DARLINGTON RACEWAY TRACK NEWS
Tickets and general info: (843) 395-8499
Public Relations: (843) 395-8892
Hospitality and Marketing: (843) 395-8877
Mailing address:
Darlington Raceway
P.O. Box 500
Darlington, SC 29540-0500
Shipping address
Darlington Raceway
1301 Harry Byrd Hwy
Darlington, SC 29532
Track Specs: Darlington Raceway
Banking: Turns 1/2 - 25 degrees, width 79 ft; Turns 3/4 - 23 degrees, width 62 ft; Front - 3 degrees, Back - 2 degrees.
Frontstretch 1,229 ft long, 90 ft wide;
Backstretch - 1,229 ft long, 90 ft wide
Pit Road: Length: 2,025 feet, Width: 46 feet
Track Repaved in early 2008
Grandstand Seating: 68,000
Website:
Darlington Raceway
ISC Motorsports
ESPN's NASCAR Track Guide
2008 Darlington Raceway FanGuide: download the pdf at Darlingtonraceway.com.
Old Track Name: Darlington International Raceway
What is a "Darlington stripe" Slang term for the black marks resulting from scrapes with the wall at the 1.366-mile track where the high lane is the fastest. Might be called the "SAFER stripe" this weekend after the addition of the energy-absorbing barriers
There are three current race tracks the Cup Series runs on that Tony Stewart has not won at a Sprint Cup race:
Auto Club Speedway 0 for 18 with a best finish of 4th in 1999 & 2001, last race 2/2010 9th
Las Vegas 0 for 12 with a best finish of 2nd in 2000, last race 2/2010 7th
Darlington 0 for 17 with a best finish of 3rd in 2009
Stewart has won at 19 of 23 tracks he has raced on, didn't win at Rockingham which is no longer active for Cup racing.(2-28-2010)
Darlington Expands family section: Darlington Raceway will expand its family section seating for the 2010 Southern 500 announced track President, Chris Browning. Family sections will now be available on both straight-aways at Darlington Raceway. Wallace grandstand section V on the frontstretch and Colvin grandstand section X on the backstretch will be designated family sections. Each family section will be designated as a non-smoking, non-drinking seating option geared towards families. Family seating can be purchased today by contacting the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or visiting DarlingtonRaceway.com.(Darlington PR)(1-31-2010)
Darlington President wins Littlejohn Award: Darlington Raceway President, Chris Browning, was award the prestigious Joe Littlejohn award at the 2010 National Motorsport Press Association convention in Concord, N.C. Browning, who has served as Darlington Raceway President since 2004, was selected by the members of the NMPA because of his commitment and dedication to motorsports. During his tenure at Darlington, Browning has made the NMPA Hall of Fame - located in the Darlington Raceway Museum - a top priority and has overseen numerous facility improvements. The Joe Littlejohn award is given annually to an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the NMPA and motorsports.(Darlington Raceway)(1-29-2010)
Trucks to race at Darlington? UPDATE: Sirius NASCAR Radio's Sirius Speedway with host Dave Moody is reporting that the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series will compete at Darlington Raceway in August of this year, as a replacement for the now-canceled event at the Milwaukee Mile. Expect an official announcement during this week's NASCAR portion of the annual Media Tour.(Sirius Speedway PR)(1-19-2010)
UPDATE: been told that the date of the race will be August 14, 2010.(1-20-2010)
UPDATE: The NASCAR Camping World Truck Series will make a return to the track “Too Tough to Tame” on August 14, 2010 announced. “Our fans have asked us to bring back the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series because Darlington is a perfect fit for the tough racing the series offers,” said Darlington President Chris Browning. “We are excited to be able to bring back the trucks in 2010 and look forward to putting on a memorable show for all of our fans.” The NASCAR Camping World Truck Series raced at Darlington Raceway from 2001-04. The late Bobby Hamilton won the Inaugural event in 2001 and again in 2003. Ted Musgrave raced to Victory Lane in 2002 and Sprint Cup driver Kasey Kahne took the checkered flag in 2004 – the series’ last visit to the track. General admission seating is available for only $25 and children 12 and under will be admitted free. Each admission includes all practice and qualifying sessions as well as the Too Tough to Tame 200 which is set to take the green-flag at approximately 7:30 p.m. In addition to grandstand seating, fans may also purchase a pre-race pit pass for just $15 each. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at http://www.darlingtonraceway.com/tickets/.(Darlington Raceway)(1-20-2010)
Darlington opens ticket kiosk in Myrtle Beach: Darlington Raceway has opened up a ticket kiosk location in the popular Tanger Outlet center located on Highway 17 in Myrtle Beach, S.C. The kiosk opened the week of Thanksgiving and will remain open for the remainder of the year. Fans taking advantage of the opportunity to purchase tickets at the Tanger Outlet kiosk location will receive a DVD copy of the 2009 Southern 500. The race, won by fan favorite Mark Martin, was the marquee event during Darlington Raceway's 60th Season of Racing. Tickets to the 2010 Southern 500, as well as the NASCAR Nationwide Series Darlington 200 are on-sale now. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at http://www.darlingtonraceway.com/tickets/.(Darlington PR)(12-11-2009)
Darlington Raceway receives Landscape Design Award: Darlington Raceway has received the prestigious Landscape Design Award from the Landscape Critics Council of South Carolina. The award is given annually to a business in the state of South Carolina that exhibits well manicured and unique landscape displays. The award is voted on by members of the Landscape Critics Council of South Carolina. Darlington’s new tunnel entrance, infield camping areas, hospitality village and main administration entrance played a large role in swaying voters to select Darlington Raceway as the Landscape Design Award winner. Tickets to the 2010 Southern 500, as well as the NASCAR Nationwide Series Darlington 200 are on-sale now. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com.(Darlington Raceway)(10-26-2009)
Darlington reduces price on 40,000 seats: Tickets for the 2010 Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway go on-sale to the public this Saturday, October 10. The famed 500-mile race will once again take place on Saturday night of Mother's Day weekend and will be preceded by the Diamond Hill Plywood 200 on Friday evening. Fans purchasing tickets for the 2010 installment of the Southern 500 will notice new, lower prices in nearly every grandstand at Darlington Raceway. Officials at Darlington reduced ticket prices on over 40,000 seats during the off-season making attending the Southern 500 more affordable than ever. With ticket prices starting as low as $35 night-racing at Darlington is the best value on the Sprint Cup Circuit. Tickets for both events and the Darlington Stripe Zone can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at http://www.darlingtonraceway.com/tickets/.(Darlington Raceway PR)(10-8-2009)
