Phoenix International Raceway: NASCAR Track Reviews

When it comes to being at the Phoenix International Raceway, all paths lead to Avondale. This historic track was carved out of the Estrella Mountain foothills and is considered one of the newest jewels of American car racing. Come April 10^th, racing fans will find Phoenix International Raceway at the center stage of the NASCAR world.

The History

Auto racing was popular in the Southwest and in Phoenix most events took place at the Arizona State Fairgrounds; whoever, the locals wanted to build a replacement track. By January 1964, the new track, the Phoenix International Raceway was completed. By the next month, heavy racing was underway. Indy styled events were the rave. Racecar driver Davey MacDonald won the first race held at PIR on February 16, 1964. By the next month, A. J. Foyt won the tracks first oval race.

Drivers and Hollywood stars loved the track. Hollywood star Steve McQueen even raced and won on the track in 1970. Scores of NASCAR's biggest names began to flock to and take turns on the track. It took more than two decades, however, for NASCAR to decide to add Phoenix to its Sprint Cup series locales.

In 1977, the two day events, including the Copper World Classic, were commonly held on the track and road courses. By July 1987, the announcement was made that Phoenix would be added to the Winston Cup series schedule and on November 6, 1988. On that date, Polish drive Alan Kulwicki won the Checker 500.

As improvements to the track continue through the 1980s, drivers continue to test the track. In 1992, Michael Andretti became the first driver to top 170 miles per hour. And nearly 4 years later, Arie Luyendyk of Scotsdale sets a one-lap world record for speed on a true one-mile oval of 183.599 mph.

In April 1997, the Phoenix Phoenix International Raceway goes under new management and newer innovations occur. Track lights are added and a historic night race is held on March 30, 2005. And now, NASCAR at night has become a tradition!

In 2005, Indy style events came to a halt as Phoenix's management was seeking to take the track into a new direction. However, NASCAR events are staple attractions for the favored speedway.

The Specifications

Phoenix International Raceway's track is distinguishable from many of the others on the NASCAR circuit. Besides being carved into some of the most stunning scenery racing fans have ever seen, the track is not symmetrical, but pretty close to being an oval, actually a tri-oval. It's first and second turns have 11 degree banking while the third and fourth turns are only 9 degrees. The front and back stretches are 1,179 and 1,551 feet, respectively.

The tracks has sweet spots. The various sections, like the A.J. Foyt and the Jimmy Bryan, offer prime views. The Allison Grandstand and Richard Petty section offers clear views of the entire track. Seating above row 20 also provides for optimum viewing.

The Races

The Phoenix is home to many NASAR competitions, including the Subway Fresh Fit 600, the Jimmie Johnson 100 and the Bashas Supermarket 200. Don't forget one of its lasting annual events, the Checker O'Reilly Auto Parts 500. Additional races include USAC Silver Crown, USAC Midget 25, the Able Body Labor 200, and the Lucas Oil 150.

The Experience

The fans love Phoenix. It is in the center of great tourist attractions and its facilities offer so much. The grandstand can accommodate more than 75,000 fans. The seating is spacious. If you want to camp out or bring your RV, no problem. Also, Phoenix offers some of the best local accommodations and best dining on site, such as the Speed Cantina. And, don't forget your online track guide, which outlines the attractions as well as the rules for a enjoyable experience at the Phoenix International.

Since its opening, The Phoenix International Raceway has hosted countless races. Some of the most legendary figures in auto racing have thundered down its track. And fans, as well as drivers, love it. Like the mythical bird for which it's named, the Phoenix International Raceway will always offer fiery excitement to the sport of auto racing.

If you are interested in more information on the Phoenix International Raceway or its history, check out the following links:

http://www.nascar.com/races/tracks/pir/index.html

http://www.phoenixraceway.com/ About-Us/Timeline.aspx

http://www.sportstravel.com/venues/phoenix-international-raceway.php