- Interesting Streak: UPDATE: The past three winners of the fall race at Atlanta Motor Speedway have won at Texas Motor Speedway the following week [all three years since Texas got a 2nd date in 2005]. The year and winner: #48-Jimmie Johnson in 2007; #20-Tony Stewart; and #99-Carl Edwards.in 2005.(10-26-2008)
UPDATE: Make it 4 in a row with Edwards' win in the Dickies 500.(11-2-2008)
- AMS is looking for a Chief Lighting Officer: Atlanta Motor Speedway is conducting a national search for a Chief Lighting Officer, the shining star who will have the honor to flip the “switch” to turn on the lights before Atlanta’s first NASCAR Sprint Cup night race on Labor Day weekend. The search for the Chief Lighting Officer will seek out one glowing personality to turn it on for the crowd as they hit the lights before the first night race in Atlanta Motor Speedway’s storied history. The Chief Lighting Officer will receive a prize package arguably unlike any other in racing history, with VIP race access to Atlanta Motor Speedway, inclusion in the official race souvenir program, and the winner will be introduced during pre-race driver introductions.
Selected by a panel of Atlanta Motor Speedway employees, the Chief Lighting Officer will receive:
* Passes for both the Labor Day weekend night races on Sept. 5 and 6, 2009 with one guest
* Hotel and airfare to the races
* VIP-access
* A tour of race control
* An introduction on stage at driver introductions
* The honor to flip the “switch” to turn the lights on Sunday night
* A Sunday pre-race pace car ride with guest
* An official CLO shirt
* Featured in the official race souvenir program
To enter to become Atlanta Motor Speedway’s Chief Lighting Officer, visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com/CLO and explain why AMS should shine the spotlight on you before Atlanta’s first NASCAR Sprint Cup night race on Labor Day weekend. To purchase tickets to Atlanta Motor Speedway’s historic first night race, call the Atlanta Motor Speedway ticket office at 1-877-9-AMS-TIX, 770-946-4211 or visit atlantamotorspeedway.com.(AMS)(6-24-2009)
- Atlanta Motor Speedway Sells Out of Tent Camping: Having sold out of reserved tent camping, Atlanta Motor Speedway has opened two new campgrounds to accommodate fans attending AMS’ first NASCAR Sprint Cup night race on Labor Day weekend, Sept. 5 and 6. The Legends Reserved Tent Campground and Elliott Reserved Campground have been created by Atlanta Motor Speedway to meet surging camping demand for Atlanta’s first full weekend of night racing. Atlanta Motor Speedway’s Elliott Reserved Campground is located directly behind the Elliott Grandstand overlooking Turn 3 and will include two additional rows of camping for handicap patrons. The Elliott Reserved Campground also features a large number of sites adjacent to handicap camping for additional fans. Each RV spot is approximately 45 feet long by 25 feet and costs just $150. Shaded by a tree grove, the Legends Reserved Tent Campground is located between Atlanta Motor Speedway’s main entrance and the Legends Campground. With more than 230 campsites with dimensions of 20 feet by 30 feet for $125, the Legends Reserved Tent Campground will be one of the most desired camping locations on the Atlanta Motor Speedway property. For more information on camping or tickets to Atlanta Motor Speedway first Sprint Cup night race on Labor Day weekend, contact the Atlanta Motor Speedway ticket office at 1-877-9-AMS-TIX (877-926-7849), 770-946-4211 or visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com.(AMS)(6-9-2009)
- AMS sues Pep Boys over sponsorship: Atlanta Motor Speedway is suing Pep Boys over a payment dispute on a contract that called for the auto parts chain to pay $3 million for a two-year NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race sponsorship, according to court documents. Pep Boys has allegedly stopped making payments for the 2009 race, according to the lawsuit filed April 30 in Georgia Superior Court in Henry County, Ga. The suit says the deal was worth $1.4 million for the track’s 2008 fall race and $1.6 million for the 2009 fall race. According to the complaint, Pep Boys did not make the $800,000 payment due March 1, 2009, and the track is owed $1.6 million for the 2009 race. Although the contract states that the sponsorship is for “a fall NSCS Event,” SMI says in its complaint that Pep Boys did not object to the 2009 race being moved to Labor Day weekend before it was announced. According to the complaint, Pep Boys sent a letter saying it could terminate the contract because the track breached the agreement since the 2009 fall race is now “during the summer.” Atlanta Motor Speedway alleges that the wording in the contract prevents it from being terminated on those grounds.(SceneDaily)(5-8-2009)
- AMS announces ticket specials for Pep Boys Auto 500: If you haven't already purchased your tickets to the Pep Boys Auto 500 Sprint Cup night race at Atlanta Motor Speedway, the time is now. New and returning specials can be seen at atlantamotorspeedway.com. Because each ticket special features limited quantities, fans are encouraged to act now.(AMS PR)(4-29-2009)
- AMS announces Fan-Friendly Hotel/Motel List for Labor Day Weekend: Continuing a program to provide fans with reasonably-priced hotel accommodations when attending their NASCAR events, Atlanta Motor Speedway is working with approximately 30 Atlanta-area hotels who have agreed to offer fair rates and no multi-night minimums for fans traveling to Atlanta for the Sept. 5-6 Pep Boys Auto 500 weekend. Each participating hotel and motel is offering Atlanta Motor Speedway race attendees rooms priced at no more than $129 and some rates are as low as $60. Each participating hotel will not require multiple-night stays and will provide locked-in rates for fans using the promotion code, “AMS Discount.” A complete list of participating properties can be found below or can be accessed online at www.atlantamotorspeedway.com under the “Visitor’s Guide” tab.(AMS PR)(4-25-2009)
- Atlanta Motor Speedway Announces Ticket Specials for Labor Day Weekend: Atlanta Motor Speedway has announced a host of ticket specials for the Pep Boys Auto 500 Labor Day weekend of night racing, including $59 frontstretch tickets, in an effort to make Atlanta’s first Sprint Cup night race even more affordable for fans. Continuing past specials and introducing new offers, Atlanta Motor Speedway has introduced a complete list of ticket specials for Labor Day weekend, highlighted by a $59 frontstretch ticket in the Winners Grandstand. As a special offer for NASCAR-loving families, Atlanta Motor Speedway is admitting children ages 12 and under free of charge for Saturday’s Degree V12 300 Nationwide Race and NASCAR Sprint Cup Qualifying. Children must be accompanied by a parent with a regularly-priced Earnhardt Grandstand adult ticket and multiple children can accompany one adult ticket. Select sections in the Earnhardt Grandstand are designated as smoke/alcohol free to accommodate families. Because each ticket special features limited quantities, fans are encouraged to act now to receive these special rates by calling Atlanta Motor Speedway ticket office at 877-9-AMS-TIX (877-926-7849) or 770-946-4211, or purchasing tickets online at www.atlantamotorspeedway.com.(AMS PR)(4-22-2009)
- AMS Offering Free Cancer Screenings This Weekend: The Georgia Chapter of the Head and Neck Cancer Alliance will be conducting free cancer screenings this weekend from 9:00am to 1:00pm Saturday [March 7] in the vendor area of Atlanta Motor Speedway. Lori Hamilton, widow of the late driver Bobby Hamilton, has urged fans to take advantage of the free screenings. Hamilton passed away of head and neck cancer complications in January 2007. "It is my honor to continue this effort in his name because we've made so much progress with past years' screenings,” said Mrs. Hamilton. “Bobby would want us to press forward to reach more people with our message. The screening is quick, painless and free, so we are encouraging everyone to take advantage of this opportunity that could save your life.” People interested in more details about the free screening can contact Edie R. Hapner, PhD CCC-SLP, at (404) 686-7798.(3-6-2009)
- Flyover Announced for Kobalt Tools 500: Atlanta Motor Speedway has announced four T-38 Talons will conduct the flyover prior to the March 8 Kobalt Tools 500. Four T-38 Talons, the primary jet trainer for the United States Air Force, will conduct Sunday’s flyover for the Kobalt Tools 500. Conducted by the 12th Flying Training Wing, the T-38 Talons will be routed from Randolph Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.(AMS PR)(3-6-2009)
- AMS Adds Ticket Agents to Assist Walk-Up Crowd: Anticipating a strong walk-up crowd due to temperatures in the mid 70s for the Kobalt Tools 500 race weekend, Atlanta Motor Speedway has hired additional ticket agents to meet walk-up demands for this weekend’s events. The Speedway is expecting a strong walk-up crowd due to exceptional weather conditions, coming just one week after snow blanketed much of the Northern Georgia area. To prevent lengthy ticket lines, the Speedway has employed a number of part-time ticketing agents to assist customers. “With sunny conditions forecasted for all three days of the Kobalt Tools 500 race weekend, we wanted to ensure our staff is prepared to adequately serve a large number of walk-up patrons,” said Atlanta Motor Speedway president and general manager Ed Clark. “With two outstanding racing events on the schedule, we’re encouraging race fans to come out and enjoy the first great weather weekend in the Atlanta area this year while watching NASCAR racing action this weekend.”