Darlington Raceway slashes prices for 2010:: Ticket renewals for the 2010 Southern 500 [scheduled for May 8, 2010] are underway with prices reduced in nearly every grandstand making it more affordable than ever to attend the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race there. “We are always looking at ways to make attending a race at Darlington more affordable for our fans,” said track President, Chris Browning. “The new pricing structure makes the 2010 Southern 500 an even better value for NASCAR fans who love to see fender-banging, side-by-side racing and non-stop action.” The new ticket pricing, being rolled out with ticket renewals, is sure to be a hit among NASCAR fans. The new pricing model reduces ticket prices in four of the track’s five grandstands. The new pricing is as follows:
Grandstand, 2009 Price, 2010 Price, Savings
Wallace (Rows 3-6), $85, $59, $26
Colvin (Rows 15-21), $70, $59, $11
Pearson, $95, $90, $5
Brasington, $95, $90, $5
Additionally, fans that renew by the renewal deadline of September 18, 2009 will save an extra $5 per ticket purchased. The popular Darlington Raceway Premium Payment Plan also returns in 2010. Fans can choose the Darlington Raceway Premium Payment Plan which allows them to spread the cost of their tickets over four equal monthly payments when they use their Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover card to purchase their tickets. All renewal incentives are open to fans that purchased tickets in 2009 and wish to do so in 2010. To renew fans can go online to darlingtonraceway.com/renewals, call the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or mail in the renewal order form that they received in the mail. Fans that wish to purchase tickets for the 2010 Southern 500 but are not eligible for renewals may put in a seat request at DarlingtonRaceway.com or by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE.
Don’t miss the 2009 Darlington Historic Racing Festival presented by O’Reilly Auto Parts on Saturday September 26, 2009. The event will feature something for the entire family. Tickets for the event are $15 per day or $25 for the entire weekend, kids age 12 and under will be admitted free and each admission includes access to the garage and infield area. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 843-395-8802 or online at darlingtonraceway.com.(Darlington Raceway)(8-8-2009)
- Commemorative Darlington 60th Season DVD available: Darlington Raceway has worked with NASCAR Media Group to produce a special commemorative DVD of the 2009 Southern 500 presented by GoDaddy.com. Each DVD includes:
· Full broadcast length version of the 60th running of the Southern 500 presented by GoDaddy.com
· Downloadable screen savers for PC or MAC users
· Free 5X7 print from Officially licensed artist Stephen Balok
· Coupon from NASCAR.com
DVD’s can be purchased by visiting the track’s website, DarlingtonRaceway.com, for only $9.99 plus tax and shipping and handling.(Darlington Raceway)(6-1-2009)
- New emergency texting available to race patrons: International Speedway Corporation (ISC) has partnered with InStadiumSolutions to implement a text-message based communication system at all of its 12 motorsports facilities. The service was introduced last weekend during the NASCAR Nationwide and Sprint Cup races at Darlington Raceway. The system allows fans to communicate with the racetrack's command post if assistance is needed inside the facility. The technology was tested at Homestead-Miami Speedway last November during the final weekend of the NASCAR season. Instructions will be posted throughout each racetrack and will be broadcast through audio and video public announcements. Besides Darlington and Homestead-Miami, ISC owns and/or operates Daytona, Talladega, Michigan, Richmond, Auto Club Speedway, Kansas, Phoenix, Chicago, Martinsville and Watkins Glen. The Fan Text Messaging Service is also being used by several professional and college teams, as well as at events such as the Super Bowl, BCS National Championship and World Baseball Classic.(Associated Press)(5-14-2009)
- Darlington has about 5,000 tickets left: It could take nice weather and motivated NASCAR fans to continue a string of sellouts at Darlington. Darlington Raceway spokesman Jake Harris said in an e-mail Thursday there were fewer than 5,000 seats available for Saturday night's Southern 500. Darlington leaders are hopeful they can sell out their fifth straight Mother's Day weekend race. Darlington seats about 62,000. The track had gone several races without selling out until 2005, when it first began holding a Saturday race under its newly installed lights. Darlington has sold out each season since. In January, Darlington officials cut prices on some tickets by $10. The track also recently announced price cuts at concessions for the upcoming race.(Associated Press)(5-8-2009)
- Yarborough and Waltrip added to Darlington Legends Walk: Fans attending the Southern 500 presented by GoDaddy.com this weekend will be able to take a trip down memory lane at Darlington Raceway. Monuments honoring the careers of Cale Yarborough and Darrell Waltrip have been added to the Darlington Legends Walk behind the Tyler tower grandstand behind the frontstretch. Each marker is made of granite and marble, resembles a Goodyear racing tire and old style pit board and weighs nearly 2,300 pounds. “Adding Cale and Darrell to the Darlington Legends Walk is the perfect way to honor their respective careers at Darlington Raceway,” said track president Chris Browning. “We hope fans enjoy reading about Cale and Darrell’s careers at Darlington Raceway and reminiscing about their place in history at Darlington.” Tickets to the Southern 500 and Nationwide Series race can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com.(Darlington Raceway PR)(5-7-2009)
- Darlington hoping for another sellout: Several times a day, Darlington Raceway president Chris Browning walks over to the track's ticket office to get a progress report on sales. Recently, he's liked what he's seen. Even so, a fifth consecutive sellout for the historic facility is far from certain as Darlington gears up for Saturday night's revival of the Southern 500. "We're slightly behind where we were this point last year. If we sell it out, it's going to come down to the wire," Browning said Monday. "We're still optimistic we've got a shot at it. We had a great week last week. About the last probably two and half, three weeks, our daily sales have beaten the daily sales of the previous year. That's all positive." Darlington has sold out four consecutive races since its lone event was moved to the Saturday of Mother's Day weekend prior to the 2005 season. This year the track is bringing back a Southern 500 race name that was a fixture at the South Carolina facility from its founding in 1950 until 2004, when it was phased out. With a seating capacity of roughly 62,000, Darlington is one of the smaller facilities on the Cup Series tour. Yet the track is bidding to become only the third venue this season -- along with Daytona and Bristol -- to announce a sellout. In past years, Darlington sold out a week or more in advance. That was before the current economic recession, which has made it very difficult for many tracks to sell tickets. "We have a shot at it, but everything's going to have to line up perfectly for us to do it. But we still do have a shot at it," Browning said. "I know that if we sell it out, it will probably end up being on race day."(NASCAR.com)(5-6-2009)
