Not quite as big as some in the past but it took out some top contenders including Tony Stewart.
Showing posts with label Talladega. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Talladega. Show all posts
Monday, April 28, 2008
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Kyle Busch wins the Aaron's 499; Read the live blog
Dario Franchitti hit hard during the Aaron's 312
Franchitti is lucky to have only suffered a broken ankle during this crash.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
What you can bring to Talladega Superspeedway

Allowed
■ Binoculars, cameras, headsets, etc., worn separately around the neck or belt are allowed, along with seat cushions carries separately.■ Cell phones, scanners, pagers and radios can be clipped to the belt.
■ One soft-sided bag no larger than 6x6x12 inches. Soft-sided bags include insulated coolers, scanner and camera bags, fanny packs, pursues, diaper bags, etc. They may also contain ice. All soft-sided bags are subject to search.
■ One clear plastic bag no larger than 18x18x4 inches. Clear bags may be used to carry items such as: Scanners, apparel, cameras, snacks and canned beverages. They may not contain ice. All bags are subject to search.
Not allowed
■ Items not allowed include: Hard-sided coolers, backpacks, thermos bottles and insulated cups on any size; strollers, umbrellas, etc.; any bags, or containers larger than the allowable size of 6x6x12 inches. For fans’ safety, any items left unattended in or around the gate area will be removed and disposed of. Talladega Superspeedway assumes no responsibility.Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Fantasy Report: Aaron's 499
This week NASCAR rolls into our home state for the Aaron's 499 at Talladega Superspeedway. This track is a 2.66-mile tri-oval with 33 degrees of banking in the corners. They don't call it "NASCAR's Most Competitive Track" for nothing.
Here are our drivers:
Erik's picks: Jeff Gordon, Tony Stewart✔, Dale Earnhardt Jr.✔, Jamie McMurray✔, Greg Biffle, Martin Truex Jr., Brian Vickers✔ and Paul Menard
Brandon's picks: Jimmie Johnson✔, Kurt Busch, Dale Earnhardt Jr.✔, Martin Truex Jr., David Gilliland, Elliott Sadler✔, Brian Vickers✔ and Michael Waltrip.
"The Big One": Picking a driver that can stay out of wrecks is hard anywhere but is even more difficult at Talladega. A single wreck can take out half the field eliminating your fantasy drivers. One bad week can really put you behind in the point standings.
A few drivers to consider: Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Jeff Gordon for starters. They always seem to be running at the end of this race and often at the front. This will mark Jr.'s 300th Cup start and you can bet that the "Junior Nation" will be amped up. Jeff Gordon, on the other hand, dominated at Talladega last year with 2 wins (one from the pole). Jimmy Johnson has also had success there in the past and his team looks as if they have come alive in the last couple of races. Others to watch for would be Brian Vickers and Kurt Busch. Vickers, who always seems strong at Talladega, won in 2006 after spinning Johnson into Jr. for a dramatic finish. Busch has had 7 top 10 finishes in 8 races.
Things to remember: This is an impound race. That means that the car they qualify with is the car they'll race with ... no switching to race trim after taking time in qualifying trim. This sometimes brings a few of the teams that are farther behind in points to the front. It's a gamble to pick those that qualify well because it often doesn't pay off. Don't be discouraged if your main pick is way back in the field because Gordon started 35th and remained near the back for most of the fall race last year until "The Big One" occurred and then got on the gas to eventually take the checkered flag. Also, don't forget that Gordon won from the pole last spring so nothing is set in stone.
— Brandon Wynn contributed to this post.
• Last winners — April 2007: 24-Jeff Gordon, 154.167 mph; October 2007: Jeff Gordon, 143.438 mph
• Qualifying records — No restrictor plate: Bill Elliott, April 1987, 212.809 mph; Restrictor Plate: Bill Elliott, May 1990, 199.388 15/16th-inch plate
• Most Wins — Active: 6, Jeff Gordon; All time: 10, Dale Earnhardt, Sr.
• Most Poles (All Time): 8, Bill Elliott
• Most Top 5s: 23, Dale Earnhardt
— Source: NASCAR
Here are our drivers:Erik's picks: Jeff Gordon, Tony Stewart✔, Dale Earnhardt Jr.✔, Jamie McMurray✔, Greg Biffle, Martin Truex Jr., Brian Vickers✔ and Paul Menard
Brandon's picks: Jimmie Johnson✔, Kurt Busch, Dale Earnhardt Jr.✔, Martin Truex Jr., David Gilliland, Elliott Sadler✔, Brian Vickers✔ and Michael Waltrip.
