728">{{Cite news |last=Cunningham |first=George |date=March 17, 1976 |title=Perils of Pauline |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-perils-of-pauli/144986069/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408053918/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-perils-of-pauli/144986069/ |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Constitution]] |pages=1D, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-perils-of-pauli/144986074/ 6D] |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> The race itself did not produce any major problems in the track,<ref name=":011">{{Cite news |last=Bisher |first=Furman |date=August 1, 1960 |title=Defeat for a Little Man |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-defeat-for-a-little/144440679/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330213024/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-defeat-for-a-little/144440679/ |archive-date=March 30, 2024 |access-date=March 30, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Journal]] |pages=16 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> with a crowd of 25,000 witnessing [[Fireball Roberts|Edwin "Fireball" Roberts]] winning the inaugural race.<ref name=":012">{{Cite news |last=Thomy |first=Al |date=August 1, 1960 |title=Roberts Fireballs His Way To Torrid Dixie 300 Win |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-roberts-firebal/144411230/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330214533/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-roberts-firebal/144411230/ |archive-date=March 30, 2024 |access-date=March 30, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Constitution]] |pages=13, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-roberts-firebal/144411244/ 14] |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> The victory was disputed by numerous drivers, most notably runner-up [[Cotton Owens]] who accused NASCAR officials of a scoring error.<ref name=":013">{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=August 1, 1960 |title='I'll Go To My Grave Saying I Won' – Owens |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-ill-go-to-my-grave/144411274/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330214530/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-ill-go-to-my-grave/144411274/ |archive-date=March 30, 2024 |access-date=March 30, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Journal]] |pages=16, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-ill-go-to-my-grave/144411287/ 19] |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> Bisher later criticized the facility, stating that "[nothing] was ready, there was dirt everywhere. It was like a county fair in the [[boondocks]]".<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Auchmutey |first=Jim |date=September 1, 2010 |title=Checkered History |url=https://www.atlantamagazine.com/great-reads/atlanta-motor-speedway-turns-50/ |url-status=live |access-date=April 4, 2024 |website=[[Atlanta Magazine]] |language=en-US |archive-date=April 5, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240405055512/https://www.atlantamagazine.com/great-reads/atlanta-motor-speedway-turns-50/ }}</ref> Two weeks later, another annual NASCAR-sanctioned race, the [[Atlanta 500]], was confirmed to be |
The first tests on the facility were ran by [[Jack Smith (American racing driver, born 1924)|Jack Smith]] on July 10, with Smith being told to [[Sandbagging (racing)|sandbag]] the session.<ref>{{Cite news |date=July 11, 1960 |title=Smith Goes Light, Hits 114 in Trial |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-smith-goes-ligh/144245735/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328234922/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-smith-goes-ligh/144245735/ |archive-date=March 28, 2024 |access-date=March 28, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Constitution]] |pages=12 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> The facility officially opened to teams on July 25 for pre-race activities for the [[1960 Dixie 300]]; however, the track saw immediate problems. Purcell ordered the fixing of a seven-foot flaw "between the straightaway and the pits" the same day,<ref name=":08">{{Cite news |last=Thomy |first=Al |date=July 26, 1960 |title=Lester Re-elected AIR Prexy; Dixie 300 Trials Wednesday |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-lester-re-elect/144326493/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330214531/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-lester-re-elect/144326493/ |archive-date=March 30, 2024 |access-date=March 30, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Constitution]] |pages=26 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> with no protective guardrails were installed.<ref name=":09">{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=July 27, 1960 |title=Flock: 'This Is What I Know' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-flock-this-is-what/144439272/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330213025/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-flock-this-is-what/144439272/ |archive-date=March 30, 2024 |access-date=March 30, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Journal]] |pages=18 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> Rain plagued the track on the 28th, with "a bad bump in the middle groove of the first turn" being reported by drivers.<ref name=":010">{{Cite news |last=Thomy |first=Al |date=July 29, 1960 |title=Drivers Pronounce AIR Track Fast |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-drivers-pronoun/144410933/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330213026/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-drivers-pronoun/144410933/ |archive-date=March 30, 2024 |access-date=March 30, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Constitution]] |pages=43 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> To run the race, track executive Alf Lester hired 17 high school football players for a week.<ref name=":7222728">{{Cite news |last=Cunningham |first=George |date=March 17, 1976 |title=Perils of Pauline |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-perils-of-pauli/144986069/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408053918/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-perils-of-pauli/144986069/ |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Constitution]] |pages=1D, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-perils-of-pauli/144986074/ 6D] |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> The race itself did not produce any major problems in the track,<ref name=":011">{{Cite news |last=Bisher |first=Furman |date=August 1, 1960 |title=Defeat for a Little Man |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-defeat-for-a-little/144440679/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330213024/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-defeat-for-a-little/144440679/ |archive-date=March 30, 2024 |access-date=March 30, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Journal]] |pages=16 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> with a crowd of 25,000 witnessing [[Fireball Roberts|Edwin "Fireball" Roberts]] winning the inaugural race.<ref name=":012">{{Cite news |last=Thomy |first=Al |date=August 1, 1960 |title=Roberts Fireballs His Way To Torrid Dixie 300 Win |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-roberts-firebal/144411230/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330214533/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-roberts-firebal/144411230/ |archive-date=March 30, 2024 |access-date=March 30, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Constitution]] |pages=13, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-roberts-firebal/144411244/ 14] |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> The victory was disputed by numerous drivers, most notably runner-up [[Cotton Owens]] who accused NASCAR officials of a scoring error.<ref name=":013">{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=August 1, 1960 |title='I'll Go To My Grave Saying I Won' – Owens |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-ill-go-to-my-grave/144411274/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330214530/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-ill-go-to-my-grave/144411274/ |archive-date=March 30, 2024 |access-date=March 30, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Journal]] |pages=16, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-ill-go-to-my-grave/144411287/ 19] |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> Bisher later criticized the facility, stating that "[nothing] was ready, there was dirt everywhere. It was like a county fair in the [[boondocks]]".<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Auchmutey |first=Jim |date=September 1, 2010 |title=Checkered History |url=https://www.atlantamagazine.com/great-reads/atlanta-motor-speedway-turns-50/ |url-status=live |access-date=April 4, 2024 |website=[[Atlanta Magazine]] |language=en-US |archive-date=April 5, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240405055512/https://www.atlantamagazine.com/great-reads/atlanta-motor-speedway-turns-50/ }}</ref> Two weeks later, another annual NASCAR-sanctioned race, the [[Atlanta 500]], was confirmed to be run in late October.<ref name=":73322">{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=August 13, 1960 |title=AIR Faces Fight In Control Row |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-faces-fight-in-c/144441880/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240401184656/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-faces-fight-in-c/144441880/ |archive-date=April 1, 2024 |access-date=March 31, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Journal]] |pages=7 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> |
||