- Darlington welcomes Car Hauler Parade: The Darlington Car Hauler Parade and Festival will be 4 to 7:30pm Thursday, May 7th at the Florence [SC] Civic Center with entertainment and live music performed by Southern rock and country band Southern Blue. NASCAR transporters and take pictures next to your favorite team’s haulers. Meet the hauler drivers and get autographs plus free give-a-ways from vendors. Kids can enjoy the multiple inflatable rides and games throughout the fun-filled festival. Fans, join in on the exciting Silent Auction full of great NASCAR items and more to benefit the American Red Cross. At 7pm the parade of Sprint Cup Series haulers begins to make its way along the 12-mile route to Darlington Square, where the anticipating crowd celebrates with added live entertainment and the fireworks of Race Fest. Florence welcomes NASCAR to the Darlington Race track that’s “Too Tough to Tame” for the Mother’s Day weekend races.(Florence Civic Center)(5-6-2009)
- Darlington lowers concession prices: In an effort to reduce costs for fans attending the 2009 Southern 500 presented by GoDaddy.com Darlington Raceway and Americrown, the track’s concessionaire, have reduced prices on some food and beverage items and added value meals to the menu. Highlights of the new menu include:
· Reduced price on regular all-beef hot dog to $3, a 25% savings
· Hot dog and fry combo meal for $5 – a $2 savings
· Cheeseburger and fry combo meal for $7 – a $2 savings
· Kids Value Meal with peanut butter and jelly sandwich, cookie, fruit roll-up and half pint of milk for $4
· Reduced price on Dasani bottled water to $3, a 25% savings
In addition to the reduced prices fans will also notice two new signature Darlington items on the menu, the Darlington Super Slaw Dog and the Carolina Pulled Pork BBQ Sandwich with Coleslaw. Priced at $5, the Darlington Super Slaw Dog is 1/3 pound, all beef hot dog served with coleslaw and other hot dog condiments. Also new for 2009 in the Carolina pulled pork BBQ sandwich with coleslaw served on a Kaiser roll with a choice of mustard style BBQ, vinegar style BBQ or Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ and is priced at $6.
Be a part of history when Darlington Raceway celebrates 60 years of racing in 2009. Tickets to the 2009 Southern 500 presented by GoDaddy.com, as well as the NASCAR Nationwide Series Diamond Hill Plywood 200 are on-sale now. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com.(Darlington Raceway PR)(5-4-2009)
- Yarborough to serve as Darlington Pace Car Driver: As part of the celebration of 60 Years of Racing at Darlington Raceway, Cale Yarborough will serve as the honorary pace car driver to start the 2009 Southern 500 presented by GoDaddy.com announced track President Chris Browning. “We couldn’t be more excited to have Cale pace the field for the Southern 500 presented by GoDaddy.com,” said Browning. “Cale’s record of five Southern 500 wins makes him the perfect candidate to pace the field for the return of the Southern 500.” Yarborough, a native of nearby Timmonsville, S.C., is tied with Jeff Gordon for the most wins in the Southern 500 with five. In addition to Cale Yarborough several other former Darlington Raceway winners will be honored during pre-race ceremonies prior to the Southern 500 presented by GoDaddy.com. All-time Darlington victory leader David Pearson, Richard Petty, Ned Jarrett, Buddy Baker and Sterling Marlin will also be honored along with all active Darlington winners. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com.(Darlington Raceway PR)(4-25-2009)
- Darlington walls go retro for Southern 500: When spectators and competitors arrive at Darlington Raceway for the May 9th Southern 500 presented by GoDaddy.com everyone will notice one distinct difference – red and white retaining walls surrounding the track “Too Tough to Tame.” “Giving the most famous walls on the NASCAR circuit a retro facelift seemed very fitting as part of our 60th celebration,” said track President, Chris Browning. “This is the first time since 1989 that the walls have been painted anything but white and it certainly reminds me of the early days of NASCAR racing.” The walls are painted in 40-foot sections alternating red and white and took nearly 50 hours and 315 gallons of paint to complete. In addition to the red and white paint scheme, a retro font was used for the Darlington Raceway signage at the start/finish line. Tickets to the 2009 Southern 500 presented by GoDaddy.com, as well as the NASCAR Nationwide Series Diamond Hill Plywood 200 are on-sale now. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at http://www.darlingtonraceway.com/tickets/.(Darlington Raceway PR)(4-20-2009)
- Darlington Raceway Tix Office Extends Hours: In an effort to make it easier for race fans to purchase tickets the Darlington Raceway ticket office will now be open every Saturday and Sunday through the Southern 500 on May 9 track President Chris Browning announced today. In addition to the normal operating hours of 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday the ticket office will now be open from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays and 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Sundays. “We know it can be tough for our fans to get out of work and get to the ticket office by 5:00 p.m. on weekdays,” said Browning. “Opening on the weekends and extending our hours during the week is something we wanted to do to make it easier for our fans to purchase tickets.” Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com.(Darlington Raceway PR)(4-18-2009)
- Darlington Unveils Johnny Mantz Trophy: The winner of the 2009 Southern 500 presented by GoDaddy.com will be the recipient of a very special piece of hardware - the Johnny Mantz Southern 500 trophy. Named after Inaugural Southern 500 winner Johnny Mantz, the new trophy replaces the crystal palmetto tree that was used since Darlington began running on Mother's Day weekend in 2005. The four-tiered trophy stands approximately three feet tall, weighs nearly 40 pounds and features engraved photos of all 43 past Darlington Raceway winners. Longtime Darlington Raceway ticket holder, Kent Lewis, came up with the design concept for the trophy. The trophy was created by American Trophy in Florence, S.C. and following the 2009 Southern 500 presented by GoDaddy.com will be placed in the Darlington Raceway Museum year-round for fans to view.(Darlington Raceway PR)(4-16-2009)