With weather forecasts calling for the first spring-like weather of the season during the Kobalt Tools 500 race weekend – sunny skies and temperatures in the 70s – Atlanta Motor Speedway is encouraging fans to plan to bring sunscreen or purchase theirs at the track. Atlanta Motor Speedway souvenir stands have been stocked with additional sunscreen supplies to meet the anticipated demand during the weekend. For more information or tickets to the Kobalt Tools 500, contact the Atlanta Motor Speedway Ticket Office at 877-9-AMS-TIX (877-926-7849) or 770-946-4211, or visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com.(AMS PR)(3-6-2009)
- Atlanta Motor Speedway Declares “Georgia Peanut Famer Appreciation Day”: Atlanta Motor Speedway is declaring “Georgia Peanut Farmer Appreciation Day“ at the March 8 Kobalt Tools 500 Sprint Cup race in recognition of Georgia’s official state crop.
In a show of support to Georgia-based peanut farmers in lieu of the recent difficulties facing the industry, Atlanta Motor Speedway has partnered with the Georgia Peanut Commission to promote Georgia peanuts during the Kobalt Tools 500. The Georgia Peanut Commission will have a trackside billboard advertising Georgia peanuts, sampling opportunities on race day and a role in the Kobalt Tools 500 pre-race festivities. In addition, the Commission will have a sampling location and display in the Atlanta Motor Speedway Display Lot. A number of Georgia peanut farmers will be recognized as part of the pre-race activities. “Peanuts have been a staple in the Georgia agriculture economy for a long time and Atlanta Motor Speedway is proud to show our support of the industry,” said Atlanta Motor Speedway president Ed Clark. “Many of the farmers are fans who have attended our races for years and we are thrilled to have the opportunity to show them our support during this time of need.”
For more information or tickets to the Kobalt Tools 500, contact the Atlanta Motor Speedway Ticket Office at 877-9-AMS-TIX (877-926-7849) or 770-946-4211, or visit atlantamotorspeedway.com. For more information on Georgia peanuts and the Georgia Peanut Commission, visit www.gapeanuts.com.(AMS PR)(3-5-2009)
- Atlanta Traffic Plan for NASCAR Weekend: Due to next week's Kobalt Tools 500 race weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway, the south side of Atlanta will experience especially heavy traffic flow throughout the weekend. Traffic is expected to be heaviest during the Friday evening rush hour, as fans head to the track for Georgia Power Qualifying Night. Saturday afternoon will play host to the American Commercial Lines 200 Camping World Truck Series race. The weekend will culminate with Sunday’s (March 8) Kobalt Tools 500. Fans are encouraged to leave early, on Sunday, to avoid the increased traffic flow expected after 9 a.m.
Basic Traffic Plan for the Kobalt Tools 500 weekend (March 6-8): Fans have a choice of which major route to take, either Hwy. 19/41 or Hwy. 20 from I-75 southbound. I-75 northbound race fans can exit at either Exit 212 Hampton-Locust Grove Road or Exit 218, GA Hwy 20. Please choose which route to take based on where you would like to park on property; fans will be directed to a certain lot based on which way they enter the speedway. Trams, shuttle buses and sidewalks will allow fans to get to their seats easily regardless of where they park on property. Be advised that the direction fans enter speedway property is the same direction they will exit.
ENTERING THE SPEEDWAY:
From Hwy. 19/41:
FROM THE NORTH: Those traveling from the North (traveling southbound on Hwy. 19/41) will be directed to parking lots on the north side of the property and should utilize Speedway Blvd.
Those traveling south on Hwy. 19/41 will turn right at Speedway Boulevard and park in the yellow, red or green parking lots off of Speedway Blvd. Those with vehicle credentials need to stay in the left lane, use the counter-flow lane as they approach the speedway and enter just south of the main entrance at entrance E or at entrance G off of Richard Petty Blvd.
FROM THE SOUTH: Those traveling from the South (traveling northbound on Hwy. 19/41 from Griffin) will turn at the main speedway entrance and will be directed to the blue parking lot.
From Hwy. 20: Those traveling on Hwy. 20 will be directed to the Weaver or orange parking lot on the south side of the property.
EXITING THE SPEEDWAY:
Fans will leave the same way they came in. If they entered from the North, they will be directed northbound. Those who enter from the South will be directed southbound. For more information about the race weekend traffic plan, please contact Marcy Scott of Atlanta Motor Speedway at (770) 946-3951. For up-to-the-minute traffic updates during race weekend, please contact the traffic command center directly at (770) 707-5015. Georgia DOT urges travelers to call 511 for updated information about road/lane closures or construction projects. Georgia 511 is a free phone service that provides real-time traffic and travel information statewide, such as traffic conditions, incidents, lane closures, construction, and delays due to bad weather. Callers can also reach live operators to request assistance or report incidents 24 hours a day, seven days a week. More information is available at www.511ga.org.(AMS PR)(3-3-2009)
- Fan Tips for Those Attending the Kobalt Tools 500 Race Weekend: Below are some tips that will help ensure fans have a memorable, exciting visit to Atlanta Motor Speedway during the March 2009 Kobalt Tools 500 NASCAR race weekend.
* Gate Openings – Various gates will be open each day for fans to access the facility. The following is the schedule with opening times and gates available that day: Friday (12 p.m., gates 12, 13, 14 and 15), Saturday (9:00 a.m., gates 1, 12, 13, 14 and 15), Sunday (9 a.m., all gates).
* Important Note: For fans, Atlanta Motor Speedway provides a free shuttle and tram service from all parking lots to each grandstand.
* Nationwide Insurance Fan Assistance Patrol Program – The Nationwide Insurance Fan Assistance Patrol offers golf cart transportation and general assistance throughout the Atlanta Motor Speedway parking areas. This service is limited to the Atlanta Motor Speedway facility only, providing patrons with the ability to move to and from almost any area on the property. Patrons may inquire about any of these services at the Nationwide Insurance Information Booths located throughout the Atlanta Motor Speedway property.
* Atlanta Motor Speedway provides tram service between the campgrounds and the entrance gates before and after events and will depart regularly from the designated Nationwide tram stops. Tram passengers under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Trams are provided as a courtesy service to speedway guests. Due to the demand for this service, continuous riding (joyriding) is prohibited.
Campground tram route: Runs along inner perimeter road through all public parking and most camping areas.
Infield tram route: Runs from the guard house at the new tunnel into the infield along the road course.
* Nationwide Insurance Pit Stops – Nationwide is hosting two tented rest areas at the display lot. Stop by and relax for a few moments to help fight exhaustion during the race weekend.
* ATM Machines – Bank of America will have 12 ATM machines at various locations throughout the property. You will find ATM machines at gates 13 and 15 (will call). There are also locations in the Champions, Earnhardt, Petty and Elliott Grandstands, as well as near the infield concessions area.
* Camping Guidelines – Quiet time in all camping areas is from midnight to 7 a.m. (except Mid-State Family Campground) although we do allow the use of generators, we ask that you respect your neighbors and only use them when necessary. Also, no flatbed trucks (over 10 feet long), flatbed trailers, box trucks, or portable storage containers are allowed.