On the same day, a attempt to overthrow Lester by an opposing stockholder group led by T. Walker Jackson and A. E. Deermont was formed because they felt that "Lester is not doing a good job".<ref name=":733222">{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=August 17, 1960 |title=Opponents Force AIR Proxy Fight |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-opponents-force-air/144441913/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240401184658/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-opponents-force-air/144441913/ |archive-date=April 1, 2024 |access-date=March 31, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Journal]] |pages=22 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> Lester, who was facing his second attempt to overthrow him during his tenure, angrily stated that if he was overthrown, leadership would have to pay off an insurmountable $562,000 mortgage payment.<ref name=":73322" /> A vote was scheduled for September 10, with Jackson claiming that their group had enough votes to sack Lester, unlike the first attempt.<ref name=":73345">{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=August 31, 1960 |title=AIR Stockholders To Meet Sept. 10 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-stockholders-to/144443387/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240401184659/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-stockholders-to/144443387/ |archive-date=April 1, 2024 |access-date=March 31, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Journal]] |pages=26 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> A lawsuit was filed on September 1 by 15 stockholders who supported Lester against five opposing stockholders who claimed that they wanted to hold a special stockholders' meeting to oust the current leadership, leading to the "endanger[ment of] the corporation's financial structure".<ref name=":014">{{Cite news |date=September 1, 1960 |title=15 AIR Owners Sue |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-15-air-owners-s/144443427/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240401184659/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-15-air-owners-s/144443427/ |archive-date=April 1, 2024 |access-date=March 31, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Constitution]] |pages=38 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> A second lawsuit, filed by director I. C. Mitchell for [[libel]], was made nine days later against Deermont and four other stockholders that claimed his reputation was damaged in a letter sent to 800 stockholders, which allegedly stated that Mitchell stole $100,000 in gate revenue.<ref name=":015">{{Cite news |date=September 9, 1960 |title=AIR Director Sues Five Stockholders |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-director-su/144443502/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240401184700/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-director-su/144443502/ |archive-date=April 1, 2024 |access-date=March 31, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Constitution]] |pages=40 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> Although Lester was able to garner enough support by election day to retain the current administration,<ref>{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=September 10, 1960 |title=AIR's Proxy Battle A Dud |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-airs-proxy-battle-a/144450451/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240402160645/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-airs-proxy-battle-a/144450451/ |archive-date=April 2, 2024 |access-date=April 1, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Journal]] |pages=6 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> he decided to resign from his position,<ref name=":7224">{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=September 12, 1960 |title=Lester to Resign at AIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-lester-to-resign-at/144450472/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240402160647/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-lester-to-resign-at/144450472/ |archive-date=April 2, 2024 |access-date=April 1, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Journal]] |pages=19, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-lester-to-resign-at/144450497/ 21] |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> handing it to Nelson Weaver.<ref name=":72242">{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=September 14, 1960 |title=Weaver Named Chairman of AIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-weaver-named-chairma/144500345/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240402160649/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-weaver-named-chairma/144500345/ |archive-date=April 2, 2024 |access-date=April 1, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Journal]] |pages=25 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> |
On the same day, a attempt to overthrow Lester by an opposing stockholder group led by T. Walker Jackson and A. E. Deermont was formed because they felt that "Lester is not doing a good job".<ref name=":733222">{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=August 17, 1960 |title=Opponents Force AIR Proxy Fight |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-opponents-force-air/144441913/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240401184658/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-opponents-force-air/144441913/ |archive-date=April 1, 2024 |access-date=March 31, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Journal]] |pages=22 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> Lester, who was facing his second attempt to overthrow him during his tenure, angrily stated that if he was overthrown, leadership would have to pay off an insurmountable $562,000 mortgage payment.<ref name=":73322" /> A vote was scheduled for September 10, with Jackson claiming that their group had enough votes to sack Lester, unlike the first attempt.<ref name=":73345">{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=August 31, 1960 |title=AIR Stockholders To Meet Sept. 10 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-stockholders-to/144443387/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240401184659/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-air-stockholders-to/144443387/ |archive-date=April 1, 2024 |access-date=March 31, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Journal]] |pages=26 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> A lawsuit was filed on September 1 by 15 stockholders who supported Lester against five opposing stockholders who claimed that they wanted to hold a special stockholders' meeting to oust the current leadership, leading to the "endanger[ment of] the corporation's financial structure".<ref name=":014">{{Cite news |date=September 1, 1960 |title=15 AIR Owners Sue |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-15-air-owners-s/144443427/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240401184659/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-15-air-owners-s/144443427/ |archive-date=April 1, 2024 |access-date=March 31, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Constitution]] |pages=38 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> A second lawsuit, filed by director I. C. Mitchell for [[libel]], was made nine days later against Deermont and four other stockholders that claimed his reputation was damaged in a letter sent to 800 stockholders, which allegedly stated that Mitchell stole $100,000 in gate revenue.<ref name=":015">{{Cite news |date=September 9, 1960 |title=AIR Director Sues Five Stockholders |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-director-su/144443502/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240401184700/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-air-director-su/144443502/ |archive-date=April 1, 2024 |access-date=March 31, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Constitution]] |pages=40 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> Although Lester was able to garner enough support by election day to retain the current administration,<ref>{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=September 10, 1960 |title=AIR's Proxy Battle A Dud |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-airs-proxy-battle-a/144450451/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240402160645/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-airs-proxy-battle-a/144450451/ |archive-date=April 2, 2024 |access-date=April 1, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Journal]] |pages=6 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> he decided to resign from his position,<ref name=":7224">{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=September 12, 1960 |title=Lester to Resign at AIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-lester-to-resign-at/144450472/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240402160647/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-lester-to-resign-at/144450472/ |archive-date=April 2, 2024 |access-date=April 1, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Journal]] |pages=19, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-lester-to-resign-at/144450497/ 21] |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> handing it to Nelson Weaver.<ref name=":72242">{{Cite news |last=Favre |first=Gregory |date=September 14, 1960 |title=Weaver Named Chairman of AIR |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-weaver-named-chairma/144500345/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240402160649/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-journal-weaver-named-chairma/144500345/ |archive-date=April 2, 2024 |access-date=April 1, 2024 |work=[[The Atlanta Journal]] |pages=25 |via=[[Newspapers.com]] }} {{Open access}}</ref> |
Revision as of 19:04, 13 May 2024
Location | 1500 Tara Place, Hampton, Georgia, 30228 |
---|---|
Time zone | UTC−5 / UTC−4 (DST) |
Coordinates | 33°23′0.58″N 84°19′4.28″W / 33.3834944°N 84.3178556°W |
Owner | Speedway Motorsports (1990–present) |
Broke ground | 17 September 1958 |
Opened | 25 July 1960 |
Construction cost | $1.8 million USD |
Former names | Atlanta International Raceway (1960–1990) |
Major events | Current: NASCAR Cup Series Ambetter Health 400 (1960–present) Quaker State 400 (1960–2010, 2021–present) The Winston (1986) Former: Indy Racing League Atlanta 500 Classic (1965–1966, 1978–1979, 1981–1983, 1998–2001) IMSA GT Championship Grand Prix of Atlanta (1993) AMA Superbike Championship (1993–1994) |
Website | atlantamotorspeedway |
Quad-oval (2022–present) | |
Length | 1.540 miles (2.478 km) |
Banking | Turns: 28° Straights: 5° |
Race lap record | 0:29.361 ( Josh Berry, Ford Mustang GT, 2024, NASCAR) |
Quad-oval (1997–2021) | |
Length | 1.540 miles (2.478 km) |
Banking | Turns: 24° Straights: 5° |
Race lap record | 0:24.732 (224.163 mph) ( Billy Boat, Dallara IR-7, 1998, IRL) |
Oval (1960–1996) | |
Length | 1.522 miles (2.449 km) |
Banking | Turns: 24° Straights: 5° |
Road course (1992–1996) | |
Length | 2.522 miles (4.059 km) |
Race lap record | 1:13.514 ( Juan Manuel Fangio II, Eagle Mk III, 1993) |
Atlanta Motor Speedway (formerly known as the Atlanta International Raceway from 1960 to 1990) is a 1.540 miles (2.478 km) quad-oval intermediate speedway in Hampton, Georgia. The track has hosted a variety of sanctioning bodies since its inaugural season of racing in 1960, including NASCAR and IndyCar. The track has been owned by Speedway Motorsports, LLC (SMI) since 1990, with Brandon Hutchison currently serving as the track's general manager. Atlanta Motor Speedway is served by the nearby concurrent U.S. Route 41 and U.S. Route 19, along with Georgia State Route 20.
The track has a capacity of 71,000 as of 2015, down from its peak of 124,000 in 2010. It features numerous amenities, including a nine-story condominium complex, a 1⁄4 mile (0.40 km) oval on the track's frontstretch, and a 2.5 miles (4.0 km) roval road course layout upon 850 acres of land. Plans to expand to the facility throughout its lifespan, including original plans to construct a dragstrip and recent plans to construct a casino complex have been made but were either scrapped or came to a standstill.
In the late 1950s, plans were made by the First Georgia Securities Corporation to build a facility that rivaled the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. After a months-long delay, the first races were held in 1960. The track faced heavy financial troubles throughout the late 1960s, having to enter Chapter 10 bankruptcy in 1971. Under periods of stability directed by Stacey Cotton and Walt Nix, the facility was bought out by motorsports mogul Bruton Smith in 1990, with Smith and his company, SMI, directing the facility's expansion and renovation under longtime general manager Ed Clark. The track has since gone through two major reconfigurations since Smith's purchase: one in 1997 that changed the layout of the track, and one in 2021 that changed the style of racing to produce pack racing seen at superspeedways.