- GoDaddy.com to be presenting sponsor of Southern 500: GoDaddy.com, the world's dominant Web hosting domain registrar, has signed on to become the presenting sponsor of the 2009 Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway, track president Chris Browning announced. The Southern 500 presented by GoDaddy.com will be run on May 9, 2009. Be a part of history when Darlington Raceway celebrates 60 years of racing in 2009. Tickets to the 2009 Southern 500® presented by GoDaddy.com, as well as the NASCAR Nationwide Series Diamond Hill Plywood 200 are on-sale now. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at http://www.darlingtonraceway.com/tickets/.(Darlington Raceway PR)(4-13-2009)
- Pre-Race Concert at Darlington: Fans attending the 2009 Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway are in for an extra special treat this year. As part of the celebration of 60 Years of Racing at Darlington Raceway Vault will be hosting an exclusive pre-race concert by Mercury Nashville Recording artist Billy Currington on the frontstretch during the 2009 Southern 500 pre-race show. In addition to a pre-race concert, Currington will also perform the National Anthem prior to the Southern 500. Be a part of history when Darlington Raceway celebrates 60 years of racing in 2009. Tickets to the 2009 Southern 500, as well as the NASCAR Nationwide Series Diamond Hill Plywood 200 are on-sale now. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com.(Darlington Raceway)(4-7-2009)
- South Carolina declares Darlington Raceway Week: The week of the Southern 500 will take on an even more important meaning in 2009. The South Carolina Senate and House of Representatives passed a Concurrent Resolution declaring race week Darlington Raceway Week in South Carolina, a week “Too Tough to Tame.” Darlington Raceway president Chris Browning took part in the announcement at the State House. In addition to the announcement of the Concurrent Resolution, Darlington Raceway officials also unveiled the findings of a recently completed economic impact study conducted by Washington Economics Group, Inc. Darlington Raceway or the track “Too Tough to Tame” as it is known to many, is where the purest of NASCAR competition meets true southern hospitality. A NASCAR staple since 1950, Darlington Raceway has seen some of motorsports most talented drivers thunder to Victory Lane. In 2009 a NASCAR tradition, the Southern 500, will return as Darlington Raceway celebrates 60 Seasons of Racing. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com.(Darlington Raceway PR)(4-1-2009)
- Darlington Raceway generates #54 million for area: A study by the Washington Economics Group, Inc. has found that Darlington Raceway generates an annual economic benefit of $54 million for the Pee Dee region and state of South Carolina, including the creation of 874 jobs in the region. The economic impact study was conducted over a period of several months and utilized the IMPLAN model, which quantifies the direct and indirect benefits of economic activity. In addition to identifying the total economic impact of $54 million, the study also found that:
· NASCAR events and other activities throughout the year at Darlington Raceway result in $19 million of labor income for workers throughout South Carolina annually, benefiting workers in all sectors of the state’s economy.
· These activities are also an important source of fiscal revenues. Each year these activities produce over $7.9 million for federal, state and local governments. Of this total, $3.4 million flow directly to state and local governments.
· Year round track operations contribute $30 million annually toward South Carolina’s gross state product. Referred to by economists as “value added,” this is the portion of business revenues that provides compensation to workers and capital income. Value added is also the principle source of income to households and a key measure of Darlington Raceway’s ongoing contributions to the South Carolina economy. Darlington Raceway hosts two major NASCAR races a year, the Southern 500 and the Diamond Hill Plywood 200. Additionally, the track “Too Tough to Tame” also hosts the Darlington Historic Racing Festival each September celebrating the history of oval track racing. During the 2008 Southern 500, Darlington Raceway hosted fans from all 50 states and more than 7 different countries.(Darlington Raceway PR)(3-30-2009)
- All You Can Eat Tix Package returns at Darlington: The immensely popular all-you-can-eat Colvin Grill ticket package will return for the 2009 Southern 500. Ticket packages start at $50 and can be purchased by calling 1-866-459-RACE or logging onto DarlingtonRaceway.com. Each package includes seating in the Colvin grandstand and unlimited hamburgers, hot dogs, potato chips and soft drinks in the Colvin Grill. “The Colvin Grill all-you-can-eat ticket package was a tremendous success in 2008,” said Browning. “This ticket package is a way to reward our loyal fans with a low cost option to attend the 2009 Southern 500 during our 60th Season of Racing.” Additionally, fans who have already purchased tickets for the 2009 Southern 500 or plan to purchase tickets in a grandstand other than Colvin may add the all-you-can-eat package to their existing ticket for only $15 per person. Each fan who takes advantage of this unique offer will receive a special wristband valid for admission to the Colvin Grill adjacent to the Colvin grandstand outside of turn 2 at Darlington Raceway. The grill will open at 5:00 p.m. on May 9th and will close at 7:00 p.m. Fans are encouraged to act quickly as only a limited number of Colvin Grill ticket packages are available. Be a part of history when Darlington Raceway celebrates 60 years of racing in 2009. Tickets to the 2009 Southern 500, as well as the NASCAR Nationwide Series Diamond Hill Plywood 200 are on-sale now. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com.(Darlington Raceway PR)(3-10-2009)
- Fans can vote for Darlington Raceway Top Moment: Fans of Darlington Raceway are being put to the ultimate test – voting on the most memorable moment in the 60 year history of the track “Too Tough to Tame.” Online voting begins today on the track’s website – DarlingtonRaceway.com.
Fans will be able to select one of the following moments as the top moment in Darlington Raceway history:
· 1950, Inaugural Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway.
· 1965, Ned Jarrett wins Southern 500 by largest margin in NASCAR history, 14 laps.
· 1967, Richard Petty records his 55th career victory at Darlington, pushing him past his father Lee on the all-time wins list.
· 1968, South Carolina natives David Pearson and Cale Yarborough record their first Darlington victories. Pearson goes on to win a total of 10 races at the Lady in Black while Yarborough wins a record five Southern 500’s in his career.
· 1977, Darrell Waltrip wins his first Superspeedway race beating Bobby Allison, Richard Petty and David Pearson in dramatic fashion.