* Traffic Reports – Traffic information will be provided by WSB 750 AM. Tune in throughout the weekend for the latest traffic news. Georgia DOT urges travelers to call 511 for updated information about road/lane closures or construction projects. Georgia 511 is a free phone service that provides real-time traffic and travel information statewide, such as traffic conditions, incidents, lane closures, construction, and delays due to bad weather. Callers can also reach live operators to request assistance or report incidents 24 hours a day, seven days a week. More information is available at www.511ga.org.
* Beer Cut-Off Times – Beer sales will conclude with 50 laps left in each race. For your convenience, please be sure to make your purchases before this time.
* Outside Food- While we pride ourselves on providing a variety of food and drink options for our guests, visitors are welcome to bring their own items if they prefer. Coolers larger than 14”x14”x14” and glass bottles are not allowed inside the gates of the speedway. Planning ahead will make your entrance to the speedway much simpler for both our visitors and security officers alike.
* Handicapped Parking Enforcement – Handicapped parking areas will be strictly enforced for the Kobalt Tools 500 race weekend and misuse could result in being fined and/or towed. These areas are reserved for those fans with a handicap, not for those who plan to use a friend or relative’s handicap permit to gain access to these areas. The person who is the owner of the handicapped parking sticker is required to be in the vehicle.
* Ticket Resale – No tickets may be resold on Speedway property. This will be strictly enforced. Fans can also utilize TicketExchange, Ticketmaster's new online service that enables safe and secure fan-to-fan ticket transactions. Buyers simply select the tickets they want based on price and seat location, without having to bid against other buyers, without having to coordinate delivery from anonymous sellers, and without the gamble that the tickets are fraudulent. Sellers are guaranteed payment for tickets sold, without having to collect payment or deliver the tickets to the buyer.
* Directions to Atlanta Motor Speedway: Directions to AMS, including traffic patterns and facility maps can be found by visiting www.atlantamotorspeedway.com
* First- Aid: During race weekend, Atlanta Motor Speedway has Emergency Assistance locations in each grandstand as well as the Infield. Should you or anyone in your party require Emergency Assistance while you are on AMS property, please visit one of those locations or, if needed, dial 911.
For more information on race weekend or to answer any questions you may have please visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com or call (770)-707-7904.(AMS PR)
- AMS Announces Performers for Aflac Pre-Race Show: Atlanta Motor Speedway has announced three performers – Richie McDonald, Craig Campbell and Chris Hatfield – for the Aflac Pre-Race Show prior to the running of the Kobalt Tools 500 on Sunday, March 8. McDonald, the former lead singer for platinum-selling band Lonestar, will sing the National Anthem, while Campbell and Hatfield will perform mini-concerts as part of the Aflac Pre-Race Show. In addition to McDonald, Campbell and Hatfield, singer Megan Peeler will perform the National Anthem prior to Saturday’s American Commercial Lines 200 and the duo The Two Timers will sing the Anthem before Friday’s Georgia Power Qualifying Night. For more information or tickets visit atlantamotorspeedway.com or call (770)-707-7904.(AMS PR)(3-2-2009)
- Drivers to Conduct Fan Forums at Speedway Motorsports Races: NASCAR drivers and Speedway Motorsports are teaming up to bring fans closer to their favorite drivers than ever before. The new "PRN Up To SPEED" program will bring NASCAR's top names out for fan forums at the SPEED Stage during each of the 13 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race weekends at Speedway Motorsports' seven speedways across the country. The Performance Racing Network's on-air personalities will emcee question-and-answer sessions with some of the sport's biggest personalities at the SPEED Stage leading up to SPEED's regularly scheduled weekend programming.
"PRN Up To SPEED" will kick off Sunday at 9:30am/et, at the SPEED Stage located in the Las Vegas Motor Speedway midway. The stellar lineup will include Las Vegas-native Kyle Busch, legendary NASCAR team owner Richard Childress, and four-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Jeff Gordon. Each Speedway Motorsports track [Atlanta, Bristol, Infineon, Las Vegas, Lowe's, New Hampshire, Texas] that hosts a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race will hold "PRN Up To SPEED" sessions during their respective race weekend. The location of the SPEED Stage may vary from track to track, but at all Speedway Motorsports facilities, the stage is always located in an area where access is free of charge for fans.(SMI PR)(3-1-2009) Comment here
- Atlanta Motor Speedway Renovating Infield Hospitality Village: Atlanta Motor Speedway is conducting a two-phased renovation of the facility’s unique infield hospitality area with the first phase slated for completion prior to the Speedway’s March 8 Kobalt Tools 500 race date. The renovation, which will include an extension of the current hospitality area, the paving of gravel lots and infrastructure improvements, will allow the Speedway to better serve its corporate clients through the use of the improved hospitality facilities. The first phase is set for completion before the Kobalt Tools 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup race date at Atlanta Motor Speedway on March 8. Phase one will include the paving of gravel lots used for the infield hospitality area and the development of a new entrance into the hospitality area. The renovation’s second phase, slated to begin after the March race date and be completed before Atlanta Motor Speedway’s Labor Day weekend race date, will extend the current hospitality space and provide finishing touches to the infield hospitality area. In addition to the current hospitality renovations, the motorsports and multi-use facility also renovated its luxury suites in 2005. In 2006, the Speedway added Club One, a premier 704-seat public luxury suite with theatre-style seating and rooftop-viewing access.(AMS PR)(2-22-2009)
- First 1,000 Atlanta Motor Speedway Racing Roulette Tix Gone in 15 Mins.: After arriving Sunday at 1:15 p.m. and camping overnight, Amber Lee of McDonough was the first in line for Atlanta Motor Speedway’s Racing Roulette promotion that began at 9:00am on Monday. For the Racing Roulette promotion, the first 1,000 tickets sold Monday for the Kobalt Tools 500 were sold at $17 to commemorate Matt Kenseth’s win in the Daytona 500. All 1,000 tickets were sold in approximately 15 minutes. Lee was the first in a long line of enthusiastic fans, many of which stayed at the Speedway overnight, to ensure their $17 tickets to the March 8 Kobalt Tools 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway. The Racing Roulette promotion continues through 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday with a buy one regular-priced $95 ticket, get the second for $17 deal. Fans can continue to purchase Racing Roulette tickets by calling the Atlanta Motor Speedway ticket office at 1-877-9-AMS-TIX (877-926-7849), by visiting www.atlantamotorspeedway.com.(AMS PR)(2-17-2009)
- Atlanta Motor Speedway’s Racing Roulette Returns for 2009: After tremendous response a year ago, Racing Roulette returns to Atlanta Motor Speedway in what could result in the lowest-ever ticket prices for the March 8 Kobalt Tools 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway. Fans will have the opportunity to purchase Kobalt Tools 500 tickets for the price of the winning car number of Sunday’s Daytona 500. Regularly priced at $95, the first 1,000 tickets will be sold with a limit of two per customer at the discounted rate starting at 9am on Monday, Feb. 16. While the 2008 Roulette promotion featured just 1,000 tickets, the 2009 Racing Roulette contest will be available to all fans wishing to buy tickets through 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 17 or until all of the Speedway’s $95 tickets are sold. For those who miss out on the initial 1,000 tickets sold, fans can purchase additional tickets at a discount of buy one regularly-priced ticket, get the second ticket for the price of the winning Daytona 500 car number. Atlanta Motor Speedway introduced the Racing Roulette program a year ago and quickly sold 1,000 $12 tickets following Ryan Newman’s victory in the 2008 Daytona 500. Adding to the intrigue of the 2009 Racing Roulette promotion, the #1 Bass Pro Shops Chevrolet of Martin Truex Jr. and the #5 Kellogg’s Chevrolet of Mark Martin hold the front row starting spots for Sunday’s Daytona 500. In the race’s history, the winner has come from the front row more than 30 percent of the time. For more information or to purchase Racing Roulette tickets following the Daytona 500, fans can visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com, call 1-877-9-AMS-TIX (877-926-7849).(AMS PR)(2-11-2009)
- AMS partners with local hotels to cap rates: In an ongoing effort to make attending Atlanta Motor Speedway NASCAR events more economically feasible for its fans, Atlanta Motor Speedway has partnered with local hotels to offer fans discounted room rates for the Kobalt Tools 500 race weekend. Atlanta Motor Speedway is working with more than 20 area hotels to provide NASCAR fans with rooms priced at $125 or less. Each cooperating hotel will not require multiple-night stays and will provide locked-in rates for fans using promotion code, “AMS Discount.”