"The Big One": Picking a driver that can stay out of wrecks is hard anywhere but is even more difficult at Talladega. A single wreck can take out half the field eliminating your fantasy drivers. One bad week can really put you behind in the point standings.
A few drivers to consider: Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Jeff Gordon for starters. They always seem to be running at the end of this race and often at the front. This will mark Jr.'s 300th Cup start and you can bet that the "Junior Nation" will be amped up. Jeff Gordon, on the other hand, dominated at Talladega last year with 2 wins (one from the pole). Jimmy Johnson has also had success there in the past and his team looks as if they have come alive in the last couple of races. Others to watch for would be Brian Vickers and Kurt Busch. Vickers, who always seems strong at Talladega, won in 2006 after spinning Johnson into Jr. for a dramatic finish. Busch has had 7 top 10 finishes in 8 races.
Things to remember: This is an impound race. That means that the car they qualify with is the car they'll race with ... no switching to race trim after taking time in qualifying trim. This sometimes brings a few of the teams that are farther behind in points to the front. It's a gamble to pick those that qualify well because it often doesn't pay off. Don't be discouraged if your main pick is way back in the field because Gordon started 35th and remained near the back for most of the fall race last year until "The Big One" occurred and then got on the gas to eventually take the checkered flag. Also, don't forget that Gordon won from the pole last spring so nothing is set in stone.
— Brandon Wynn contributed to this post.
Fast Facts
• Last pole sitters — April 2007: Jeff Gordon, 192.069 mph; October 2007: Michael Waltrip, 189.070 mph• Last winners — April 2007: 24-Jeff Gordon, 154.167 mph; October 2007: Jeff Gordon, 143.438 mph
• Qualifying records — No restrictor plate: Bill Elliott, April 1987, 212.809 mph; Restrictor Plate: Bill Elliott, May 1990, 199.388 15/16th-inch plate
• Most Wins — Active: 6, Jeff Gordon; All time: 10, Dale Earnhardt, Sr.
• Most Poles (All Time): 8, Bill Elliott
• Most Top 5s: 23, Dale Earnhardt
— Source: NASCAR
Monday, March 31, 2008
NEWS RELEASE: Talladega Superspeedway Expands Free Overnight Parks
March 27, 2008
TALLADEGA — In an effort to help ease the cost of race fans wanting to attend the Aaron’s Dream Weekend next month, Talladega Superspeedway officials announced today that the track is expanding its free overnight parks.
The Aaron’s Dream weekend is scheduled for April 25-27 and will feature the Aaron’s 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series race and the Aaron’s 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race.
“Talladega Superspeedway hosts some of the most loyal fans in NASCAR,” said Talladega Superspeedway President Rick Humphrey. “And we realize that a lot of those fans are traveling long distances to be here and that some of the expense to visit us has grown since last year. We want our guests to know that we are working to help them cut the cost of attending our events by opening more land for them to stay on our property for free. Several years ago we bought approximately 500 acres for the sole purpose of using it for our overnight guests. Last spring we opened a small portion of it and we’re ready to open even more. The option to stay on track property for free will certainly help offset some expense.”
Staying in an overnight park can be as simple as setting up a tent, or as elaborate as getting a group together and sharing an RV. All free overnight parks open at 8 a.m. the Tuesday of race week (April 22) and must be cleared by 11 a.m. Monday following the race. Guests wanting to stay in the parks will be required to show their race tickets prior to entry and a valid ticket must be shown each time for admission.
TALLADEGA — In an effort to help ease the cost of race fans wanting to attend the Aaron’s Dream Weekend next month, Talladega Superspeedway officials announced today that the track is expanding its free overnight parks.
The Aaron’s Dream weekend is scheduled for April 25-27 and will feature the Aaron’s 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series race and the Aaron’s 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race.
“Talladega Superspeedway hosts some of the most loyal fans in NASCAR,” said Talladega Superspeedway President Rick Humphrey. “And we realize that a lot of those fans are traveling long distances to be here and that some of the expense to visit us has grown since last year. We want our guests to know that we are working to help them cut the cost of attending our events by opening more land for them to stay on our property for free. Several years ago we bought approximately 500 acres for the sole purpose of using it for our overnight guests. Last spring we opened a small portion of it and we’re ready to open even more. The option to stay on track property for free will certainly help offset some expense.”
Staying in an overnight park can be as simple as setting up a tent, or as elaborate as getting a group together and sharing an RV. All free overnight parks open at 8 a.m. the Tuesday of race week (April 22) and must be cleared by 11 a.m. Monday following the race. Guests wanting to stay in the parks will be required to show their race tickets prior to entry and a valid ticket must be shown each time for admission.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Talladega Superspeedway Announces All-You-Can-Eat Package
I've heard of a few MLB teams (Braves and Dodgers) offering all you can eat seats and it had intrigued me. I'm not sure what the concession prices are like at 'Dega, but you probably wouldn't have to eat a lot to make up for the extra ticket price. I would have liked to have seen a few more options for food though.