· 1980, David Pearson wins his 10th and final race at Darlington Raceway. It was Pearson’s 105th and final career victory.
· 1982, Dale Earnhardt breaks his 39 race winless streak and wins the Rebel 500. It was Earnhardt’s first of nine Darlington wins.
· 1985, Bill Elliott wins the first ever Winston Million in the Southern 500.
· 1995, Jeff Gordon wins his first race at Darlington Raceway in the Southern 500.
· 1999, Jeff Burton wins the historic 50th running of the Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway.
· 2003, In the 100th Sprint Cup race at Darlington Raceway Ricky Craven beats Kurt Busch in dramatic fashion. Craven’s margin of victory is .002 second and is a NASCAR record that still stands today.
· 2005 – 2006, Greg Biffle wins back-to-back events at the track “Too Tough to Tame.”
Fans are encouraged to check DarlingtonRaceway.com often to keep up with the poll results. The top Darlington Raceway Moment will be announced prior to the 2009 Southern 500. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com.(Darlington Raceway PR)(2-23-2009)
- Darlington Historic Racing Festival Returns: After a successful Inaugural event, the Darlington Historic Racing Festival is set to return in 2009, announced Darlington Raceway President, Chris Browning. The event will once again be run on a Saturday and Sunday, September 26-27. The event was moved from its original Labor Day weekend date to help accommodate more entries in 2009. The 2008 festival was highlighted with appearances by some of NASCAR’s all-time greats including: David Pearson, Junior Johnson, Darrell Waltrip, Buddy Baker, Bobby and Donnie Allison, Marvin Panch and many more. There was plenty for fans to see and do at the festival throughout the weekend. In addition to question and answer and autograph sessions with the NASCAR legends, over 125 cars were on display at the event with nearly 100 of the cars turning laps on the historic 1.366-mile egg-shaped oval. The two-day festival is slated to take place on September 26 and 27 with single day tickets available for $15 or two-day tickets for $25. Children 12 and under will once again be admitted for free. More info at darlingtonraceway.com.(Darlington Raceway PR)(1-29-2009)
- Tix prices reduced for Southern 500 at Darlington: In an effort to help race fans during these difficult economic times, Darlington Raceway is reducing ticket prices on nearly 9,000 seats for the 2009 Southern 500, track president Chris Browning announced. All seats in rows 3-14 in the Colvin grandstand will now be only $35, a $10 discount off the original price. “We are celebrating a historic milestone in 2009 with the 60th Season of Racing at Darlington Raceway and we want to make sure that our fans can be here for this special event,” said Browning. “We recognize that economic times are tough for everyone right now and want to do our part to help reduce the cost of attending an event at Darlington Raceway.” Since moving to Mother’s Day weekend in 2005, Darlington Raceway has sold out four consecutive Sprint Cup Series events. To purchase tickets for the 2009 Southern 500 contact the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 843-395-8802 or online at darlingtonraceway.com.(Darlington Raceway PR)(1-8-2009)
- 2009 Southern 500 tix on sale Saturday: After many long months of waiting, tickets for the 2009 Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway go on-sale to the public this Saturday, September 20. Darlington Raceway will celebrate 60 years of racing in 2009 and the celebration will begin with the Nationwide Series Diamond Hill Plywood 200 on Friday, May 8. On Saturday, May 9, one of NASCAR’s most revered races returns to Darlington Raceway – the Southern 500. The Southern 500, known by many as NASCAR’s greatest annual challenge, will be run under the lights for the first time ever at the track “Too Tough to Tame.” Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com/tickets/.(Darlington Raceway PR)(9-18-2008)
- Southern 500 returns to Darlington: Old and new traditions will unite during the 60th season of racing at Darlington Raceway when the Southern 500 name returns to the track "Too Tough to Tame" on Mother's Day weekend in 2009, track president Chris Browning announced today. In 2009 the annual Sprint Cup Series race at Darlington Raceway is sure to be an even bigger spectacle as the race will once again be known as the Southern 500. A track rich in tradition, Darlington Raceway ran the first Southern 500 on September 4, 1950. Californian Johnny Mantz drove to victory that day after starting in the back of a 75-car field. The tradition continued for 54 years with Jimmie Johnson winning the last Southern 500 in 2004. Beginning in 2005 a new tradition began at Darlington Raceway: Saturday night racing on Mother's Day weekend. Fans have turned out in full force to see the stars of NASCAR dance with the "Lady in Black" under the
lights. The event has quickly become one of the most difficult tickets to get on the NASCAR schedule and has sold out for four consecutive years. Ticket renewal orders are being accepted now for fans that purchased tickets to the Sprint Cup Series event in 2008 more info at 866-459-RACE or online at darlingtonraceway.com.(Darlington Raceway PR)(8-14-2008)
- Darlington Ticket Renewal Underway: After four consecutive sellouts tickets to the Sprint Cup Series event at Darlington Raceway are becoming some of the most coveted tickets on the NASCAR circuit. Fans that purchased tickets to the 2008 Dodge Challenger 500 at Darlington Raceway can begin renewing their seats now for the 2009 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event weekend at Darlington Raceway. 2009 marks the 60th season of racing at the track "Too Tough to Tame" and customers that renew their seats before the deadline of August 18, 2008 are being offered several renewal incentives. All incentives are open to fans that purchased tickets in 2008 and wish to do so in 2009. To renew fans can go online to http://www.darlingtonraceway.com/renewals, call the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or mail in the renewal order form that they received in the mail.(Darlington Raceway PR)(7-15-2008)
- No talks, but Darlington president wouldn't be opposed to date change: MORE: While the Mother's Day date has worked for Darlington Raceway, raceway president Chris Browning said he wouldn't be opposed to moving it back to Labor Day weekend if an opportunity ever came up. The track hosted the Southern 500 on Labor Day weekend from 1950-2003. The final Southern 500 was run in November of 2004. "We wouldn't be opposed to it at all," Browning said. "Nothing in the sport is ever set in stone."
Browning said there haven't been any talks on the subject, but attendance in California, which got the Labor Day weekend date, has been down since the first year. There were various Internet rumors earlier this year that California might swap its date with Atlanta. And Browning said if California's date would change, he would like first crack at it.