“As a part of our ongoing commitment to providing fans the best race experience at a reasonable price, we have partnered with local hotels to provide acceptable rates to our fans,” said Ed Clark, president and general manager of Atlanta Motor Speedway. “We are already offering a number of special ticket prices and providing these hotel rates can only help to make attending the Kobalt Tools 500 even more affordable for the fans who have supported us throughout the years.” A complete list of participating hotels is including with this release and fans can visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com to view the list as additional hotels are added.(AMS PR)(2-10-2009)
- Kobalt Tools Buy 1 Ticket Get 1 Free at AMS: As a special discount for Lowe’s customers, Atlanta Motor Speedway and Lowe’s have partnered to offer a buy one ticket, get one free deal to racing fans who spend $25 or more at Lowe’s. After making a purchase of $25 or more at Lowe’s, racing fans can call the Atlanta Motor Speedway ticket office and use the sales number on their Lowe’s receipt to receive their buy one ticket, get one free special. To contact the Atlanta Motor Speedway ticket office, call 877-9-AMS-TIX (877-926-7849) or 770-946-4211.(AMS PR)(1-31-2009)
- Labor Day Start Times at AMS announced: NASCAR announced the start times for Atlanta Motor Speedway’s first Sprint Cup night race to be held on Labor Day weekend and the accompany Nationwide Series race. The Labor Day Weekend Sprint Cup Series night race at Atlanta Motor Speedway will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday. Sept. 6, while the Nationwide Series race will start at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 5.(AMS PR)(1-29-2009)
- Calling All Collectors - The Search for Missing Atlanta Programs: As Atlanta Motor Speedway is celebrating its 100th race at the Kobalt Tools 500, the track is turning to its fans for help in an effort to fill in three gaps in the track’s program archives. Atlanta Motor Speedway will offer two Kobalt Tools 500 frontstretch tickets to any fan willing to donate one of the three missing programs to the track. The missing programs are from: the 1960 Dixie 300, the 1960 Atlanta 500, and the 1970 Atlanta 500. Fans interested in redeeming one of the three missing programs for two frontstretch tickets should contact Monica Donaldson in the Atlanta Motor Speedway Ticket Office at 770-946-3946. Only the first fan to donate each missing program will receive tickets.(AMS PR)(1-28-2009)
- Limited Infield Camping Spaces Remain for Kobalt Tools 500 at AMS: Adding to the excitement of attending the Kobalt Tools 500 NASCAR race weekend, camping at Atlanta Motor Speedway can supplement the thrilling race action and make a trip to one of NASCAR’s fastest tracks even more memorable. Atlanta Motor Speedway offers numerous camping options for NASCAR fans, including a limited number of infield High Speed Corral camping spaces for the March 6-8 Kobalt Tools 500. In addition to infield camping opportunities, racing fans can still secure outside reserved camping in Atlanta Motor Speedway’s larger campgrounds. Due to quantities available, those attending the Kobalt Tools 500 are encouraged to secure spots now in the Family Campground, as well as Legends, East Turn, First Turn and Speedway Boulevard. In addition to reserved camping opportunities at AMS, unreserved camping will also be available during the race weekend for just $60 payable upon arrival. Camping spaces, as well as tickets to the Kobalt Tools 500 race weekend, can be purchased by calling the AMS ticket office at 770-946-4211, 877-9-AMS-TIX (1-877-926-7849), or online at www.atlantamotorspeedway.com.(AMS PR)(1-17-2009)
- Tix on Sale for Labor Day Race at Atlanta: Due to requests for Labor Day NASCAR race weekend tickets, the general on-sale date for Atlanta Motor Speedway’s Labor Day weekend NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race has been moved up to Jan. 7. Beginning at 9am on Jan. 7, fans can purchase their tickets to Atlanta Motor Speedway’s first-ever Sprint Cup night race by calling the Atlanta Motor Speedway ticket office, visiting www.atlantamotorspeedway.com, or through an authorized Ticketmaster retailer. For the first-time ever, Atlanta Motor Speedway is offering fans a payment plan to purchase tickets. Race fans can reserve their Labor Day weekend Sprint Cup race ticket for just $20. They will then pay half of the purchase balance by April 5, with the remaining balance due on June 5. In addition to the payment plan, Atlanta Motor Speedway has introduced ticket specials for the Labor Day weekend NASCAR events. Among the offered deals, fans can purchase a $39 adult ticket or $19 student ticket in the Elliott Grandstand or an $88 Dale Earnhardt, Jr. fan section ticket in the Earnhardt Grandstand.(AMS PR)(1-7-2009)
- Holiday fan festival at Atlanta in Sat.: The Atlanta Chapter of Speedway Children's Charities is set to play host to Race to the Holidays, a holiday-themed family festival benefitting Speedway Children's Charities and the Metro South Association of Realtors Education Foundation. The event will take place on Saturday, Dec. 6th from 10am to 3pm at Atlanta Motor Speedway. Race to the Holidays will be held in the Nationwide Garage in the infield of Atlanta Motor Speedway. The family festival will feature crafts and games for children, photos with Santa, a secret Santa shop and more. An auction is also set to take place with a variety of holiday items up for bidding, including holiday baskets, wreaths, trees, travel packages and other elaborate holiday items. Entertainment and performances will be provided by local entertainers, bands and dance groups. Admission is just $10 for adults, $5 for teens (ages 13 to 19), and children 12 and under are admitted free of charge. For more information, visit the Speedway Children's Charities webpage at www.speedwaycharities.org.(AMS PR)(12-5-2008)
- Tickets on Sale for March's Kobalt Tools 500 at Atlanta: Gearing up for the 2009 Sprint Cup season, tickets are now on sale for the March 8 Kobalt Tools 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway. The Kobalt Tools 500, the fourth date in the 2009 Sprint Cup Series schedule. In addition, the race will hold a special significance for Atlanta Motor Speedway, as the 2009 Kobalt Tools 500 marks the track's 100th Sprint Cup race and 50th year of operation. With March's Kobalt Tools 500 race date sitting just more four months away, Atlanta Motor Speedway has already introduced a number of ticket specials for the event. Ticket prices for the event start at just $19 for a student ticket or $39 for an adult ticket located in the Elliott Grandstand. The Lowes Family Four Pack provides families with four tickets, four hot dogs and four Cokes for just $159. The Speedway is also offering an $88 Dale Earnhardt, Jr. ticket in the Earnhardt Grandstand. To inquire about any of Atlanta Motor Speedway's ticket specials and to purchase great seats for the Kobalt Tools 500, please contact the Atlanta Motor Speedway ticket office at 877-9-AMS-TIX (877-926-7849), 770-946-4211, or by visiting www.atlantamotorspeedway.com.(AMS PR)(11-7--2008)
- Tickets for the Labor Day race at Atlanta up for sale: The 2009 race at Atlanta Motor Speedway will be the first Labor Day event and first NASCAR night race in track history and only the second NASCAR race held at AMS in September (the first was Sept. 17, 1961). Traditionally, the Labor Day race was held in Darlington before being moved to California three years ago. The Labor Day event will feature a Nationwide Series event on Saturday, Sept. 5 before the crown jewel, the Sprint Cup race on Sunday, Sept. 6, under the lights. Fans who purchased tickets to this weekend’s Pep Boys Auto 500 will have the first option to reserve tickets to the historic Labor Day race weekend by calling (877) 9-AMS-TIX (877-926-7849) or by visiting www.atlantamotorspeedway.com. Tickets will go on sale to the general public on Tuesday, March 17, 2009.(AMS PR)(10-26-2008)
- Atlanta Concerts: Former US Army Ranger Keni Thomas will perform a special concert on Sunday of the Pep Boys Auto 500 race weekend. The concert is presented by Vault and the USO and Thomas will be appearing on the VAULT Stage at 11am/et. on Sunday, Oct. 26. The VAULT Stage is located behind the Earnhardt Grandstand near Gate 15. Fans are encouraged to help the USO support our military members by making contributions into bottle-shaped bins beside the VAULT stage or by donating Coke Rewards points at mycokerewards.com. Thomas, a former Ranger, fought with the 3rd Battalion, 75th Rangers in Somalia and was engaged in part of the battle highlighted in “Blackhawk Down.” Since ending his military career, he has pursued music as his career and passion and was featured in the movie, “Sweet Home Alabama.”