Luckily for Jeff Gordon, this is not "All You Can Drink."
Press release:
TALLADEGA — Talladega Superspeedway officials announced today that they are offering an all-you-can-eat package for the Allison Grandstand. The $80 package includes a reserved seat in the Allison Grandstand for the Aaron’s 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series race and Aaron’s 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race with all-you-can-eat vouchers for both days!
“We are always looking for opportunities to enhance our guests’ experience,” said Talladega Superspeedway President Rick Humphrey. “The all-you-can-eat package is a great value for families and race fans on a budget. For only $80 a fan can watch NASCAR’s two premier series race at NASCAR’s Most Competitive Track with meals included. That’s a great deal.“
The all-you-can-eat voucher is valid from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Each trip to the concession stand allows a voucher holder to receive a maximum of 2 sandwiches (2 hotdogs or 2 hamburgers or 1 of each), 2 bags of chips and 2 soft drinks.
Luckily for Jeff Gordon, this is not "All You Can Drink."
Press release:
TALLADEGA — Talladega Superspeedway officials announced today that they are offering an all-you-can-eat package for the Allison Grandstand. The $80 package includes a reserved seat in the Allison Grandstand for the Aaron’s 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series race and Aaron’s 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race with all-you-can-eat vouchers for both days!
“We are always looking for opportunities to enhance our guests’ experience,” said Talladega Superspeedway President Rick Humphrey. “The all-you-can-eat package is a great value for families and race fans on a budget. For only $80 a fan can watch NASCAR’s two premier series race at NASCAR’s Most Competitive Track with meals included. That’s a great deal.“
The all-you-can-eat voucher is valid from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Each trip to the concession stand allows a voucher holder to receive a maximum of 2 sandwiches (2 hotdogs or 2 hamburgers or 1 of each), 2 bags of chips and 2 soft drinks.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Press Release: McWilliams Named Vice President at Talladega Superspeedway
Feb. 11, 2008
TALLADEGA — Mike McWilliams, Sr. Director of Facility Operations, has been named Vice President of Facility Operations, Talladega Superspeedway President Rick Humphrey announced today.
McWilliams will continue to oversee all facets of facility operations, fire & safety operations as well as security.
“Mike has been an integral part of the success of Talladega Superspeedway since he became part of our team,” said Humphrey. “We look forward to his continued leadership.”
“I am thrilled the company had the trust and confidence in me to promote me to this level,” said McWilliams. “It is an honor to be part of such a great organization as Talladega Superspeedway and I will do all I can to ensure we become even more successful in the future.”
McWilliams, a native of Talladega County, graduated from Munford High School and worked in construction with his own father before forming a construction company with his son Andy. Prior to joining Talladega Superspeedway in 1994, he worked at the Talladega Airport. He currently serves on the Talladega Airport Board and the 911 Board.
TALLADEGA — Mike McWilliams, Sr. Director of Facility Operations, has been named Vice President of Facility Operations, Talladega Superspeedway President Rick Humphrey announced today.
McWilliams will continue to oversee all facets of facility operations, fire & safety operations as well as security.
“Mike has been an integral part of the success of Talladega Superspeedway since he became part of our team,” said Humphrey. “We look forward to his continued leadership.”
“I am thrilled the company had the trust and confidence in me to promote me to this level,” said McWilliams. “It is an honor to be part of such a great organization as Talladega Superspeedway and I will do all I can to ensure we become even more successful in the future.”
McWilliams, a native of Talladega County, graduated from Munford High School and worked in construction with his own father before forming a construction company with his son Andy. Prior to joining Talladega Superspeedway in 1994, he worked at the Talladega Airport. He currently serves on the Talladega Airport Board and the 911 Board.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Speedweek press release
Feb. 07, 2008
TALLADEGA — Officials from Talladega Superspeedway and Barber Motorsports Park are preparing for the green flag to wave on the third annual Alabama Speedweek, April 18 - 27. Speedweek begins with Barber Motorsports Park hosting the AMA Honda Superbike Classic, April 18 - 20, and ends with the Aaron’s Dream Weekend at Talladega Superspeedway, April 25 - 27.
“The Alabama Speedweek concept has turned into a great success for Talladega Superspeedway, Barber Motorsports Park and the state of Alabama,” said Talladega Superspeedway President Rick Humphrey. “Race fans can experience racing at two of the nation’s premier tracks during the weekends and enjoy many of Alabama’s entertainment options during the week. Additionally, the Speedweek Combo Pass makes this a phenomenal value for anyone seeking a weeklong vacation.”