"We would hope (NASCAR) would come talk to us," he said.(Florence [SC] Morning News)(5-10-2008)
UPDATE: The romantic in Jim Hunter would love to see the Southern 500 back at his beloved Darlington Raceway. The pragmatist in NASCAR's chief spokesman is certain why it shouldn't. Seemingly ever since the Southern 500 left this country track for California Speedway on Labor Day weekend after 2004, whispers have abounded about a triumphant return to South Carolina where the race was run for 54 years. Hunter doesn't expect more changes."We could sell 55 to 58 thousand tickets here on Labor Day five years ago," Hunter said Saturday. "We moved it to California and they sell 90 or 92 (thousand) or something. From a business standpoint, that is a no-brainer."(Associated Press)(5-11-2008)
- Sprint Cup race at Darlington Sold Out: For the fourth consecutive time since the race moved to Mother's Day weekend in May 2005, reserved grandstand seating for the 2008 Dodge Challenger 500 is a sellout, Darlington Raceway President Chris Browning announced today. "The staff at Darlington Raceway has worked harder than ever to reach a sellout crowd for the 2008 Dodge Challenger 500," said Browning. "Four consecutive sellout crowds for the Dodge Challenger 500 shows the overwhelming support we receive from NASCAR fans in South Carolina, the United States and around the world." Race tickets have been sold in 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii, and the District of Columbia as well as several countries around the world. Infield admissions for Saturday's Dodge Challenger 500 are still available and can be purchased by calling 866-459-RACE.(Darlington Raceway PR)(5-9-2008)
- Mother's Day tribute at Darlington: The mothers of the Sprint Cup drivers will join their sons during Saturday's prerace festivities at Darlington Raceway. The mothers will be introduced with their sons during driver introductions. They also will give the command for their sons to start their engines and begin the 500-mile race.(Delaware News Journal)(5-8-2008)
- Tix still available at Darlington; Dilner to grand marshal hauler parade: Economic times are tough and tough times call for a trip to the track "Too Tough to Tame."
Race fans looking for ways to spend their economic stimulus payments from the federal government need look no further than the Dodge Challenger 500 race weekend, May 8-10 at Darlington Raceway. Fans who wish to spend some of their stimulus money at Darlington Raceway have plenty of options:
* Tickets to the Dodge Challenger 500: Ticket prices start as low as $45 and great seats on the frontstretch are still available. Tickets to the mother of all race tracks make a great Mother's Day gift.
* Tickets to the Diamond Hill Plywood 200: Ticket prices start as low as $30 and get you admission for a full day of on-track activity. Each Friday ticket includes Sprint Cup Series practice, Sprint Cup and Nationwide qualifying and the excitement of Nationwide Series racing under the lights at Darlington - an amazing deal, all for only $30.
* Darlington Raceway Stock Car Museum and NMPA Hall of Fame: Are you an old school NASCAR fan? We have got the answer for you; a trip to the Darlington Raceway Stock Car Museum and National Motorsports Press Association (NMPA) Hall of Fame. The Darlington Raceway Stock Car Museum and NMPA are located just behind the Colvin grandstands at Darlington Raceway. Fans who tour the museum will be treated to some of the most legendary cars of NASCAR's yesteryear, including the Plymouth Johnny
Mantz drove to victory in the first Southern 500 in 1950. Fans can see all of this and much more for only $5.40.
* Driver Gear: Still trying to get your wardrobe up-to-date with your driver's new colors for 2008? Look no further than the gift shop at Darlington Raceway. The gift shop at Darlington Raceway can help get you outfitted in the latest driver apparel for your favorite driver. Located behind the Colvin grandstand, the Darlington Raceway gift shop carries
all of the latest in driver apparel, die-cast and other novelty items to help you show your support for your favorite driver.
* Darlington Stripe Zone: For fans looking for the ultimate Darlington Raceway experience look no further than the Darlington Stripe Zone. The pre-race Stripe Zone package includes: appearances by current Sprint Cup Series stars Clint Bowyer and Kasey Kahne, pre-race pit passes, a premium parking pass with each order, pre-race food and beverage, track souvenir, live entertainment, and additional giveaways. This package can be added to any grandstand ticket for the Dodge Challenger 500 for only $140.
AND SPEED television personality Bob Dillner will serve as Grand Marshal for the fourth annual Darlington Hauler Parade on Wednesday, May 7. Dillner is best known for his work covering NASCAR racing on various SPEED network programs including: NASCAR Victory Lane, NASCAR Live and The SPEED Report. In addition to covering racing, Dillner is also an owner/driver in various forms of Super Late Model racing, the Pro Challenge Series and Legends Car racing with drivers Zach Stroupe and his daughter Meghan. Don't miss your chance to see another incredible finish at Darlington Raceway when the stars of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series take on the track "Too Tough to Tame" in the Dodge Challenger 500 on May 10, 2008. The racing action kicks off with the Nationwide Series Diamond Hill Plywood 200 on May 9th. Order your tickets now by calling 1-866-459-RACE.(Darlington Raceway)(5-1-2008)
- Darlington National Anthem singer announced: South Carolina native and Mercury Recording artist, Julie Roberts, will perform the National Anthem prior to the 2008 Dodge Challenger 500 at Darlington Raceway. Roberts, the daughter of an engineer and an accountant, grew up singing country in Lancaster, S.C. Order tickets by calling 1-866-459-RACE.(Darlington Raceway)(4-16-2008)
- Have Mom wave the green flag at Darlington: Looking for that perfect Mother's Day gift for your mom? Dodge Boys Racing has got a great suggestion for you! Simply visit www.dodgeboysracing.com and enter the Wave the Green Flag contest. Your mother (and three guests) could win an all-expense-paid travel package to the Dodge Challenger 500 Sprint Cup race at Darlington Raceway over Mother's Day weekend. Then, on Saturday, May 10, 2008, she could Wave the Green Flag to start the race! Simply fill out the required information-including your 100-words-or-fewer essay on why your mother should be declared the best NASCAR mom-and click on the Submit button. Or, if you're a mom and you want to enter your own name, go right ahead. But you have to hurry. Entries must be received by April 10, 2008. Visit www.dodgeboysracing.com and nominate your mom today to Wave the Green Flag at Darlington. Don't miss your chance to see another incredible finish at Darlington Raceway when the stars of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series take on the track "Too Tough to Tame" in the Dodge Challenger 500 on May 10, 2008. The racing action kicks off with the NASCAR Nationwide Series Diamond Hill Plywood 200 on May 9th. Order your tickets now by calling 1-866-459-RACE(Darlington Raceway PR)(4-1-2008)