Up-and-coming country act Brantley Gilbert will be performing “Georgia on my Mind” before the start of the Pep Boys Auto 500 on Sunday, Oct. 26. Gilbert, a native of Jefferson, is slated to perform at 1:53 p.m. preceding the Pep Boys Auto 500.(AMS PR)(10-24-2008)
- Pep Boys Auto 500 Weekend October 24-26 Traffic Plan:
Basic Traffic Plan for the Pep Boys Auto 500 weekend (October 24-26):
Fans have a choice of which major route to take, either Hwy. 19/41 or Hwy. 20 from I-75 southbound. I-75 northbound race fans can exit at either Exit 212 Hampton-Locust Grove Road or Exit 218, GA Hwy 20. Please choose which route to take based on where you would like to park on property; fans will be directed to a certain lot based on which way they enter the speedway. Trams, shuttle buses and sidewalks will allow fans to get to their seats easily regardless of where they park on property. Be advised that the direction fans enter speedway property is the same direction they will exit.
ENTERING THE SPEEDWAY: From Hwy. 19/41: FROM THE NORTH: Those traveling from the North (traveling southbound on Hwy. 19/41) will be directed to parking lots on the north side of the property and should utilize Speedway Blvd. Those traveling south on Hwy. 19/41 will turn right at Speedway Boulevard and park in the yellow, red or green parking lots off of Speedway Blvd. Those with vehicle credentials need to stay in the left lane, use the counter-flow lane as they approach the speedway and enter just south of the main entrance at entrance E or at entrance G off of Richard Petty Blvd.
FROM THE SOUTH: Those traveling from the South (traveling northbound on Hwy. 19/41 from Griffin) will turn at the main speedway entrance and will be directed to the blue parking lot.
From Hwy. 20: Those traveling on Hwy. 20 will be directed to the Weaver or orange parking lot on the south side of the property.
EXITING THE SPEEDWAY: Fans will leave the same way they came in. If they entered from the North, they will be directed northbound. Those who enter from the South will be directed southbound.
Georgia DOT urges travelers to call 511 for updated information about road/lane closures or construction projects. Georgia 511 is a free phone service that provides real-time traffic and travel information statewide, such as traffic conditions, incidents, lane closures, construction, and delays due to bad weather. Callers can also reach live operators to request assistance or report incidents 24 hours a day, seven days a week. More information is available at www.511ga.org. For its fans, Atlanta Motor Speedway provides a free shuttle and tram service from all parking lots to each gate.(AMS PR)(10-22-2008)
- Flyover Set for Pep Boys Auto 500: The 919th Special Operations Group from Eglin Air Force Base in Florida will conduct a military flyover before the Pep Boys Auto 500, including a Lockheed C-130 Hercules. The massive C-130 is the main tactical airlifter for many military forces worldwide, used by more than 50 nations in more than 40 models and variations. Great seats are available for as little as $39 for an adult ticket. Call the Atlanta Motor Speedway ticket office at 1-877-AMS-TIX, 770-946-4211 or go to atlantamotorspeedway.com.(AMS PR)(10-21-2008)
- American Idol’s Michael Johns to Sing National Anthem at AMS: Atlanta Motor Speedway has secured singer and heartthrob Michael Johns to sing the National Anthem and a mini concert as part of the Kroger Pre-Race Show before the Pep Boys Auto 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway on Oct. 26. Johns, who quickly gained national fame for his soulful voice and handsome looks on American Idol’s seventh season, recently wrapped up performing on the American Idols LIVE! Tour 2008. The Perth, Australia native with ties to Georgia is geared up to perform before the Pep Boys Auto 500. In addition to Johns’ National Anthem performance preceding the Pep Boys Auto 500, singer Katie Lawhorne will sing the National Anthem before Saturday’s festivities and Thea Agnew will do so on Friday. Lawhorne, a 13-year old Stockbridge, Ga. native, will provide a local flair for the National Anthem performances. For fans interested in attending the Pep Boys Auto 500 and seeing Johns, Lawhorne and Agnew sing the National Anthem, great seats are available for as little as $39 for an adult ticket. Call the Atlanta Motor Speedway ticket office at 1-877-AMS-TIX or 770-946-4211 and reserve your seat today.(AMS PR)(10-20-2008)
- Record Purse Set for Atlanta Races: With nearly $7 million dollars in posted prize money on the line, NASCAR’s top drivers will go head-to-head during the Pep Boys Auto 500 race weekend for the largest purse offered in the history of Atlanta Motor Speedway. When all is said and done, $6,799,225 in prize money will be awarded to the Sprint Cup Series drivers in the Pep Boys Auto 500 and the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series drivers in the Atlanta 200, all battling for a cut of the record purse on the high banks of AMS. The fight for the record purse begins on Friday, Oct. 24 with Hot Shot Qualifying Night. Watch the brightest stars of the Sprint Cup series shine under the lights of Atlanta Motor Speedway’s 1.54-mile quad-oval, as they compete for the pole position to lead the field to the green flag come race day on Sunday. Round two comes on Saturday, Oct. 25, when the action heats up as the Craftsman Truck series hits the track for Atlanta 200. Undefeated in a truck at AMS, Kyle Busch will put perfection on the line as he attempts to become just the third driver ever to win four NCTS races on one track. Race weekend comes to a head on Sunday, Oct. 26 for the Pep Boys Auto 500, the seventh race in the Chase for the Sprint Cup. Watch the top stars in NASCAR exchange blows for 500 miles on the high banks of Atlanta Motor Speedway, each competing for first place and a large piece of the record purse. Great seats are available for all Pep Boys Auto 500 race weekend events, October 24-26th. Call the Atlanta Motor Speedway ticket office at 1-877-AMS-TIX or 770-946-4211 and reserve your seat today.(AMS PR)(10-20-2008)
- Atlanta Motor Speedway To Honor Bill Elliott and 1988 Championship Team: Atlanta Motor Speedway will honor Bill Elliott's 1988 Melling Racing Team to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the team's 1988 NASCAR Sprint Cup Championship as part of the pre-race activities for the Oct. 26 Pep Boys Auto 500. Many of Elliott's crew members from the 1988 Championship team will join the Dawsonville native on stage for a recognition ceremony. Elliott's team, based in his hometown of Dawsonville, is the only team located outside of North Carolina to win both the driver and owner championships.(AMS PR)(10-14-2008)
- Pit Pass Gives Fans a Behind-The-Scenes View at Atlanta Motor Speedway: Racing is special, because fans can get more access to restricted areas than in any other sport. By purchasing a pre-race pit pass for the Pep Boys Auto 500 on Oct. 26, fans have the opportunity to stroll the same pit area used by NASCAR teams during the Pep Boys Auto 500, the Atlanta 200 Craftsman Truck Series race and Hot Shot Qualifying Night. For exclusive pit-area access, Atlanta Motor Speedway pit passes start at only $75 for Friday's Hot Shot Qualifying Night and access for all three days is just $125. Three three-day pass allows fans to get as close as possible for Sprint Cup qualifying on Friday, Oct. 24, the Atlanta 200 truck race on Saturday, Oct. 25, and the Pep Boys Auto 500 on Sunday, Oct. 26. A Sunday-only pass is $100. To purchase tickets and pre-race pit passes to the Pep Boys Auto 500 weekend, fans can call 877-9-AMS-TIX (877-926-7849), 770-946-4211 or visit www.atlantamotorspeedway.com.(AMS PR)(9-24-2008)