Description
Configurations
The track in its current form is measured at 1.54 miles (2.48 km), with 28 degrees of banking in the turns and five degrees of banking in the straightaways.[1] The racing surface width varies, with a recorded 52 feet on the frontstretch, 42 feet on the backstretch, and 40 feet in the turns.[2] From 1997 to 2021, the racing surface was at a recorded 55 feet with 24 degrees of banking in the turns.[3] When the track first opened as a true oval, it was advertised to be banked at 24 degrees in the turns, with the straightaways being "banked slightly".[4]
In 1992, developers added a 2.5 miles (4.0 km) road course layout that combined the main oval with a specialized infield portion to create a "roval".[5] As part of the 1997 reconfiguration, developers added a 1⁄4 mile (0.40 km) oval on the track's frontstretch to accommodate legends car racing.[6]
Amenities
Atlanta Motor Speedway is next to the concurrent U.S. Route 41 and U.S. Route 19, along with Georgia State Route 20.[7] As of 2015, the track had a reported capacity of 71,000,[8] with recent estimates being unknown due to the track's parent company, SMI, refusing to release capacity statistics as late as 2021.[9] At its peak, the facility held a maximum of 124,000 according to a 2010 report by the Atlanta Magazine.[10] The facility also covers around 850 acres of land.[11]
The track complex hosts a nine-story condominium complex called Tara Place. It was completed in 1994 and features 46 units[12] along with a ballroom.[13]
Track history
Planning and construction
On April 8, 1958, The Atlanta Constitution reported that the First Georgia Securities Corporation, led by president Richard W. King, announced plans to build a $1 million (adjusted for inflation, $10,560,554), 50,000-seat, 400-acre racing facility 20 miles (32 km) south of Atlanta along a location near U.S. Route 41. Atlanta International Raceway, Inc. (AIR) was formed to head the project.[14] Two months later, King and racing promoter of the nearby Lakewood Speedway, Carl Queen, opened a stock sale to the general public, with 479,550 shares being offered at $4 each; along with the announcement, the duo stated hopes of hosting NASCAR and United States Auto Club (USAC)-sanctioned races.[15] King later stated hopes of expanding the facility's uses to include "almost any conceivable outdoor show", with developers hoping to host four major races annually.[16] With the announcements, it was slated to become the second-biggest racing facility in the United States at the time, only behind the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.[17]
The stock sale stagnated, with only $40,000 worth of shares being sold by the end of July.[18] In August, drivers Curtis Turner and Joe Weatherly were announced by King as racing directors within the track's leadership, replacing Queen and Ernie Troutman, whose stock in the company was bought by track directors.[19] With Queen sacked, he and King entered into a dispute over future race dates between Lakewood Speedway and Atlanta International Raceway, with both stating that they weren't willing to give up dates if they happened to run races on the same day.[20] Groundbreaking occurred on September 17 at 1 PM EST, with King stating plans to host the first races at the facility "sometime in 1959";[21][22] actual work on the facility, however, did not start until late November.[23]
Delays and postponements
By February 1959, Turner and Weatherly both threatened to resign from their positions and file lawsuits against the company, with Weatherly stating that they did not pay them enough for stock sold at meetings, a claim which King refuted.[24] In addition, Weatherly claimed that he only hired to promote and did not want to be involved with selling stock, but was later forced to; he also implied that the financial situation and opening date of the track was unstable, stating, "They painted us a pretty picture... that picture isn't so pretty anymore".[25] Four months later, although stock sales saw further stagnation, the project was able to secure a $400,000 loan, with King claiming that construction progressed enough that construction crews started building the grandstands.[26] The amount of flagship races for the track later decreased to three.[27]
A NASCAR-sanctioned race for November 22, 1959, was set in late August, with NASCAR executive director Pat Purcell stating that he thought that the facility would be completed within the next 60 days.[28][29] In its USAC ventures, however, Indianapolis Motor Speedway superintendent Clarence Cagle recommended changes to the track to increase safety for it to have a better chance at receiving a USAC date.[30] Construction hit its first snag when road building was delayed due to fears of explosive hazards in August.[31] In October, 20 days of rain plagued the track's construction, with construction being left half complete. As a result, track leaders decided to postpone the race, hoping to reschedule it in December or January 1960.[32][33] The race was eventually postponed to March 27, the same day as a major race for Lakewood Speedway;[34] however, with the track still being constructed by February, leaders opted to postpone the race indefinitely.[35]
Four months later, Art Lester replaced King as president of the facility after he obtained over $1 million in financial aid.[36] In addition, the track was able to reschedule the NASCAR race for a July 31 date along with the addition of another unscheduled NASCAR race within the year, signing a $636,000 contract with the E. Jack Smith Construction Company to build the remainder of the track.[37][36] USAC, despite encouraging words from USAC director of competition Henry Banks,[38] reportedly refused to race at the facility unless "changes are made in the banking of the track", with USAC claiming they found "one dip especially awkward".[39] By the end of June, while NASCAR founder Bill France Sr. was confident that the track would be ready for racing by July 31, he stated that developers had "a heck of a lot of work to do".[40] On July 3, Furman Bisher, a writer for The Atlanta Journal, remarked that while he was able to confirm that the facility would open on time, he wrote that the facility had only built "necessary conveniences", had costed $1.8 million, and that most of its original leadership abandoned the project by its completion.[41]
First years
The first tests on the facility were ran by Jack Smith on July 10, with Smith being told to sandbag the session.[42] The facility officially opened to teams on July 25 for pre-race activities for the 1960 Dixie 300; however, the track saw immediate problems. Purcell ordered the fixing of a seven-foot flaw "between the straightaway and the pits" the same day,[43] with no protective guardrails were installed.[44] Rain plagued the track on the 28th, with "a bad bump in the middle groove of the first turn" being reported by drivers.[45] To run the race, track executive Alf Lester hired 17 high school football players for a week.[46] The race itself did not produce any major problems in the track,[47] with a crowd of 25,000 witnessing Edwin "Fireball" Roberts winning the inaugural race.[48] The victory was disputed by numerous drivers, most notably runner-up Cotton Owens who accused NASCAR officials of a scoring error.[49] Bisher later criticized the facility, stating that "[nothing] was ready, there was dirt everywhere. It was like a county fair in the boondocks".[10] Two weeks later, another annual NASCAR-sanctioned race, the Atlanta 500, was confirmed to be run in late October.[50]
On the same day, a attempt to overthrow Lester by an opposing stockholder group led by T. Walker Jackson and A. E. Deermont was formed because they felt that "Lester is not doing a good job".[51] Lester, who was facing his second attempt to overthrow him during his tenure, angrily stated that if he was overthrown, leadership would have to pay off an insurmountable $562,000 mortgage payment.[50] A vote was scheduled for September 10, with Jackson claiming that their group had enough votes to sack Lester, unlike the first attempt.[52] A lawsuit was filed on September 1 by 15 stockholders who supported Lester against five opposing stockholders who claimed that they wanted to hold a special stockholders' meeting to oust the current leadership, leading to the "endanger[ment of] the corporation's financial structure".[53] A second lawsuit, filed by director I. C. Mitchell for libel, was made nine days later against Deermont and four other stockholders that claimed his reputation was damaged in a letter sent to 800 stockholders, which allegedly stated that Mitchell stole $100,000 in gate revenue.[54] Although Lester was able to garner enough support by election day to retain the current administration,[55] he decided to resign from his position,[56] handing it to Nelson Weaver.[57]
Renovations were steadily made during the first years. A guardrail was eventually installed by late October in time for the 1960 Atlanta 500,[58] but parts of the track still remained unpaved.[59] A new scoreboard, touted as the "world's most modern" by The Atlanta Journal, was installed nearly two years later.[60] By mid-1963, after further renovations, Weaver announced that the facility was able to make $179,046 (adjusted for inflation, $1,781,897) in profit for the year, displaying financial success.[61] In 1965, Weaver announced preliminary plans to build a $500,000 dragstrip.[62] In 1967, rumors about the potential sale of AIR to various prospective buyers were reported, including driver and businessman Curtis Turner[63] and then-Atlanta Braves owner William Bartholomay.[64] Weaver later died on February 16, 1968.[65] The day before his death, Weaver appointed Jack Black to replace his position as president of AIR.[66]
American Raceways merger, financial troubles
Throughout the facility's first few years, most of its NASCAR-sanctioned races were plagued by rain delays, leading to financial troubles.[67] In addition, according to Macon News writer John Krueger, AIR leadership was plagued by "power struggles for several years" along with "too many chiefs and not enough Indians".[68] NASCAR personalities, including Junior Johnson and Buddy Arrington, also stated displeasure with the facility, with a poor track surface, heavy mismanagement, and traffic concerns being key issues.[69] Before Weaver died, he used his own finances to keep the track afloat; the stability went away after his death.[67] Under Black's leadership, in December 1968, AIR merged with the Lawrence LoPatin-owned Michigan International Speedway, which was built in the same year. With the deal, AIR announced an investment of $1 million worth of renovations for the facility, which covered a repave, a new dragstrip, seating expansion, and amenity improvements.[70][71] The merger was approved by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in March 1969.[72]
By late 1969, after LoPatin expanded the company and a rebranded it to American Raceways, the company fell into financial trouble after their director of operations, Les Richter, left the company.[73] In response, American Raceways merged with the STP Corporation.[74] The next year, AIR directors attempted to stop LoPatin from purchasing controlling interest of the facility;[75] by this point, LoPatin was seen as a self-centered dictator who had virtually no practical experience with racing within local Atlanta media.[76] In June, AIR directors initiated plans to sever ties from American Raceways after numerous executives, including Black, were removed from active roles or resigned due to LoPatin's leadership and the company's financial troubles.[77][78] However, by mid-July, American Raceways was able to purchase complete control over AIR.[79] LoPatin was reportedly ousted shortly after from his position, with Charlotte Motor Speedway president Richard Howard deciding to assist the track so it could run the 1970 Dixie 500.[80] Furman Bisher later recalled, "it was run like a 10-year-old boy would run a candy store. People who knew nothing about racing were trying to run races. Stockholders who knew nothing about a race track were trying to tell people who did how a race track ought to be run."[81]
By the running of the Dixie 500 in August, American Raceways oversaw numerous major executive changes.[82] The race itself was under threat of being cancelled when the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) demanded they pay $35,000 as a partial payment on their delinquent taxes, which totaled over $58,000.[83] As part of a last-ditch effort to save the facility from filing bankruptcy, they hoped to merge companies with the Charlotte Motor Speedway, led by track president Richard Howard.[84] A deal with Charlotte was officially confirmed in December; an announcement that American Raceways had left the track's management was also made.[85] However, a month later, Charlotte backed out of the merger, with Howard claiming that "many factors", including a local 5% "amusement tax" on gate receipts, misleading debt figures, and an increase of ad-valorem tax by fourfold had made him back out of the deal, essentially sealing the facility's fate of bankruptcy.[86]
Bankruptcy
Atlanta International Raceway officially filed for Chapter 10 bankruptcy on January 19, 1971, becoming a ward under the orders of United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia judge Sidney Oslin Smith Jr.[87] The court later appointed attorney R. Neal Batson to run the track as trustee.[88] The bankruptcy itself was also seen as a key point that put the stability of stock car racing into question; superspeedways like Atlanta across the Southeast had found themselves in economic trouble, with car manufacturers withdrawing financial support from it.[89] At the time of the filing, the facility found itself with around $1,400,000 in debt.[90] With the move, the facility was able to hold the 1971 Atlanta 500, securing a loan from the First National Bank of Atlanta.[91] Five board members also pledged to raise $175,000–200,000 for the race to run.[92] The race later found itself to be crucial to AIR's survival; with a crowd of 65,000 or more being claimed for the minimum amount needed for its survival,[67] former general manager Hal Hamrick stated, "If the fans don't turnout for this one, it is the end of major league auto racing in Atlanta and the end of AIR".[88]