- 200 mph at Darlington: What a difference a paving makes: 200 miles per hour. That's how fast the Sprint Cup Series cars ran during Goodyear tire tests earlier this week at historic Darlington Raceway. That's not a miss-print. The Chevrolet of Jeff Gordon, the Ford of Greg Biffle and the Dodge of Daytona 500 winner Ryan Newman were all clocked unofficially at 200 mph at the end of this old track's smooth, newly re-paved backstretch. Darlington Raceway President Chris Browning almost couldn't believe it himself. "We had some of the telemetry numbers from the teams and I couldn't believe it when they told me they were hitting 200 mph at the end of the backstretch," said Browning. "That's incredible!" Jeff Gordon, a seven-time winner on the tricky, treacherous, 1.366-mile, egg-shaped oval, said the track was fast and smooth. "The old humps and bumps are gone," said Gordon. "It's still Darlington. It's just a lot smoother and a lot faster." Order tickts now by calling 1-866-459-RACE.(Darlington Raceway PR)(3-14-2008)
- Paving Complete at Darlington: Paving of the racing surface at Darlington Raceway has been completed, track President Chris Browning announced today. "This begins a new chapter in the history books at Darlington Raceway," said Browning. "We are very excited to be finished with the paving so that we can now focus on preparing for the upcoming Dodge Challenger 500 race weekend, May 8-10." Paving at Darlington Raceway began in mid-January, took nearly 15,000 tons of asphalt to complete and replaced a surface that was laid in 1994. Construction crews utilized 4 million reference points around the legendary track to ensure that the transitions in the corners and banking stayed true to the track's original design. The new racing surface was part of a $10 million capital improvement project that also included an infield access tunnel large enough to accommodate car haulers, motor homes and emergency vehicles and the addition of SAFER barrier walls to interior concrete walls on the frontstretch and backstretch. "All of the upgrades that we have completed during this capital improvement project will play a vital role in the future of Darlington Raceway," said Browning. Next up at the track "Too Tough to Tame" is a Goodyear tire test on March 10 and 11. The two-day test session will be the first time race cars have been on the new pavement and will include seven-time Darlington winner, Jeff Gordon, two-time Darlington winner, Greg Biffle and 2008 Daytona 500 champion, Ryan Newman. The test will be closed to the public, but fans can logon to darlingtonraceway.com for updates. Order tickets and Colvin Grill all-you-can-eat package now by calling 1-866-459-RACE(Darlington Raceway PR)(3-5-2008)
- Burton 1st driver to see new surface at Darlington: Construction crews working to repave Darlington Raceway received a visit from Sprint Cup Series driver Jeff Burton on Wednesday. Burton, driver of the #31 AT&T Mobility Richard Childress Racing entry, spent time talking with the crew working on the project and then went to work himself, driving a milling machine in turn 3. "I have never driven so slow at Darlington," joked Burton after he finished milling the asphalt in turn 3. "A project of this magnitude shows a commitment to Darlington Raceway, and that is something that race fans everywhere should be very pleased with." Burton, winner of the 50th Southern 500 (August 22, 1999), was also presented with a historic piece of the start-finish line by Darlington Raceway President, Chris Browning. Order your tickets and Colvin Grill all-you-can-eat package now by calling 1-866-459-RACE.(Darlington Raceway PR)(2-24-2008)
- Darlington Raceway Wall under assembly: The infamous wall that has dashed so many Darlington dreams and caused countless "Darlington Stripes" began
to take shape on Monday as crews re-assembled the outer SAFER barrier wall at Darlington Raceway. Paving began at the track "Too Tough to Tame" in the mid January and
with the outer groove of the track complete, construction crews are now focusing on finishing the racing surface and infield access tunnel in advance of the 2008 Dodge Challenger 500. The new asphalt surface at Darlington Raceway is part of a $10 million dollar capital improvement project that began following the 2007 Dodge Avenger 500. In addition to the new racing surface, work is also underway to complete a new infield access tunnel large enough to accommodate race car haulers, motorcoaches and emergency vehicles. Order your tickets and Colvin Grill all-you-can-eat package now by calling 1-866-459-RACE.(Darlington Raceway PR)(2-5-2008)
- New All-You-Can-Eat Ticket Package available at Darlington: Fans still in search of tickets for the May 10th Sprint Cup Series Dodge Challenger 500 at Darlington Raceway can now purchase an all-you-can-eat food and beverage ticket package to the new Colvin Grill. Ticket packages start at $60 for adults and $55 for children age 12 and
under and can be purchased by calling 1-866-459-RACE. Each package includes seating in the Colvin grandstand and unlimited hamburgers, hot dogs, snack items and soft
drinks in the Colvin Grill. Additionally, fans who have already purchased tickets for the 2008 Dodge Challenger 500 or plan to purchase tickets in a grandstand other than
Colvin may add the all-you-can-eat package to their existing ticket for only $15 per adult and $10 per child under 12. Each fan who takes advantage of this unique offer will receive a special wristband valid for admission to the Colvin Grill adjacent to the Colvin grandstand outside of turn 2 at Darlington Raceway. The grill will open two-hours prior to the scheduled start of the Dodge Challenger 500 on May 10th and will close at the scheduled start time of the race. Fans are encouraged to act quickly as only a limited number of Colvin Grill ticket packages are available.(Darlington Raceway PR)(1-29-2008)
- Paving begins at Darlington Raceway: Engine noise could be heard coming from historic Darlington Raceway on Monday well in advance of the 2008 Dodge Challenger 500. The engine noise came not from race cars, but from construction equipment being used to lay the first of two layers of new asphalt at the track "Too Tough to Tame." The new asphalt surface at Darlington Raceway is part of a $10 million dollar capital improvement project that began following the 2007 Dodge Avenger 500. In addition to the new racing surface work is also underway to complete a new infield access tunnel large enough to accommodate race car haulers, motorcoaches and emergency vehicles. Order tickets now by calling 1-866-459-RACE.(Darlington Raceway PR)(1-15-2008) Conversation
- Race Cars return to Darlington on Labor Day Weekend: Darlington Raceway officials announced the thundering roar of racing engines will once again resonate around the legendary 1.366-mile oval on Labor Day weekend next year with the inaugural Darlington Historic Racing Festival August 30-31, 2008. The Darlington Historic Racing Festival will feature legendary cars and drivers from a variety of racing series, including NASCAR and Indy Car, from the 1950’s through the 1970’s. The festival will offer both the young and seasoned race fan a chance to meet the drivers and see the machines that made auto racing the hugely popular sport it is today. Racing personalities who have already agreed to participate include legendary driver and car owner Junior Johnson, Daytona 500 winner Buddy Baker, three-time NASCAR Cup champion Darrell Waltrip, ten-time Darlington Raceway winner David Pearson, championship car owner Bud Moore and former driver Cotton Owens. The Darlington Historic Racing Festival will offer fans two days of excitement featuring question and answer sessions with the legends, exhibition laps by the historic race cars, autograph sessions, a large display and vendor area, car carousels, and a variety of other activities.