- AMS's Club One Provides the Ultimate Racing Experience: For a one-of-a-kind luxury experience at the Pep Boys Auto 500 Sprint Cup race, look no further than Atlanta Motor Speedway’s Club One. Perched atop the Winners grandstand in turn one, Club One provides luxurious, reserved theatre-style seating, a lounge area, and premium food and beverage accommodations. As if those entertainment highlights aren’t enough to draw racing’s best fans, Club One also provides pre-race pit passes, reserved parking and exclusive rooftop access, which was previously available to just race spotters and photographers. On top of giving fans the ultimate in luxury race viewing, Club One provides their ticket holders the opportunity to stay right next to where you’re going enjoying the race. Club One Camping offers 30 RV camping spots at the base of the Winners grandstand, right next to where Club One is located making it a convenient jaunt with easy access to the Winners grandstand and Club One. Race fans can purchase Club One seats for the entire Pep Boys Auto 500 Sprint Cup weekend, which includes tickets to Friday’s Hot Shot Qualifying Night and Saturday’s Craftsman Truck Series Atlanta 200, or purchase a Club One ticket for just the Pep Boys Auto 500. For more information or to schedule your individual preview, call Mary Cason at 1-877-AMS-TIX or 770-946-4211.(AMS PR)(9-22-2008)
- Atlanta Motor Speedway Offers Facilities to Hurricane Evacuees: With weather forecasts calling for the potential Eastern seaboard landfall of tropical storm Hanna this week, Atlanta Motor Speedway has once again opened its facilities to aid those displaced by hurricanes striking the Atlantic or Gulf coasts. As tropical storms Hanna, Ike and Josephine lurk in the Atlantic Ocean and Hurricane Gustav evacuees are urged to allow time for recovery before returning, Atlanta Motor Speedway will extend a helping hand and allow those displaced to utilize the Speedway’s acres of camping. Atlanta Motor Speedway will provide facilities to both tent campers and RVs, including shower facilities. All unreserved camp areas will be available to pop-up tent campers, while East Turn will be used for dry RV camping. In addition, those with RVs in need of full hook-ups can reserve a premium RV spot for $35 per day. Traditionally, Atlanta Motor Speedway has annually offered its camping facilities to those fleeing tropical storms as a planned evacuation destination, including a number who recently fled Hurricane Gustav. For additional information, contact the Atlanta Motor Speedway ticket office at 1-877-9-AMS-TIX or the Henry County Emergency Management Office at 770-957-9121.(AMS PR)(9-3-2008)
- 2009 Cup Schedule Announced, 4 "off" weeks: NASCAR announced today its national series schedules for the 2009 season, which features realigned dates for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, NASCAR Nationwide Series and NASCAR Truck Series. In the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series there will be a three-way date swap between Atlanta Motor Speedway, Auto Club Speedway (formerly California Speedway) and Talladega Superspeedway.
• Atlanta’s second 2009 race will be held on Sunday, Sept. 6, taking the Labor Day weekend slot now held by Auto Club Speedway.
• Auto Club Speedway’s second race will be Sunday, Oct. 11 – the fourth week of the “Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup,” a slot formerly held by Talladega.
• Talladega’s second event will move to Sunday, Nov. 1, making it the seventh Chase event – the slot formerly held by Atlanta.
“The 2009 schedule reflects realigned dates that are good opportunities for everyone involved in our sport – fans, sponsors, tracks and teams," said NASCAR President Mike Helton. The season begins with a tripleheader weekend at Daytona International Speedway capped by the running of the Daytona 500 on Sunday, Feb. 15. In addition to that season-opening event for the Sprint Cup Series, the Truck Series starts its season on Friday night, Feb. 13, followed the next afternoon by the Nationwide Series opener. For all three series, the season will conclude with another tripleheader weekend, at Homestead-Miami Speedway on Nov. 20-22.
Other key NASCAR Sprint Cup dates in 2009:
• The 31st annual Budweiser Shootout at Daytona – a non-points event – will be held on Saturday, Feb. 7.
• On the evening of Saturday, Sept. 12, Richmond International Raceway will again host the “Chase cut-off” race, affording the last opportunity for drivers to qualify for NASCAR’s championship playoffs.
• New Hampshire Motor Speedway will host the first races in both the “Race to the Chase” (Sunday, June 28) and the Chase (Sunday, Sept. 20).
There also will be an additional off-week for NASCAR’s premier series in 2009, prior to the Labor Day weekend event, giving teams a final break before a 12-week stretch that will end the season. Because of the way the calendar falls, NASCAR Sprint Cup teams will have a total of four off-weeks during the 2009 season.
The NASCAR Nationwide Series will have a 35-race schedule. Changes from this year include a new event at Iowa Speedway on Aug. 1, replacing Mexico City; a switch of the Atlanta Motor Speedway event from March to September; and moving the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve event in Montreal to Sunday, Aug. 30.
The NASCAR Truck Series in 2009 again will have 25 races, with one realigned date: The series’ late-season race at Atlanta will be replaced by a night event at Chicagoland Speedway on Friday, Aug. 28.(NASCAR PR)(8-19-2008)
- Family Four Pack for Atlanta Cup race: Responding to overwhelming demand, Atlanta Motor Speedway and Pep Boys are continuing a popular way for fans to save money while enjoying October's Pep Boys Auto 500 in person, the Pep Boys Family Four Pack.
Atlanta Motor Speedway is now offering this family special for the popular October race date during the Chase for the Sprint Cup. The Pep Boys Family Four Pack includes four lower level Elliott Grandstand seats, four hot dogs and four 20-ounce Coca-Colas for just $159. In order to receive these ticket offers while supplies last, fans should call the Atlanta Motor Speedway Ticket Office at 1-877-9-AMS-TIX or visit www.AtlantaMotorSpeedway.com.(AMS PR)(8-16-2008)
- Camping Spaces Going Quick at Atlanta: While Atlanta Motor Speedway offers numerous camping options for NASCAR fans, less than 20 infield camping spaces remain available for the Pep Boys Auto 500 Sprint Cup Series weekend. Located on the infield in High Speed Corral between Turns Three and Four, fans wanting to take advantage of the weekend's infield activities need to act quickly in order to claim this prime viewing location. While camping spaces are being purchased at a rapid rate, significant quantities of outside reserved camping spaces are also available in the Mid-State Family camping lots, as well as Legends, East Turn, First Turn and Speedway Boulevard. Because of the quantities available, fans interested in purchasing a camping space are encouraged to reserve their space now.