The 1971 Atlanta 500 saw a crowd of around 57,000.[93] While below the amount that was claimed to be needed, Batson viewed it optimistically, although warning that "we're not out of the woods".[94] After the race, three groups displayed interest in buying the track, includng Howard.[93] In May, Batson was replaced by lawyer Stacy Cotton as trustee,[95] with Walter Nix later being appointed as general manager.[96] Within the first year of bankruptcy, AIR made around $188,000, showing optimistic progress.[97] In the 1972 Atlanta 500, a storm plagued the track, destroying numerous amenities, including concession stands and parts of grandstands.[98] However, despite the storm, the race was able to make a profit.[99] The next year, while making around $750,000 in profit,[100] Cotton approved a reorganization plan that would allow Jim Baker and Walter Nix to own controlling interest of the track for $500,000, with the duo planning to use $350,000 of the money to buy stocks.[101][102] The plan caused some outrage among minority stockholders, who felt that the value of their stock had decreased massively with the deal.[103]
Bankruptcy judge W. H. Drake recommended the reorganization plan in June.[104] The next month, North Carolina Motor Speedway president L. G. DeWitt joined Baker and Nix in their bid to own the track.[105] The reorganization plan was rejected by AIR stockholders; in response, Drake made modifications to appease the opposing stockholders.[106] By the end of the year, Smith awarded the three ownership and placed Larry Hogan and Bob Latford to run AIR. However, in April 1974, leading stockholder James Price challenged the decision in the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, as stockholders voted again to reject the plan.[107] Price claimed that if the three bought the track, the stock would lose five-sixths of its value.[108] The court denied Price's bid in January 1975, essentially setting up control for the three.[109] Price later appealed to the Supreme Court of the United States in May,[110] who rejected to hear his appeal.[111] The initial phase of reorganization that included debt payments began in July of that year.[112] By January 1976, the second phase started, which gave creditors options for their stock.[113] Two months later, on March 10, the track was officially turned over to a five-man board of directors, ending five years of bankruptcy.[114] With the deal, the three owned around 52% of AIR.[115]
Post-bankruptcy under Walter Nix and L. G. DeWitt
In 1978, AIR underwent a repave which was completed by June of that year.[116][117] By the end of the year, Hogan resigned from his position as general manager.[118] The next year, during the 1979 Atlanta 500, the first fatality at AIR occurred when Dennis Wade, an 18-year-old mechanic for Dave Watson, was hit by Watson after he spun on pit road, killing Wade.[119] Within the year, Winston-Salem Journal writer Mike Mulhurn reported that a group directed by Hogan tried to oust DeWitt from his leadership at both North Carolina Motor Speedway and AIR.[120] However, the takeover of both facilities failed.[121] In 1984, a crash including driver Terry Schoonover claimed the life of the first racer at the facility during the 1984 Atlanta Journal 500.[122] Partly as a result of Schoonover's death, then-general manager Mike Helton announced the construction of new walls.[123] In January 1986, Helton announced $3 million in renovations ahead of the 1986 The Winston.[124] Two years later, the facility went through its second repave in 10 years; the repave was meant to be done the next year, but Nix decided otherwise.[125] In September 1989, The Charlotte Observer reported that motorsports businessman Roger Penske offered to purchase the facility from DeWitt and Nix at an unspecified amount.[126] However, on the 22nd, the duo was reported to have rejected Penske's offer.[127]
Bruton Smith era
On February 22, 1990, both Charlotte and Atlanta local media reported that negotiations between Nix and a prospective buyer looking to purchase AIR, Charlotte Motor Speedway owner Bruton Smith, began.[128][129] Although the facility was expected to have been sold within the month, by the next day, both men denied that the sale had gone through; Smith reported delays in the sale due to "small snags",[130] and Nix outright denied a closed deal.[131] Four days later, Charlotte Observer writer Tom Higgins reported that a sale was imminent,[132] which Nix again denied.[133] In early March, Smith claimed that he was waiting for Nix to agree to the deal.[134] Two months later, although his earlier offer stalled, Smith stated renewed hope at purchasing AIR.[135] After another two months passed, AIR released a press statement that declared that Smith's second offer was most likely going to be accepted by AIR's directors.[136] By mid-October, Winston-Salem Journal writer Mike Mulhurn wrote that Smith had begun planning his first promotions at the track, unofficially confirming his purchase.[137]
Smith's purchase was officially confirmed on October 24, paying $19.8 million for the facility. Bob Marcum, the manager at the Speedway Club at Charlotte Motor Speedway, was appointed as general manager.[138] With the purchase, Smith announced a plan that sought to invest $75 million worth of renovations to the track.[139] The facility was also renamed to Atlanta Motor Speedway.[140] Within the first year of Smith's ownership, he announced the construction of a new 21,000-seat grandstand[141] along with traffic flow improvements, which had been a major issue with the facility since the track's inception.[142] The improvements were completed by November 1991.[143] A month later, he announced the construction of a 2.5 miles (4.0 km) road course layout that utilized both the oval and specialized infield portions, creating a "roval";[5] the road course held its first races in September 1992.[144] That same year, Marcum resigned from his position, with vice president of events at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Ed Clark, replacing him.[145] In 1993, Clark announced a three-year plan to expand capacity to 180,000. Along with the announcement, plans for a new condominium complex, totaling 112 units, were made.[146] Groundbreaking on the complex, named Tara Place, started on June 1,[147][148] and although it saw initial poor sales,[149] the $25 million facility partially opened by March 1994.[150]
1997 repave
Within 1994, Clark announced further renovations that were scheduled to be completed by 2000. Among said renovations were the addition of 68,000 seats, expansion of luxury boxes, and the reconfiguration of the track to become a quad-oval.[151] Tara Place was fully completed in November of that year, with 32 of the 46 condos being sold.[12] In August 1995, a new grandstand was constructed, adding 21,000 permanent seats.[152] The reconfiguration started a year and a half later, turning the track from a 1.52 miles (2.45 km) true oval into a 1.54 miles (2.48 km) quad-oval. The decision at the time drew criticism from drivers, including Dale Earnhardt, John Andretti, and Johnny Benson Jr.[153] The renovation itself cost $30 million and added 37,000 seats, a 1⁄4 mile (0.40 km) oval for legends car racing within the track's frontstretch, 44 luxury suites, and upgraded garages.[154][155] The first tire tests on the new surface were run in September by Bill Elliott,[156] and it held its first races in November.
In July 2005, a F2 tornado caused by the remnants of Hurricane Cindy hit the facility, causing an estimated $40 million in damage to the facility's grandstands, condominium complex, and other amenities.[157] The racing surface, however, was not affected,[158] and cars were able to test on the facility in early August.[159] The next year, developers demolished the backstretch Weaver Grandstands, converting it to a motorhome parking lot. To replace it, developers built a new portion of grandstands on the frontstretch, adding new suites on top of the newly-built Winners Grandstand.[160] With the addition, seating was expanded to 113,000.[161] Four years later, the track lost one of its NASCAR Cup Series race weekends to Kentucky Speedway, another track that Bruton Smith owned.[162] Throughout the 2010s, AMS made gradual decreases to capacity; by 2015, capacity decreased to 71,000 according to NBC Sports.[8] Further decreases were made in early 2018, when an unspecified number of seats were torn down in order to construct a hospitality area.[163] Later that year, Clark stepped down from his position as general manager, handing it over to assistant general manager Brandon Hutchison.[164]
Entertainment complex proposal, 2021 repave
In late 2019, Clark announced a proposal to build a $1 billion entertainment complex if the state of Georgia legalized gambling.[165] A hearing in the Georgia House of Representatives was scheduled in January 2020,[166] with the Henry County Board of Commissioners later voting in favor a statement of approval for a statewide referendum on the issue on the 21st.[167] However, the bill, now titled Senate Resolution 841, was viewed as a long shot; SR 841 needed a two-thirds majority in both houses of the Georgia General Assembly along with a popular vote, with Georgia historically holding a hardline stance on anti-gambling due to religious influence.[168] In March 2021, the proposal saw revived support when Georgia saw increased support for online sports betting, with Clark now campaigning to legalize gambling.[169] However, by 2022, although Hutchison and Clark maintained they were still campaigning for the legalization of gambling and were still in support of building the complex, support for it essentially stagnated.[170]
Clark announced his retirement from his position of president in December 2019[171] which took effect in March 2020, ending a 27-year reign and giving complete control to Hutchison.[172] After Clark's retirement, SMI CEO Marcus Smith hinted an upcoming repave and possible reconfiguration back to the original oval configuration if the entertainment complex proposal passed.[173] On July 6, 2021, a repave and subsequent reconfiguration was officially announced; the first repave since 1997. Banking was increased in the turns by four degrees to a total of 28 degrees, and the racing surface was narrowed to produce a style of racing similar to superspeedway pack racing.[1] The decision was met with criticism from drivers such as Denny Hamlin, Kevin Harvick, and Kyle Busch; particularly on accusations of a lack of driver input from SMI leadership.[174][175] The repave was completed in late December,[176] and the first tire tests took place the next month.[177]
Events
Racing
NASCAR
Since the track's inaugural season of racing in 1960, the facility has held two annual NASCAR Cup Series weekends per year for most of its history: the Ambetter Health 400 and the Quaker State 400. The former, traditionally called the Dixie 500, was initially a 300 miles (480 km) race that was scheduled to first run in late 1959.[28] However, after bad weather plagued the track's construction, the first race was delayed until June 1960.[36] The next year, the race distance increased to 400 miles (640 km).[178] In 1966, it was again increased, this time to 500 miles (800 km).[179] Until 2009, the race was held sometime in the fall; that year, it was moved to Labor Day weekend.[180] Six years later, it was moved to the spring.[181] In 2023, the distance was reduced back to 400 miles.[182]
The latter, traditionally called the Atlanta 500, was first run in 1960.[50] The race ran annually in the spring until 2011, when the race was moved to the Bruton Smith-owned Kentucky Speedway.[162] Ten years later, the second race was reinstated to the schedule, this time taking a race weekend in the month of July.[183] Along with its Cup Series races, the track also hosts lower-tier NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR Truck Series races.[184]
In 1986, the facility held a one-off iteration of The Winston (now known as the NASCAR All-Star Race),[185] which had originally meant to be a race that rotated facilities annually. However, after lackluster attendance, the race became stationary at its main home, the Charlotte Motor Speedway.[186]
IndyCar
In January 1961, the track confirmed dates for a USAC-sanctioned race in July with Indianapolis-style cars.[187] However, after a frightened Eddie Sachs performed tire tests that saw average lap speeds over 150 miles per hour (240 km/h),[188] USAC decided to cancel the race,[189] with Henry Banks claiming that modifications to the track to accommodate USAC cars had not been made and that asphalt surface readings were at unsafe temperatures; up to 140 °F (60 °C). Track president at the time, Nelson Weaver, later questioned the authenticity of Sachs' fears and put out a statement that criticized USAC officials.[190] Four years later, Weaver began renewed talks with USAC to host a race;[191] this time, USAC awarded a race weekend in September.[192] The race ran again the next year.[193] In the 1970s and 1980s, Championship Auto Racing Teams (CART) also raced at the facility.[194][195]
In 1997, the Indy Racing League (IRL) announced plans to race a 500 kilometres (310 mi) race at the facility, starting in 1998.[196] The race lasted for four years; the race was removed from the IRL schedule by the 2002 season.[197]
Other events and uses
The facility on numerous occasions has been used as an evacuee center in the event of hurricanes, including Hurricane Irma in 2017,[198] Hurricane Florence[199] and Hurricane Michael in 2018,[200] Hurricane Dorian in 2019,[201] Hurricane Ian in 2022,[202] and Hurricane Idalia in 2023.[203]
In 2021, the Atlanta Marathon ran a one-off event at the facility due to COVID-19 restrictions.[204] That same year, America's Got Talent: Extreme filmed its first season at the facility.[205]
Movie production
The facility has been used in the production of numerous films. It was first used for movie production in 1962 movie Thundering Wheels, with driver Jack Smith being featured in the movie.[206] Since, the facility has been used for the 1980 film Smokey and the Bandit II,[10] the 1982 Daniel Petrie-directed Six Pack,[207] and the 1983 Hal Needham-directed Stroker Ace.[208] In recent years, the 2017 film Logan Lucky used the facility as a stand-in for the Charlotte Motor Speedway.[209][210]
Lap records
As of February 2024, the fastest official race lap records at the Atlanta Motor Speedway are listed as:
References
- ^ a b Weaver, Matt (July 6, 2021). "Atlanta Motor Speedway Reconfigured With Daytona, Talladega In Mind". Autoweek. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 27, 2024.