Tickets for the event are $15 per day or $25 for the entire weekend, kids age 12 and under will be admitted free. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE.(Darlington Raceway PR)(12-20-2007)
- Craven helping out with removing Darlington S/F line: Ricky Craven is set to visit Darlington Raceway on Wednesday, December 5th at noon to lend a hand in extracting the current start/finish line. A section of the start/finish line will be donated to the NASCAR Hall of Fame as part of an exhibit which will include Craven's winning car in the 2003 Carolina Dodge Dealers 500 race, the closest finish in NASCAR history.(Darlington Raceway PR)(12-1-2007)
- Darlington starts milling work on track: Construction crews at Darlington Raceway began milling the legendary track's surface last week. The milling process consists of grinding the existing asphalt surface an average of three-inches, and in some areas up to eight-inches, in preparation for the installation of the new surface. The milling process will be completed in approximately two-weeks.(Darlington Raceway PR)(11-30-2007)
- Darlington starts repaving: Another historical moment took place last week on the hallowed grounds of legendary Darlington Raceway as paving crews began the intimidating challenge of repaving NASCAR's first paved superspeedway. The $10-million repaving project includes new asphalt around the entire 1.366-mile oval, concrete pit stalls and a new infield access tunnel underneath turn three. All construction will be completed in time for the Dodge Challenger 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekend, May 8 - 10, 2008.(Darlington Raceway PR)(11-6-2007)
- Tickets for 2008 Darlington Races On-Sale Sept. 22: Darlington Raceway announced that tickets for the 2008 Dodge Challenger 500 weekend scheduled for May 9-10, will go on sale Saturday, September 22. This will be the first race on the recently repaved 1.366-mile high-banked egg-shaped oval known as the track "Too Tough To Tame". The Dodge Challenger 500, which has sold-out the past three consecutive years, will get the green flag under the lights at 7:00pm/et on Saturday night May 10th. Call the Darlington Raceway Ticket Office for more information or to order at 1-866-459-7223.(Darlington Raceway PR)(9-18-2007)
- Check out Darlington Paving Project: Fans can now keep up with the progress of Darlington Raceway's repaving and tunnel construction project online, thanks to a new link on the track's website featuring both photo and video galleries of the work in progress. Along with still photographs, short videos are also included on the page. The videos, in addition to giving fans a look at the actual work under way, will also feature comments from engineers involved with the project, Raceway staff members, and other special guests.
To access the paving page, simply log on to www.darlingtonraceway.com and click the link in the right-hand rail. The 2008 Carolina Dodge Dealers 500 weekend at Darlington is currently scheduled to include practice and qualifying for the Busch and Cup Series on Friday, May 9, followed by the Diamond Hill Plywood 200 that evening. On Saturday night, May 10, Darlington Raceway will host Cup Series racing for the 59th consecutive year when the green flag waves to signal the start of the Carolina Dodge Dealers 500. Jeff Gordon, a seven-time winner at Darlington, is the defending champion. Seat requests are now available for all events. For tickets or more information, call toll-free at 866.459.RACE (7223).(Darlington Raceway PR)(8-6-2007)
- 2008 Darlington Raceway Renewal Process Currently Under Way: Renewal letters for next year's Carolina Dodge Dealers 500 weekend at Darlington Raceway were mailed on Friday, July 6. The renewal deadline is August 20. The track "Too Tough To Tame" is currently being repaved. The last time the track was repaved, in 1995, Ward Burton made fast work of the old record by posting a qualifying speed of 173.797 mph, a record that stands to this day. Fans renewing by the August 20 deadline will get the opportunity to drive paced laps on Darlington's brand-new asphalt on their choice of the following dates - March 29, April 5, or April 12, 2008. The 2008 Carolina Dodge Dealers 500 weekend is currently scheduled to include practice and qualifying for the Busch and Sprint Cup Series on Friday, May 9, followed by the Diamond Hill Plywood 200 that evening. On Saturday night, May 10, Darlington Raceway will host Cup Series racing for the 59th consecutive year when the green flag waves to signal the start of the Carolina Dodge Dealers 500. For tickets or more information, call toll-free at 866.459.RACE (7223).(Darlington Raceway PR)(7-12-2007)
- Darlington repaving starts: Sometimes, it is necessary to tear down before building up. To that end, Darlington Raceway's repaving project began on June 18 with the removal of the track's SAFER barriers. Darlington's SAFER (Steel and Foam Energy Reduction) barriers were installed in February 2004 and saw their first competition during the Carolina Dodge Dealers 400 weekend in March of that year. The summer solstice dawned on Darlington Raceway with a sense of déjà vu; the track's walls are currently concrete only. After completing Turns 3 and 4 earlier in the week, work on the retaining walls was finished on Wednesday afternoon, leaving the track looking rather like a special report on "The Weather Channel", featuring "hailstones the size of SAFER barriers." Scheduled completion date for the repaving project is November 30.(Darlington Speedway PR)(6-22-2007)