The Speedweek Combo Pass allows race fans to enjoy six days of world-class racing at both Barber Motorsports Park and Talladega Superspeedway for only $100! This extraordinary value includes a 3-day pass to the Honda Superbike Classic at Barber Motorsports Park, featuring the AMA Superbike Championship Series, and a 3-day pass to the Aaron’s Dream Weekend, featuring the NASCAR Nationwide and Sprint Cup Series.
“Alabama Speedweek gives the motorsports fan the best of both two- and four-wheeled worlds,” says Brett Collins, VP of ZOOM Motorsports. “In addition, the Speedweek Combo Pass offers competitive racing at two great facilities for one incredible value. We encourage fans to explore the fantastic activities the state has to offer in between race weekends.”
The world-renowned Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Ala. hosts the sixth annual AMA Superbike Championship Series, April 18-20. The Honda Superbike Classic is a Superbike double-header with one Superbike race on Saturday and a second Superbike race on Sunday. This premier motorcycle event features three other races for a total of five races over the weekend. Kids age 12 and younger are admitted free of charge to the Honda Superbike Classic at Barber Motorsports Park when accompanied by a paid adult.
Alabama Speedweek concludes with Talladega Superspeedway hosting its first race of the 2008 NASCAR season during the Aaron’s Dream Weekend, April 25-27, featuring the Aaron’s 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series and Aaron’s 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races. Friday, April 25 features NASCAR Sprint Cup Series practice and The Birmingham News Qualifying for the NASCAR Nationwide Series. Saturday, April 26 features The Birmingham News Qualifying for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and the Aaron’s 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series race. Then on Sunday, April 27, NASCAR’s greatest drivers compete in the Aaron’s 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. Kids age 11 and younger are admitted free of charge on Fridays and Saturdays of race weekend when accompanied by a ticketed adult.
TALLADEGA — Officials from Talladega Superspeedway and Barber Motorsports Park are preparing for the green flag to wave on the third annual Alabama Speedweek, April 18 - 27. Speedweek begins with Barber Motorsports Park hosting the AMA Honda Superbike Classic, April 18 - 20, and ends with the Aaron’s Dream Weekend at Talladega Superspeedway, April 25 - 27.
“The Alabama Speedweek concept has turned into a great success for Talladega Superspeedway, Barber Motorsports Park and the state of Alabama,” said Talladega Superspeedway President Rick Humphrey. “Race fans can experience racing at two of the nation’s premier tracks during the weekends and enjoy many of Alabama’s entertainment options during the week. Additionally, the Speedweek Combo Pass makes this a phenomenal value for anyone seeking a weeklong vacation.”
The Speedweek Combo Pass allows race fans to enjoy six days of world-class racing at both Barber Motorsports Park and Talladega Superspeedway for only $100! This extraordinary value includes a 3-day pass to the Honda Superbike Classic at Barber Motorsports Park, featuring the AMA Superbike Championship Series, and a 3-day pass to the Aaron’s Dream Weekend, featuring the NASCAR Nationwide and Sprint Cup Series.
“Alabama Speedweek gives the motorsports fan the best of both two- and four-wheeled worlds,” says Brett Collins, VP of ZOOM Motorsports. “In addition, the Speedweek Combo Pass offers competitive racing at two great facilities for one incredible value. We encourage fans to explore the fantastic activities the state has to offer in between race weekends.”
The world-renowned Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Ala. hosts the sixth annual AMA Superbike Championship Series, April 18-20. The Honda Superbike Classic is a Superbike double-header with one Superbike race on Saturday and a second Superbike race on Sunday. This premier motorcycle event features three other races for a total of five races over the weekend. Kids age 12 and younger are admitted free of charge to the Honda Superbike Classic at Barber Motorsports Park when accompanied by a paid adult.
Alabama Speedweek concludes with Talladega Superspeedway hosting its first race of the 2008 NASCAR season during the Aaron’s Dream Weekend, April 25-27, featuring the Aaron’s 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series and Aaron’s 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races. Friday, April 25 features NASCAR Sprint Cup Series practice and The Birmingham News Qualifying for the NASCAR Nationwide Series. Saturday, April 26 features The Birmingham News Qualifying for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and the Aaron’s 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series race. Then on Sunday, April 27, NASCAR’s greatest drivers compete in the Aaron’s 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. Kids age 11 and younger are admitted free of charge on Fridays and Saturdays of race weekend when accompanied by a ticketed adult.
For more information on all of these events, go to www.alabamaspeedweek.com.
Labels:
Alabama Speedweek,
Talladega
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