- ^ Engle, Greg (July 6, 2021). "A Driver's Worst Nightmare: Atlanta Motor Speedway Will Get a Re-Pave". Cup Scene. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 27, 2024.
- ^ Estrada, Chris (July 6, 2021). "Atlanta Motor Speedway set for 2022 repave, reprofiling". NBC Sports. Archived from the original on March 5, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024.
- ^ Hagen, Ross (November 12, 1959). "Atlanta's New Auto Speedway Will Separate Men From Boys". Columbus Ledger. Associated Press. p. 45. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 27, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ a b Ingram, Jonathan (December 8, 1991). "Lanier Raceway owner downplays rumors of sale". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. E23. Archived from the original on April 10, 2024. Retrieved April 9, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Thompson, Chuck (June 2, 1997). "Miniature cars equal giant fun". The Macon Telegraph. pp. 1C, 3C. Archived from the original on March 29, 2024. Retrieved March 28, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ "Atlanta Motor Speedway opening gates for Hurricane Idalia evacuees". WSB-TV. August 29, 2023. Archived from the original on August 30, 2023. Retrieved March 27, 2024.
- ^ a b Long, Dustin (March 9, 2015). "Financial reports provide insight into seating capacities for tracks that host NASCAR races". NBC Sports. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 27, 2024.
- ^ "Atlanta Motor Speedway to allow full capacity". ESPN. Associated Press. April 30, 2021. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 27, 2024.
- ^ a b c Auchmutey, Jim (September 1, 2010). "Checkered History". Atlanta Magazine. Archived from the original on April 5, 2024. Retrieved April 4, 2024.
- ^ Walker, Grace (January 29, 2020). "Retiring Atlanta Motor Speedway President Ed Clark Reflects On 40 Years In The NASCAR Industry". WABE-TV. Archived from the original on January 29, 2020. Retrieved April 11, 2024.
- ^ a b Kime, Kent (November 25, 1994). "Life by the fast lane". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. F1. Retrieved April 10, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
{{cite news}}
: CS1 maint: url-status (link) - ^ Kimes, Kent (August 31, 1995). "Tara Ballroom is track's 'missing link'". The Atlanta Journal. pp. J1. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
{{cite news}}
: CS1 maint: url-status (link) - ^ Gregory, Ralph (April 8, 1958). "Million $ Speedway Planned For Atlanta". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 10, 11. Archived from the original on March 26, 2024. Retrieved March 26, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Favre, Gregory (June 18, 1958). "King and Queen Head Raceway". The Atlanta Journal. p. 30. Archived from the original on March 26, 2024. Retrieved March 26, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Favre, Gregory (June 26, 1958). "Four Big Races In Giant Raceway Plans". The Atlanta Journal. p. 57. Archived from the original on March 27, 2024. Retrieved March 26, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Gregory, Ralph (June 20, 1958). "A Big League Step". The Atlanta Constitution. p. 16. Archived from the original on March 27, 2024. Retrieved March 26, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Bisher, Furman (July 31, 1958). "The University of Golf". The Atlanta Journal. p. 45. Archived from the original on March 27, 2024. Retrieved March 26, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Atkinson, Paul (August 3, 1958). "Turner, Weatherly New Raceway Heads". The Atlanta Journal. p. 70. Archived from the original on March 27, 2024. Retrieved March 26, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Favre, Gregory (August 5, 1958). "AIR–Lakewood Forces May Tangle on Dates". The Atlanta Journal. p. 36. Archived from the original on March 27, 2024. Retrieved March 26, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ "Atlanta's Raceway Breaks Ground At 1". The Atlanta Constitution. September 17, 1958. p. 29. Archived from the original on March 27, 2024. Retrieved March 26, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ "Race Bosses To Consult Expert". The Atlanta Journal. September 18, 1958. p. 60. Archived from the original on March 27, 2024. Retrieved March 26, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Favre, Gregory (November 25, 1958). "AIR Begins Work On New Track". The Atlanta Journal. p. 13. Archived from the original on March 27, 2024. Retrieved March 26, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Thomy, Al (February 10, 1959). "AIR's Weatherly, Turner May Leave Directors' Jobs". The Atlanta Constitution. p. 26. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 27, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Favre, Gregory (February 11, 1959). "'AIR Pictures Not Pretty Now'". The Atlanta Journal. p. 18. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 27, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Favre, Gregory (June 18, 1959). "AIR Surges Back On $400,000 Pot". The Atlanta Journal. p. 32. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 27, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Favre, Gregory (June 22, 1959). "AIR Makes Plans For Three Races". The Atlanta Journal. p. 12. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 27, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ a b Favre, Gregory (August 19, 1959). "AIR Schedules NASCAR '300'". The Atlanta Journal. p. 44. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 27, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Thomy, Al (August 23, 1959). "AIR Gets NASCAR, Slates 35-Grand Race". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 1D. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 27, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Thomy, Al (August 26, 1959). "It's Straight Scoop When It Comes From Indy's Cagle". The Atlanta Constitution. p. 34. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 27, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ "Pipeline Injunction Halts Raceway Road Building". The Atlanta Constitution. August 28, 1959. p. 23. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 27, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Favre, Gregory (November 4, 1959). "AIR Postpones Race". The Atlanta Journal. p. 46. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 27, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Thomy, Al (November 5, 1959). "AIR To Delay Run Of 300-Mile Race". The Atlanta Constitution. p. 33. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 27, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Muhleman, Max (January 11, 1960). "Two Races Same Day". The Charlotte News. pp. 3B. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 28, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ "Stock Race Delayed Again". The Atlanta Constitution. February 4, 1960. p. 35. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 27, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ a b c Favre, Gregory (June 14, 1960). "AIR Sets July 31 Date; Lester Named President". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 32, 36. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 28, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Sewell, Dick (June 14, 1960). "AIR Inks Contracts To Complete Track". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 31, 32. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 28, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Favre, Gregory (June 18, 1960). "Banks Says AIR's Fine". The Atlanta Journal. p. 5. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 28, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Thomy, Al (June 22, 1960). "Timing And A Little Luck... And McDuffie's Back". The Atlanta Constitution. p. 37. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 28, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Favre, Gregory (June 30, 1960). "France: USAC Should Quit the Stock Cars". The Atlanta Journal. p. 63. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 28, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Bisher, Furman (July 3, 1960). "A Look at AIR". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 1C. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 28, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ "Smith Goes Light, Hits 114 in Trial". The Atlanta Constitution. July 11, 1960. p. 12. Archived from the original on March 28, 2024. Retrieved March 28, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Thomy, Al (July 26, 1960). "Lester Re-elected AIR Prexy; Dixie 300 Trials Wednesday". The Atlanta Constitution. p. 26. Archived from the original on March 30, 2024. Retrieved March 30, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Favre, Gregory (July 27, 1960). "Flock: 'This Is What I Know'". The Atlanta Journal. p. 18. Archived from the original on March 30, 2024. Retrieved March 30, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Thomy, Al (July 29, 1960). "Drivers Pronounce AIR Track Fast". The Atlanta Constitution. p. 43. Archived from the original on March 30, 2024. Retrieved March 30, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Cunningham, George (March 17, 1976). "Perils of Pauline". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 1D, 6D. Archived from the original on April 8, 2024. Retrieved April 7, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Bisher, Furman (August 1, 1960). "Defeat for a Little Man". The Atlanta Journal. p. 16. Archived from the original on March 30, 2024. Retrieved March 30, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Thomy, Al (August 1, 1960). "Roberts Fireballs His Way To Torrid Dixie 300 Win". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 13, 14. Archived from the original on March 30, 2024. Retrieved March 30, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Favre, Gregory (August 1, 1960). "'I'll Go To My Grave Saying I Won' – Owens". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 16, 19. Archived from the original on March 30, 2024. Retrieved March 30, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ a b c Favre, Gregory (August 13, 1960). "AIR Faces Fight In Control Row". The Atlanta Journal. p. 7. Archived from the original on April 1, 2024. Retrieved March 31, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Favre, Gregory (August 17, 1960). "Opponents Force AIR Proxy Fight". The Atlanta Journal. p. 22. Archived from the original on April 1, 2024. Retrieved March 31, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Favre, Gregory (August 31, 1960). "AIR Stockholders To Meet Sept. 10". The Atlanta Journal. p. 26. Archived from the original on April 1, 2024. Retrieved March 31, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ "15 AIR Owners Sue". The Atlanta Constitution. September 1, 1960. p. 38. Archived from the original on April 1, 2024. Retrieved March 31, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ "AIR Director Sues Five Stockholders". The Atlanta Constitution. September 9, 1960. p. 40. Archived from the original on April 1, 2024. Retrieved March 31, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Favre, Gregory (September 10, 1960). "AIR's Proxy Battle A Dud". The Atlanta Journal. p. 6. Archived from the original on April 2, 2024. Retrieved April 1, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Favre, Gregory (September 12, 1960). "Lester to Resign at AIR". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 19, 21. Archived from the original on April 2, 2024. Retrieved April 1, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Favre, Gregory (September 14, 1960). "Weaver Named Chairman of AIR". The Atlanta Journal. p. 25. Archived from the original on April 2, 2024. Retrieved April 1, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Flowers, Jackie (October 25, 1960). "AIR Rail Goes Up; Welborn Joins Field". The Atlanta Journal. p. 43. Archived from the original on April 2, 2024. Retrieved April 1, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Favre, Gregory (October 20, 1960). "'Runaway' Cars Threat at AIR". The Atlanta Journal. p. 65. Archived from the original on April 2, 2024. Retrieved April 1, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ "Something New Added For Fans". The Atlanta Journal. March 18, 1962. pp. 7F. Archived from the original on April 4, 2024. Retrieved April 3, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Logue, John (July 17, 1963). "A.I.R. in the Black, Clears $179,046". The Atlanta Journal. p. 23. Archived from the original on April 4, 2024. Retrieved April 3, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Robinson, Bill (February 25, 1965). "Half-Million Drag Strip Slated For A.I.R. In 1966". The Atlanta Journal. p. 46. Archived from the original on April 6, 2024. Retrieved April 6, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Thomy, Al (April 27, 1967). "'No Firm Offer' Made for Track". The Atlanta Constitution. p. 54. Archived from the original on April 8, 2024. Retrieved April 7, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ "Braves Eye Race Track". The Macon Telegraph. Associated Press. March 13, 1967. p. 7. Archived from the original on April 8, 2024. Retrieved April 7, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ "Nelson Weaver Dies". The Atlanta Journal. February 17, 1968. pp. 1B. Archived from the original on April 6, 2024. Retrieved April 6, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Cook, Dan (March 16, 1968). "Cookin' with Gas". Ledger-Enquirer. p. 9. Archived from the original on April 6, 2024. Retrieved April 6, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ a b c Hunter, Jim (March 28, 1971). "Atlanta Raceway Faces Its Day of Reckoning". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 10H. Archived from the original on April 6, 2024. Retrieved April 5, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Krueger, John (January 24, 1971). "Green Flag for MGR, AIR". The Macon News. pp. 3B. Archived from the original on April 8, 2024. Retrieved April 7, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Thomy, Al (February 14, 1973). "AIR's Biggest Need: A Transfusion of Green". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 1D, 4D. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 8, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Robinson, Bill (December 20, 1968). "A.I.R. Makes Big Change". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 2C. Archived from the original on April 8, 2024. Retrieved April 7, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Zier, Pat (December 20, 1968). "AIR Merges With Track In Michigan". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 68, 71. Archived from the original on April 8, 2024. Retrieved April 7, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Robinson, Bill (March 13, 1969). "A.I.R. Merger Receives Approval Of The S.E.C." The Atlanta Journal. pp. 2D. Archived from the original on April 8, 2024. Retrieved April 7, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ "France Proposes Pension". The Atlanta Journal. October 22, 1969. pp. 2D. Archived from the original on April 8, 2024. Retrieved April 7, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Hudspeth, Ron (January 23, 1970). "Granatelli to Become Part Owner of AIR". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 1C, 5C. Archived from the original on April 8, 2024. Retrieved April 7, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Zier, Pat (January 30, 1970). "Stop LoPatin Is AIR Goal". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 3C. Archived from the original on April 8, 2024. Retrieved April 7, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Zier, Pat (June 23, 1970). "LoPatin --- No Rain --- AIR's 'Hex'". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 5C. Archived from the original on April 8, 2024. Retrieved April 7, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Zier, Pat (June 26, 1970). "Lopatin Ouster Is AIR Goal?". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 2D. Archived from the original on April 8, 2024. Retrieved April 7, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Hudspeth, Ron (June 29, 1970). "AIR Fights LoPatin". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 1D, 5D. Archived from the original on April 8, 2024. Retrieved April 7, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Hunter, Jim (July 16, 1970). "LoPatin Wins Battle for A.I.R." The Atlanta Journal. pp. 1D, 4D. Archived from the original on April 8, 2024. Retrieved April 7, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Hunter, Jim (July 30, 1970). "Big Howard Comes to AIR Rescue". The Atlanta Journal. pp. D6. Archived from the original on April 8, 2024. Retrieved April 7, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Bisher, Furman (August 5, 1970). "Now Playing First Chair". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 1D. Archived from the original on April 8, 2024. Retrieved April 7, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Hudspeth, Ron (August 2, 1970). "Fast Fred Makes Bid". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 1C, 4C. Archived from the original on April 8, 2024. Retrieved April 7, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Hunter, Jim (August 3, 1970). "Federals Move in on AIR". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 1C, 6C. Archived from the original on April 6, 2024. Retrieved April 5, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Zier, Pat (October 30, 1970). "AIR-Charlotte Merger May Help Local Oval". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 3D. Archived from the original on April 6, 2024. Retrieved April 5, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Jackson, Teague (December 4, 1970). "Charlotte Speedway Buys AIR". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 1D, 6D. Archived from the original on April 6, 2024. Retrieved April 5, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Hunter, Jim (January 13, 1971). "Charlotte Backs Out on A.I.R. Merger". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 1D, 3D. Archived from the original on April 6, 2024. Retrieved April 5, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Hudspeth, Ron (January 19, 1971). "Debts Frozen, A.I.R. to Run". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 1D, 5D. Archived from the original on April 6, 2024. Retrieved April 5, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ a b Hudspeth, Ron (January 31, 1971). "A.I.R. Faces 'Do or Die' Bind". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 1C, 6C. Archived from the original on April 6, 2024. Retrieved April 5, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Hunter, Jim (February 7, 1971). "Is Stock Car Racing Facing a Crossroads?". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 8C. Archived from the original on April 6, 2024. Retrieved April 5, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Outlar, Jesse (February 11, 1971). "The Survival 500". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 1D. Archived from the original on April 6, 2024. Retrieved April 5, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Hunter, Jim (January 20, 1971). "A.I.R. Hopes To Follow Charlotte Footsteps". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 4D. Archived from the original on April 6, 2024. Retrieved April 5, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Zier, Pat (January 20, 1971). "Move By AIR Solidifies Race". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 2D. Archived from the original on April 6, 2024. Retrieved April 5, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ a b Thomy, Al (April 6, 1971). "Future of AIR Still Up in Air". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 1C. Archived from the original on April 6, 2024. Retrieved April 5, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Hunter, Jim (April 5, 1971). "A.I.R. Stride Toward Solvency". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 1D. Archived from the original on April 6, 2024. Retrieved April 5, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Cunningham, George (May 4, 1971). "Batson Replaced At AIR". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 2D. Archived from the original on April 6, 2024. Retrieved April 5, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Cunningham, George (May 28, 1971). "Nix Named General Manager". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 3D. Archived from the original on April 6, 2024. Retrieved April 5, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Hunter, Jim (March 19, 1972). "A.I.R. Report: No Flak Flying for Atlanta 500". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 17D. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 8, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Briggs, Josh (September 3, 2011). "Local used to run Atlanta Motor Speedway". The Covington News. Archived from the original on April 8, 2024. Retrieved April 7, 2024.