In addition to reserved camping opportunities at AMS, unreserved camping will also be available during the race weekend for just $60 payable upon arrival. Camping spaces, as well as tickets to the Pep Boys Auto 500 race weekend, can be purchased by calling the AMS ticket office at 770-946-4211, 877-9-AMS-TIX (1-877-926-7849), or online at www.atlantamotorspeedway.com.(AMS PR)(8-8-2008)
- Atlanta retains agency to boost attendance: Atlanta Motor Speedway has retained Blue Sky Agency, an Atlanta-based advertising firm, to launch a brand campaign to increase attendance. Many tracks that host Sprint Cup races have reported flat or declining attendance the past few years, and AMS has seen a double-figure drop across all of its events in the past three to four years, according to Ed Clark, the speedway's president. Those tracks don't release specific attendance numbers. The decline is usually blamed on the expense of gas because NASCAR depends on fans to travel long distances, many in gas-guzzling RVs and campers. Part of the new marketing plan likely will involve shrinking the radius around Atlanta to which AMS markets, Clark said.(Sporting News)(7-19-2008)
- California race to move rumor returns: Speculation is mounting that NASCAR's Labor Day race at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana could be moved to October, starting next year. The track has struggled to sell all of its 92,000 seats on Labor Day weekend partly because of the weekend's typically hot temperatures, and has petitioned NASCAR for another date. One proposal being weighed is a three-track swap, in which Fontana would receive Talladega Superspeedway's date in October, Atlanta Motor Speedway would get the Labor Day race and Talladega would receive Atlanta's fall date in October. That would put the California race in the middle of the 10-race Chase for the Cup that decides NASCAR's premier championship. But NASCAR spokesman Ramsey Poston said the sanctioning body is still meeting with officials for all tracks and that next year's schedule "is still being determined." NASCAR hopes to announce the schedule by September, he added. Auto Club Speedway President Gillian Zucker said "nothing has been decided yet" and that the three-track swap idea "is one of several scenarios that I have heard are being discussed." She also said "it's possible that [Labor Day] date will remain the same" next year but is hopeful of moving the race. "Everyone is in agreement that a later date for the second [Fontana] race is in the best interests of the sport," Zucker said. Her track also stages a Cup race in late February.(Los Angeles Times)(5-25-2008) Comment here
- Two SMI presidents deny tracks may lose race dates: The presidents of two Speedway Motorsports Inc. tracks firmly dismissed the notions that their facilities could lose Sprint Cup dates in order to provide Kentucky Speedway with one. New Hampshire Motor Speedway and Atlanta Motor Speedway have been mentioned as tracks that could lose a race, but NHIS President Jerry Gappens and AMS President Ed Clark shot down the idea that SMI Chairman Bruton Smith would ever do that. In fact, both presidents said they are planning to finalize sanctioning agreements with NASCAR on Friday morning for two races each in 2009. "Bruton has not given me any, any indication at all that he's looking to change anything," Gappens said. "...I don't think this will have any impact. I think there's more to the puzzle that he's got to finish completing to do some of the things he's thinking." Clark vehemently denied that his track, which has struggled with attendance recently, would have a date moved elsewhere. "I'm tired of people bringing that up, because I get so sick of answering it, I'm about to scream," he said. "You can go ask Bruton, you can ask me – there is no chance. It is not going to happen."(SceneDaily)(5-23-2008)
- Pep Boys Auto 500 Weekend Tickets Now On Sale: NASCAR returns to Atlanta Motor Speedway for the Pep Boys Auto 500 weekend on October 24-26, and
tickets for all three days of racing action are on sale now. The Pep Boys Auto 500 weekend kicks off with the fastest qualifying session in NASCAR during Hot Shot Qualifying Night on Friday, Oct. 24. On Saturday, Oct. 25, the Craftsman Truck Series drivers will showcase their door-banging action in the Atlanta 200. The weekend will culminate on Sunday, Oct. 26, with the running of the Pep Boys Auto 500, a pivotal race in the Chase for the Sprint Cup. See atlantamotorspeedway.com for more ticket packages.(AMS)(5-14-2008)
- Scouts to Race at AMS UPDATE: Saturday is Atlanta Motor Speedway's biannual Scout Day at the Races, when all Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts in uniform are admitted free for the day's festivities, including the Nicorette 300 Nationwide Series race. New for this year will be a Pinewood Derby demonstration in front of the Petty Grandstand after the conclusion of the Nicorette 300. Sprint Cup owner Ray Everham and broadcaster Mike Joy will host the event, and all scouts participating will receive a commemorative
certificate and a T-shirt that says "I raced at Atlanta Motor Speedway." To get prepared for the big day, there was a special media flight of the Pinewood Derby held Friday morning in the media center, which was won by five-year-old Will Lanford, son of Atlanta Fox 5 sportscaster Buck Lanford. He clutched the winning Fox-5 "sponsored" car long after the end of the contest, and later had his carved wooden trophy autographed by Sprint Cup driver Carl Edwards. The beautifully carved trophy was actually created by Atlanta Motor Speedway's own Grandstand Supervisor, Shaun Kelley, an accomplished woodworker.(AMS PR)(3-8-2008)
UPDATE jayski.com #7 finishes 3rd: Motor Racing Outreach and Speedway Children's Charities conducted the first autotrader.com Pinewood Derby event Saturday at Atlanta Motor Speedway. Nearly 100 Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts braved the chilly weather to watch the Nicorette 300 and race their cars down the 30 foot extruded aluminum track. Sprint Cup Series team owner Ray Evernham built two sleek entries, which were awarded to the winning scouts. Every scout received a "I raced at Atlanta Motor Speedway" T-shirt and certificate.
In the MRO class for NASCAR participants' family members, Christian Yates raced his #28 to a one car length victory over John Hunter Nemechek's #78 Furniture Row entry, with Scott Joy's jayski.com #7 an inch behind in third, and Skylar Riggs' #66 fourth. Macy Waltrip, Layne Riggs, Todd Gilliland, and Emilia Reutimann also competed, racing cars that they and their dads had built.
A variety of strategies were employed. Waltrip's car was "loose" and benefitted from a tire change, while graphite lube was a hot commodity among drivers trying to keep up with Yates' "horsepower". Joe Nemechek served as honorary starter, From FOX Sports, Mike Joy was race director and Matt Yocum was finish line judge. Proud crew chiefs included Doug Yates, Michael Waltrip, David Reutimann, Scott Riggs, David Gilliand, Ray Evernham, Nemechek and Joy. MRO President Billy Mauldin presented the awards. The next event is planned for Charlotte in May.(3-9-2008) Comment here
- GA Governor to host Atlanta Motor Speedway Day: Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue will host the 6th annual Atlanta Motor Speedway Day at the Georgia State Capitol [Atlanta, GA], along with Georgia State Senator John Douglas, AMS President and General Manager Ed Clark, Past champion Rusty Wallace, David Ragan (Unadilla, Ga. native), Steve Wallace, David Stremme, Truck Series Owner Billy Ballew (Blairsville, Ga. native and resident), Andy Lally (Dacula, Ga. resident and driver for TRG Motorsports) outside the State Capitol on Mitchell Street [If it rains, the location will be inside the Capitol in the North Wing] on Thursday, March 6 @ 10:45am/et.(AMS PR)(3-5-2008)
- Kobalt Tools 500 Weekend March 7-9 Traffic Plan: Due to the March 7-9 Kobalt Tools 500 race events at Atlanta Motor Speedway, the south side of Atlanta will experience especially heavy traffic flow throughout the event weekend. Please help us advise the more than 120,000 fans expected for the Kobalt Tools 500 the best routes for entering and exiting the speedway. Traffic is expected to be heaviest during the Friday evening rush hour, as fans head to the track for Georgia Power Qualifying Night and the American Commercial Lines 200 Craftsman Truck race. Saturday afternoon will consist of the Nicorette 300 NASCAR Nationwide Series race. The weekend will culminate with Sunday’s (March 9) Kobalt Tools 500. Fans are encouraged to leave early to avoid the rush of traffic expected to reach the race track around 8 a.m.
Where: All racetrack-bound roads, especially Hwys. 19/41 and GA Hwy. 20 (Bruton Smith Parkway)
**Important Note: For its fans, Atlanta Motor Speedway provides a free shuttle and tram service from all parking lots to each gate.**
Basic Traffic Plan for the Kobalt Tools 500 weekend (March 7-9):
Fans have a choice of which major route to take, either Hwy. 19/41 or Hwy. 20 from I-75 southbound. I-75 northbound race fans can exit at either Exit 212 Hampton-Locust Grove Road or Exit 218, GA Hwy 20. Please choose which route to take based on where you would like to park on property, because fans will be directed to a certain lot based on which way they enter the speedway. Trams, shuttle buses and sidewalks will allow fans to get to their seats easily regardless of where they park on property. Be advised that the direction fans enter speedway property is the same direction they will exit.
ENTERING THE SPEEDWAY:
From Hwy. 19/41:
FROM THE NORTH: Those traveling from the North (traveling southbound on Hwy. 19/41) will be directed to parking lots on the north side of the property and should utilize Speedway Blvd.
Those traveling south on Hwy. 19/41 need to be in the right lane and will turn right at Speedway Boulevard and park in the yellow, red or green parking lots off of Speedway Blvd. Those with vehicle credentials need to stay in the left lane, use the counter-flow lane as they approach the speedway and enter just south of the main entrance at entrance E or at entrance G off of Richard Petty Blvd.
FROM THE SOUTH: Those traveling in from the South (traveling northbound on Hwy. 19/41 from Griffin) will turn at main speedway entrance and will be directed to the blue parking lot.
From Hwy. 20: Those traveling in on Hwy. 20 will be directed to the orange (Weaver) parking lots on the south side of the property.
EXITING THE SPEEDWAY:
Fans will leave the same way they came in. If they entered from the North, they will be directed northbound. Those who enter from the South will be directed southbound.
