When it comes to car collecting, there are a few iconic landmarks that you just can’t miss. One of these is Speedway Superamerica, an auto racing track located in California. If you’re visiting the United States and have never heard of it, then you probably live somewhere far away, because few people give it a thought anymore. That is, until you’re walking through the parking lot and see dozens of muscle cars, classics, and rare finds waiting to be discovered.
For those who have even the smallest interest in cars or motorsport, it’s hard not to be enticed by the sight of all these shiny vehicles. Even those who aren’t exactly car fans will have a good time at Speedway Superamerica, because the whole place is just a giant party. The noise, the smoke, the dust; it’s all part of the fun. As long as you have a ticket, you can have access to the infield, which is where all the action takes place. The biggest difference between NASCAR and motor racing in general is that the latter two sportive events are all-ages, whereas NASCAR is mainly for adults.
The History Of Speedway Superamerica
Located in Santa Ana, California, Speedway Superamerica was once a holding pattern for aircraft during World War II. The site was originally an airport that saw a lot of action during the conflict. After the war, the airport grew in popularity and became a working establishment. The first motor racing event was held at the airport in 1951, and it wasn’t until the early 1960s that a proper speedway was built on the site. The grand opening was on October 31, 1961, and it cost $1.5 million to build. This is when the $25,000 prize purse began.
The first NASCAR race held at the airport was in 1963 and was an important event in the history of the sport. The track would later become known as the Indianapolis Raceway, named after the city where IndyCar is held. This is also the same track where the Indy 500 is held. Since then, the raceway has been home to prestigious motorsport events, including the American Cancer Society’s “Race For The Cure” in late May and early June each year. In 2018, it was the site of the IndyCar Grand Prix.
For most of its history, Speedway Superamerica was a single-track facility. This all changed in 1981, when a second track, known as the California Speedway, was built across the street from the main track. The idea was to create a larger competition, as there were many safety concerns when drivers were traveling along a single road. The plan worked and the attendance rose sharply. At first, the main track was closed to traffic while the parallel track was open, but eventually the two tracks were merged.
When the two tracks were merged, the result was two distinctive tracks with drastically different layouts. The main track meandered through the width of the grandstand, while the shorter, more technical California Speedway was tucked away behind the stands. The track width along this section is only about 12 feet, compared to the 24-feet width in the middle. This narrowing creates a fast and furious experience, which immediately catches the attention of spectators. It’s not surprising that NASCAR chose to hold its annual Daytona Beach Road Course in January, when it’s typically cold and wet in California, and not in the summer, when it’s dry and hot. This is also one of the few NASCAR tracks that still allows sprint cars.
How Does It Compute?
Attendance at Speedway Superamerica is always good, but the track has seen its popularity rise due to the implementation of a new fan strategy. Previously, fans would line the fences along both sides of the track, but now they only line the top and inside of the track, leaving the outside of the track empty. This is to maximize their view of the racing action. In addition, they also use digital scoreboards, rather than the older style of boards with physical sliders.
While the main stadium and most of the other structures at Speedway Superamerica were built in the 1950s, its upper deck and grandstand were constructed in the early 21st century. The concrete was mixed by hand and it took about two and a half years to complete. This is when the track went through a major renovation and received a face-lift, making it look as good as new. With modern amenities, fast food restaurants, and huge video boards, it’s not hard to see why this track is so popular. In fact, it’s one of the biggest and most popular attractions in Orange County. This year is its 65th anniversary and it continues to impress visitors with its uniqueness and eye-catching designs. If you’ve never been, then it’s time to visit California and check it out.