- ^ Thomy, Al (March 28, 1972). "Track 'Turning Around'". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 2D. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved February 5, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Bisher, Furman (November 7, 1973). "Cinderella Time?". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 1D. Retrieved February 1, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
{{cite news}}
: CS1 maint: url-status (link) - ^ Cunningham, George (May 1, 1973). "Baker–Nix Offer OK'd By Trustee". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 1D. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 8, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Hunter, Jim (June 25, 1973). "Cotton Comes to AIR with a Plan, But Will the Track Ever Prosper?". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 2D. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 8, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Cunningham, George (May 4, 1972). "No Waves, No Uprisings at AIR". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 13D. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 8, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ "AIR Seems Stable Now". The Atlanta Constitution. June 22, 1973. pp. 3D. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 8, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ "DeWitt Joins AIR Takeover". The Atlanta Constitution. July 23, 1973. pp. 6D. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 8, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Cunningham, George (December 6, 1973). "Judge Moves To Give Trio AIR Control". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 3D. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 8, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Cunningham, George (April 16, 1974). "Hogan, Latford Will Direct AIR". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 1D. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 8, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Cunningham, George (June 16, 1974). "A Tiger by the Tail". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 2D. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 8, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Cunningham, George (January 10, 1975). "Appeals Court Denies Price's Bid". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 5C. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 8, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Cunningham, George (May 16, 1975). "Price Steps up Fight for AIR". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 2D, 11D. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 8, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Cunningham, George (May 23, 1975). "Supreme Court Refuses To Hear Price's Petition". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 2E. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 8, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Tucker, Tom (July 12, 1975). "Future Brightens For Speedway". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 12A. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 8, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ "Raceway Plans". The Macon News. January 22, 1976. pp. 2C. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 8, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ "A.I.R. In Stable Shape". Stanly News and Press. March 16, 1976. pp. 9A. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 8, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Cunningham, George (March 11, 1976). "Pearson, Fans Mingle". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 2E. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
{{cite news}}
: CS1 maint: url-status (link) - ^ Giffen, Tom (March 15, 1978). "Drivers Bump Along for Last Time". Ledger-Enquirer. pp. D1. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Mulhurn, Mike (June 30, 1978). "Johncock Clocked at 188; Atlanta Asphalt Crumbling". Winston-Salem Journal. pp. 37, 40. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Cunningham, George (December 5, 1978). "Hogan Leaves Position At AIR". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 5D. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Hinton, Ed (March 19, 1979). "Pit Road Mishap Kills Crewman". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 1D, 3D. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Mulhurn, Mike (March 19, 1979). "Factions Struggle for Control of N.C. Motor Speedway". Winston-Salem Journal. p. 37. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Cunningham, George (March 20, 1979). "AIR Takeover Bid Fails". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 5D. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Wilkinson, Jack (November 12, 1984). "Crash claims life of Schoonover". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 1D, 8D. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ McCollister, Tom (June 5, 1985). "AIR will build wall, make track safer". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 1C. Archived from the original on December 18, 2023. Retrieved December 18, 2023 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ McCollister, Tom (January 22, 1986). "AIR plans renovation in time for Winston". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 3C. Archived from the original on December 18, 2023. Retrieved December 18, 2023 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Robinson, Bill (May 22, 1988). "AIR repaves NASCAR's 'gray old lady'". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 29D. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
{{cite news}}
: CS1 maint: url-status (link) - ^ Higgins, Tom (September 14, 1989). "Penske Reportedly Trying To Buy Atlanta Raceway". The Charlotte Observer. pp. 1B, 7B. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Robinson, Bill (September 22, 1989). "Nix and DeWitt Reject Penske Bid to Buy AIR". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. F2. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Higgins, Tom (February 22, 1990). "Smith To Purchase Atlanta Raceway". The Charlotte Observer. pp. 1B, 3B. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 9, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Robinson, Bill (February 22, 1990). "Charlotte negotiating to purchase AIR". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. F3. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 9, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Higgins, Tom (February 23, 1990). "'Small Snags' Delaying Atlanta Track Sale". The Charlotte Observer. pp. 2E. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 9, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Robinson, Bill (February 23, 1990). "No movement on purchase of AIR track". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. G9. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 9, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Higgins, Tom (February 27, 1990). "Smith Closes In On Atlanta Speedway Deal". The Charlotte Observer. pp. 2B. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 9, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Mulhurn, Mike (March 1, 1990). "Atlanta Raceway Not Sold, Nix Says". Winston-Salem Journal. p. 33. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 9, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ "NASCAR Notebook". Winston-Salem Journal. March 6, 1990. p. 28. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 9, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Robinson, Bill (May 3, 1990). "Charlotte Motor Speedway owner 'positive' about purchasing AIR". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. G9. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 9, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Robinson, Bill (July 14, 1990). "Charlotte chairman planning to buy AIR". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. F6. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 9, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Mulhurn, Mike (October 14, 1990). "Racing Notebook". Winston-Salem Journal. pp. D9. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 9, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Higgins, Tom (October 24, 1990). "Smith Buys Atlanta Raceway". The Charlotte Observer. pp. 1C, 2C. Archived from the original on July 9, 2023. Retrieved July 8, 2023 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Robinson, Bill (October 24, 1990). "New owner of AIR plans $75 million in improvements". The Atlanta Journal. pp. C3. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 9, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Robinson, Bill (October 28, 1990). "It's officially AMS, not AIR, says speedway's new owner". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. E20. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 9, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Minter, Rick (June 18, 1991). "Atlanta Motor Speedway to add 21,000 seats in time for Hardee's 500". The Atlanta Journal. pp. B3. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 9, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Higgins, Tom (November 12, 1991). "Improvements at Atlanta come to pass". The Charlotte Observer. pp. 2B. Archived from the original on April 9, 2024. Retrieved April 9, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Ingram, Jonathan (November 10, 1991). "Atlanta Motor Speedway hopes changes impress fans". The Atlanta Journal. pp. F6. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 9, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Thompson, Chuck (September 25, 1992). "Atlanta Speedway adds Can-Am race". The Macon Telegraph. pp. 6C. Archived from the original on April 10, 2024. Retrieved April 9, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Ingram, Jonathan (July 16, 1992). "Clark appointed GM at Atlanta Speedway". The Atlanta Journal. pp. F5. Archived from the original on April 10, 2024. Retrieved April 9, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Ingram, Jonathan (January 17, 1993). "Skins' Rypien forms race team". The Atlanta Journal. pp. F2. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 10, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Salter, Sallye (May 23, 1993). "Trackside condos soon to be started". The Atlanta Journal. pp. H2. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 10, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Lundy, David (June 3, 1993). "Racing fans eyeing condos at speedway". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. I1. Retrieved April 10, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
{{cite news}}
: CS1 maint: url-status (link) - ^ King, Jim (June 1, 1993). "AMS condominiums a tough sell so far". The Atlanta Journal. pp. E1, E8. Retrieved April 10, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
{{cite news}}
: CS1 maint: url-status (link) - ^ Kimes, Kent (March 31, 1994). "Speedway clubhouse keeps condo project on track". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. JI8. Retrieved April 10, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
{{cite news}}
: CS1 maint: url-status (link) - ^ Kimes, Kent (February 25, 1994). "Atlanta Motor Speedway to add 68,000 seats". The Atlanta Journal. pp. C1. Retrieved April 10, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
{{cite news}}
: CS1 maint: url-status (link) - ^ Villiers, Kelly (August 11, 1995). "Atlanta Motor Speedway adds 21,000 more seats". The Macon Telegraph. pp. 4C. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 10, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Levine, Al (March 9, 1997). "Drivers bidding farewell to 'Big Paper Clip'". The Atlanta Journal. pp. F2. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ McCollister, Tom (August 8, 1996). "Atlanta Motor Speedway to undergo renovations". The Atlanta Journal. pp. C6. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Conner, Christi (May 1, 1997). "Speedway gets 37-year overhaul". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. JI3. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Thompson, Chuck (September 11, 1997). "Elliott takes 1st laps on new Atlanta track". The Macon Telegraph. pp. 3C. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Minter, Rick (July 8, 2005). "What a wreck". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. E1, E10. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Minter, Rick (July 28, 2005). "Helton assures track is ready". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. E2. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Minter, Rick (August 3, 2005). "Ford Fusion passes debut test at AMS". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. D9. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Minter, Rick (July 8, 2006). "They knew they were on the right track". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. D1, D6. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ "Raceway in Hampton to sport some upgrades". The Atlanta Constitution. September 21, 2006. pp. JI6. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ a b Demmons, Doug (August 5, 2010). "Atlanta Motor Speedway loses one of its Sprint Cup races". AL.com. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024.
- ^ Stafford, Leon (January 20, 2018). "Atlanta Motor Speedway using new bar to entice social racing fans". The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. ISSN 1539-7459. Archived from the original on March 5, 2020. Retrieved April 10, 2024.
- ^ Southers, Tim (November 28, 2018). "Atlanta Motor Speedway makes management changes". Motorsport.com. Archived from the original on October 23, 2021. Retrieved April 10, 2024.
- ^ Williams, Dave (October 16, 2019). "Atlanta Motor Speedway chief pitches $1B casino resort plan". Atlanta Business Journals. Archived from the original on January 24, 2021. Retrieved March 27, 2024.
- ^ "Casino gambling plans at Atlanta Motor Speedway to attract Georgia lawmakers". WMGT-TV. January 8, 2020. Archived from the original on March 29, 2024. Retrieved March 28, 2024.
- ^ Roark, Monroe (February 5, 2020). "Henry County commissioners approve gambling resolution". The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. ISSN 1539-7459. Archived from the original on March 29, 2024. Retrieved March 28, 2024.
- ^ O'Connor, Devin (June 23, 2020). "Georgia Voters Could Face Casino Ballot Referendum in November". Casino.org. Archived from the original on March 29, 2024. Retrieved March 29, 2024.
- ^ Jackson, Eric (March 9, 2021). "$1 billion casino resort at Atlanta Motor Speedway still on the table: 'We're still alive'". Atlanta Business Journals. Archived from the original on March 9, 2021. Retrieved March 29, 2024.
- ^ Jordan, Jerry (March 19, 2022). "Atlanta Motor Speedway Motoring Towards Entertainment and Gaming Destination". Kickin' the Tires. Archived from the original on March 29, 2024. Retrieved March 28, 2024.