Georgia DOT urges travelers to call 511 for updated information about road/lane closures or construction projects. Georgia 511 is a free phone service that provides real-time traffic and travel information statewide, such as traffic conditions, incidents, lane closures, construction, and delays due to bad weather. Callers can also reach live operators to request assistance or report incidents 24 hours a day, seven days a week. More information is available at www.511ga.org.(AMS PR)(3-3-2008)
- Fan Tips for Those Attending the Race Weekend at Atlanta: Below are some tips that will help ensure fans have a memorable, exciting visit to NASCAR's fastest track, Atlanta Motor Speedway during the March 7-9 Kobalt Tools 500 race weekend.
* Gate openings - Various gates will be open each day for fans to access the facility. The following is the schedule with opening times and gates available that day: Friday (12 p.m., gates 12-15), Saturday (9 a.m., Gates 1, 2, 3 and 12-15), Sunday (9 a.m., all gates).
* Important Note: For its fans, Atlanta Motor Speedway provides a free shuttle and tram service from all parking lots to each gate. Fans will be shuttled to their gate regardless of where they park.
* Nationwide Insurance Fan Assistance Patrol Program - The Nationwide Insurance Fan Assistance Patrol offers golf cart transportation and general assistance throughout the Atlanta Motor Speedway parking areas. This service is limited to the Atlanta Motor Speedway facility only, providing patrons with the ability to move to and from almost any area on the property. Patrons may inquire about any of these services at the Nationwide Insurance Information Booths located throughout the Atlanta Motor Speedway property.
Atlanta Motor Speedway provides tram service between the campgrounds and the entrance gates before and after events that will depart regularly from the designated Nationwide tram stops. Tram passengers under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Trams are provided as a courtesy service to speedway guests. Due to the demand for this service, continuous riding (joyriding) is prohibited
Campground tram route:
Runs along inner perimeter road. Through the and Legends camping area, with a stop at the northern entrance to the East Turn Campgrounds; adjacent to Entrance E. Trams will also run to Speedway Blvd. reserved and unreserved camping as well as the Mid-State Family Campground.
Infield tram route:
Runs from main entrance to the new tunnel along the road course.
* ATM Machines - Bank of America will have 12 ATM machines at various locations throughout the property. You will find ATM machines at gates 13, 14, and 15 (will call). There are also locations in the Champions, Earnhardt, Petty and Elliott Grandstands, as well as near the infield concessions area.
* Camping Guidelines - Quiet time in all camping areas is from midnight to 7 a.m. (except Mid-State Family Campground, which is 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.) Although we do allow the use of generators, we ask that you turn them off by midnight. Also, no flatbed trucks (over 10 feet long), flatbed trailers, box trucks, or portable storage containers are allowed.
* Traffic Reports - Traffic information will be provided by WSB 750 AM. Tune in throughout the weekend for the latest traffic news. Georgia DOT urges travelers to call 511 for updated information about road/lane closures or construction projects. Georgia 511 is a free phone service that provides real-time traffic and travel information statewide, such as traffic conditions, incidents, lane closures, construction, and delays due to bad weather. Callers can also reach live operators to request assistance or report incidents 24 hours
a day, seven days a week. More information is available at www.511ga.org.
* Beer Cut-Off Times - Beer sales will conclude with 50 laps left in each race. For your convenience please be sure to make your purchases before this time.
* Outside food- While we pride ourselves on providing a variety of food and drink options for our guests, visitors are welcome to bring their own items if they prefer. Coolers larger than 14"x14"x14" and glass bottles are not allowed inside the gates of the speedway. Planning ahead will make your entrance to the speedway much simpler for both our visitors and security officers alike.
* Handicapped Parking Enforcement - Handicapped parking areas will be strictly enforced for the Kobalt Tools 500 race weekend and misuse could result in being fined and / or towed. These areas are reserved for those fans with a handicap, not for those who plan to use a friend or relative's handicap permit to gain access to these areas. The person who is the owner of that handicapped parking sticker is required to be a passenger in the vehicle.
* Ticket Resale - No tickets may be resold on Speedway property. This will be strictly enforced. Fans can also utilize TicketExchange, Ticketmaster's new online service that enables safe and secure fan-to-fan ticket transactions. Buyers simply select the tickets they want based on price and seat location, without having to bid against other buyers, without having to coordinate delivery from anonymous sellers, and without the gamble that the tickets are fraudulent. Sellers are guaranteed payment for tickets sold, without having to collect payment or deliver the tickets to the buyer.
* Directions to Atlanta Motor Speedway- Directions to AMS, including traffic patterns and facility maps can be found by visiting www.atlantamotorspeedway.com
* To Purchase Tickets - Fans can purchase tickets several ways. Tickets are available through the AMS ticket office by calling 877-9-AMS-TIX (877-926-7849), 770-946-4211, online at www.atlantamotorspeedway.com or through an authorized Ticketmaster retail outlet.(AMS PR)(3-3-2008)
- AMS Announces record purse: NASCAR drivers competing in the March 9 Kobalt Tools 500, the March 8 Nicorette 300 and the March 7 American Commercial Lines 200 Craftsman Truck Series races at Atlanta Motor Speedway will be battling for nearly $7 million in posted prize money. The awards for the events are part of a $6,763,848 purse
announced for the three days of racing that comprise the March 7-9 Kobalt Tools 500 race weekend schedule of events. This exciting weekend of racing will kick off Friday night,
March 7 with Georgia Power Sprint Cup Qualifying night, immediately followed by the American Commercial Line 200 Craftsman Truck Series race, where the tough trucks of NASCAR will hit the 1.54-mile quad-oval and battle for more than half a million dollars. Racing action will heat up on Saturday, March 8 when the Nationwide Series regulars try and beat select Sprint Cup drivers in the Nicorette 300, with $1,151,315 up for grabs. On Sunday, the stars of the Sprint Cup series will take on the high banks of Atlanta Motor Speedway in the Kobalt Tools 500, racing for a record purse of $5,060,012. This is the first time in Atlanta Motor Speedway's history the purse has exceeded five million dollars. Great seats are available for the Kobalt Tools 500 race weekend, March 7-9. Contact the Atlanta Motor Speedway ticket office by calling 877-9-AMS-TIX (877-926-7849), 770-946-4211 or visit atlantamotorspeedway.com for more information.(AMS PR)(3-2-2008)
- Deal to swap [California/Atlanta] race dates near, Smith suggests: Bruton Smith worked the room in the media center Friday at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, confirming he has proposed swapping his Atlanta track’s October date for the Labor Day weekend slot at Auto Club Speedway in California. “It is the thing to do,” said Smith, chairman of Speedway Motorsports Inc. “I hope that we will have an answer on that in the very near future.”(Charlotte Observer)(3-1-2008)
- AMS Offers Fans Simple Ordering Options at Concession Stands with "Combo" Meals: Cuisine is a large part of any race weekend experience and Levy Restaurants has ensured that fans attending the March 7-9 Kobalt Tools 500 race weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway will have a multitude of food options to choose from, including several new items. To speed service, fans will be able to order one of four different food options as a combination meal, in addition to an already full line-up of items. The combo meals will be available at select stands which will still feature a full line-up of food items. To help fulfill a southern race experience, stands will offer new additions such as Brunswick stew and for the first time ever at AMS, race fans will be able to take advantage of in-seat service. Race fans can enjoy a wonderful dining experience as well as incredible racing at Atlanta Motor Speedway during the March 7-9 Kobalt Tools 500 race weekend. Tickets are available by calling 877-9-AMS-TIX (877-926-7849), 770-946-4211 or by visiting atlantamotorspeedway.com.(AMS PR)(3-1-2008)
- Calif and Atlanta to switch dates? UPDATE: Rowdy.com reports: "According to our good buddy David Poole, we might find ourselves watching the Labor Day race in Atlanta. There is talk of California and Atlanta switching dates with Cali getting the October Chase race and Atlanta getting Labor Day."(Rowdy.com)(2-22-2008)
UPDATE: Atlanta Motor Speedway president and general manager Ed Clark said Friday that the track has had no discussions with Auto Club Speedway of Southern California about swapping each track's respective fall race date. "I don't know where that's coming from," Clark said. "We'd certainly have to take a look at it and have to talk with our fans and employees and get their views on it. We'd have to at least look at it. If it would be a win-win deal for both sides, it would make sense."(Macon Telegraph)(2-23-2008) Comment here.