- ^ "Atlanta Motor Speedway's Ed Clark to retire after next race". The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. December 2, 2019. ISSN 1539-7459. Archived from the original on March 29, 2024. Retrieved March 28, 2024.
- ^ Hummer, Steve (March 14, 2020). "Ed Clark's Atlanta speedway reign ends far more quietly than it began". The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. ISSN 1539-7459. Archived from the original on March 29, 2024. Retrieved March 28, 2024.
- ^ Ryan, Nate (October 2, 2020). "With casino still a hope, Atlanta track headed for a repave and 'reprofiling'". NBC Sports. Archived from the original on January 10, 2024. Retrieved March 28, 2024.
- ^ Weaver, Matt (July 9, 2021). "NASCAR Drivers Lament Lack Of Input In Decision To Reconfigure Atlanta". Autoweek. Archived from the original on January 12, 2024. Retrieved January 12, 2024.
- ^ Fenwick, Adam (July 11, 2021). "Drivers Share Frustration Amid Atlanta Reprofile Plans". Speed Sport. Archived from the original on March 29, 2024. Retrieved March 28, 2024.
- ^ Walters, Shane (December 23, 2021). "Atlanta Motor Speedway reconfiguration complete (Video)". Racing News. Archived from the original on March 29, 2024. Retrieved March 29, 2024.
- ^ Gibson, Nick (January 6, 2022). "Nascar drivers test on newly renovated Atlanta Motor Speedway for first time". WGXA-TV. Archived from the original on March 29, 2024. Retrieved March 28, 2024.
- ^ "AIR Ups Distance, Money For Sept. 17 NASCAR Race". The Atlanta Journal. July 19, 1961. p. 14. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 12, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Robinson, Bill (March 9, 1967). "A.I.R's Dixie 400 To Add Dollars And Miles". The Atlanta Journal. p. 47. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 12, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Mejía, Diego (August 19, 2008). "NASCAR reveals 2009 calendar". Autosport. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 12, 2024.
- ^ Pockrass, Bob (August 26, 2014). "2015 Sprint Cup schedule: Darlington, Bristol, Atlanta, west coast dates change". Sporting News. Archived from the original on August 12, 2020. Retrieved April 12, 2024.
- ^ Keeley, Sean (January 2, 2023). "NASCAR world reacts to big race changes". The Comeback. Archived from the original on January 16, 2023. Retrieved April 12, 2024.
- ^ Roberson, Doug (September 30, 2020). "NASCAR adds second Atlanta race in 2021". The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. ISSN 1539-7459. Archived from the original on December 3, 2022. Retrieved April 12, 2024.
- ^ "Back to the Future: New venues, return of familiar locations highlight 2022 NASCAR Xfinity Series, NASCAR Camping World Truck Series slates". NASCAR. September 29, 2021. Retrieved May 27, 2022.
- ^ McCollister, Tom (May 12, 1986). "Elliott climbs back on top in Winston". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 1D, 8D. Archived from the original on April 10, 2024. Retrieved April 9, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Damcott, Anthony (March 15, 2023). "That One Time the All-Star Race Was Held at Atlanta". Frontstretch. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 9, 2024.
- ^ Favre, Gregory (January 19, 1961). "AIR Slates Race July 16 Of True Indianapolis Cars". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 38, 39. Archived from the original on April 3, 2024. Retrieved April 2, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Favre, Gregory (June 28, 1961). "Sachs Turns AIR in 152.284, Shoots Today for Even 155". The Atlanta Journal. p. 40. Archived from the original on April 3, 2024. Retrieved April 2, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Thomy, Al (July 1, 1961). "USAC Cancels 250-Miler, NASCAR To Run in Sub". The Atlanta Constitution. p. 9. Archived from the original on April 3, 2024. Retrieved April 2, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Asher, Gene (July 1, 1961). "Banks: 'Criminal Act To Permit A.I.R. Race'". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 6, 7. Archived from the original on April 3, 2024. Retrieved April 2, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Robinson, Bill (January 1, 1965). "Meet Decides USAC's Fate". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 4D. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 12, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Robinson, Bill (April 8, 1965). "A.I.R. To Host USAC in August". The Atlanta Journal. p. 83. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 12, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Hayes, Hal (June 27, 1965). "Andretti Flashes to AIR Victory". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 31, 33. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 12, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Hinton, Ed (April 22, 1979). "Atlanta Shapes Up As CART Indy 500". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 1D, 16D. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 12, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Stinson, Thomas M. (April 18, 1983). "Johncock is Dixie 200 champion". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 6D. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 12, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Thompson, Chuck (August 12, 1997). "Atlanta Motor Speedway will add IRL race in '98". The Macon Telegraph. pp. 1C, 4C. Archived from the original on April 27, 2024. Retrieved April 11, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ "Michigan, Nazareth join '02 IRL schedule". Autosport. July 1, 2001. Archived from the original on January 27, 2023. Retrieved April 11, 2024.
- ^ "Talladega Superspeedway, Atlanta Motor Speedway offer free campground space for Irma evacuees". WHNT-TV. September 6, 2017. Archived from the original on September 8, 2017. Retrieved September 8, 2017.
- ^ "Charlotte Motor Speedway, Atlanta Motor Speedway open campgrounds to Florence evacuees". WVEC-TV. September 11, 2018. Archived from the original on September 11, 2018. Retrieved September 11, 2018.
- ^ Mines, Adam (October 9, 2018). "Atlanta Motor Speedway opening camping facilities for Hurricane Michael evacuees". WGXA-TV. Archived from the original on August 30, 2019. Retrieved August 30, 2019.
- ^ "Atlanta Motor Speedway opens free camping facilities to evacuees". CNN. August 29, 2019. Archived from the original on April 3, 2024. Retrieved April 3, 2024.
- ^ "Atlanta Motor Speedway opens campgrounds to those fleeing Hurricane Ian". WAGA-TV. September 27, 2022. Archived from the original on September 28, 2022. Retrieved September 28, 2022.
- ^ "Atlanta Motor Speedway opening gates for Hurricane Idalia evacuees". WSB-TV. August 29, 2023. Archived from the original on August 30, 2023. Retrieved August 29, 2023.
- ^ Westerholm, Tom (February 28, 2021). "Cambridge resident, Olympian Molly Seidel wins Atlanta Half Marathon". Boston.com. Archived from the original on April 17, 2021. Retrieved April 3, 2021.
- ^ Ho, Rodney (September 17, 2021). "'America's Got Talent Extreme' shooting at Atlanta Motor Speedway Sept. 27-Oct. 20". The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Archived from the original on November 18, 2023. Retrieved April 4, 2024.
- ^ Robinson, Bill (October 25, 1962). "Frank, Walters Split for the '400'". The Atlanta Journal. p. 73. Archived from the original on April 5, 2024. Retrieved April 4, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Hinton, Ed (March 14, 1982). "Movie 'role' boosts prize by $50,000". The Atlanta Journal. pp. 21C. Archived from the original on April 5, 2024. Retrieved April 4, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Cain, Scott (July 4, 1983). "'Stroker' giggles with pecking fun". The Atlanta Constitution. pp. 4C. Archived from the original on April 5, 2024. Retrieved April 4, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Janes, Théoden (August 13, 2017). "The true story behind the fictional movie about the Charlotte Motor Speedway heist". The Charlotte Observer. pp. 1C, 2C. Archived from the original on February 4, 2024. Retrieved February 3, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ^ Brett, Jennifer (August 18, 2017). "What NASCAR has to say about Atlanta-filmed "Logan Lucky"". The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Archived from the original on April 5, 2024. Retrieved April 5, 2024.
- ^ a b c "Atlanta Motor Speedway - Racing Circuits". RacingCircuits.info. Archived from the original on February 12, 2023. Retrieved February 12, 2023.
- ^ "Atlanta - Motorsport Magazine". Motor Sport Magazine. Archived from the original on July 13, 2022. Retrieved February 26, 2024.
- ^ "2024 Ambetter Health 400 Race Statistics". February 25, 2024. Archived from the original on February 26, 2024. Retrieved February 26, 2024.
- ^ "NASCAR Truck 2022 Atlanta Race Fastest Laps". March 19, 2022. Archived from the original on September 20, 2023. Retrieved July 16, 2022.
- ^ "NASCAR Xfinity 2022 Atlanta Race Fastest Laps". March 19, 2022. Archived from the original on July 16, 2022. Retrieved July 16, 2022.
- ^ "2017 Atlanta NASCAR Race Fastest Laps". March 5, 2017. Archived from the original on March 16, 2024. Retrieved March 17, 2024.
- ^ "2021 EchoPark 250 Race Statistics". March 20, 2021. Archived from the original on March 16, 2024. Retrieved March 17, 2024.
- ^ "2021 Fr8Auctions 200 Race Statistics". March 20, 2021. Archived from the original on March 16, 2024. Retrieved March 17, 2024.
- ^ a b c "Atlanta IMSA GTP 1993". April 18, 1993. Archived from the original on July 13, 2022. Retrieved July 13, 2022.
- ^ "IMSA Supercar Atlanta 1993". April 18, 1993. Archived from the original on July 13, 2022. Retrieved July 13, 2022.
External links
- Buildings and structures in Henry County, Georgia
- Motorsport venues in Georgia (U.S. state)
- Champ Car circuits
- NASCAR tracks
- ARCA Menards Series tracks
- IndyCar Series tracks
- International Race of Champions tracks
- NASCAR races at Atlanta Motor Speedway
- IMSA GT Championship circuits
- Tourist attractions in Henry County, Georgia
- 1960 establishments in Georgia (U.S. state)
- Sports venues completed in 1960