What is the Shortest Track in NASCAR?
NASCAR, the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, is the most popular form of motorsports in the United States. It’s known for its high-speed racing on oval shaped tracks, and each track has its own length and characteristics. While some tracks are up to two miles long, the shortest track in NASCAR is Martinsville Speedway, located in Martinsville, Virginia. It’s the only track in NASCAR that measures less than one mile.
History of Martinsville Speedway
Martinsville Speedway was constructed in 1947 by H. Clay Earles, who had previously owned a local dirt track. The track was built in the style of a flat, half-mile oval, with a half-mile long straightaway. Clay earles named the track after Martinsville, the small Virginia town that is located approximately 20 miles north of the speedway.
The first NASCAR race at Martinsville was held on September 7, 1947. It was a 200-lap race on the dirt track, with Bill France Sr. taking the checkered flag. The track was paved over in 1955, and the first NASCAR Grand National race on a paved track was held on October 29th of that same year.
Martinsville Speedway Today
Today, Martinsville Speedway is still a half-mile oval, making it the shortest track in NASCAR. The track is a favorite among drivers and fans alike, as it is the only track on the circuit that has remained nearly unchanged since it opened in 1947. The track is also known for its tight turns and short straightaways, which create some of the most intense racing in NASCAR.
The track hosts two of the biggest NASCAR events each year: the STP 500 and the Goody’s Fast Relief 500. The STP 500 is held in the spring, and the Goody’s Fast Relief 500 is held in the fall. Both events are 500-lap races with the winner taking home the checkered flag.
Notable Races at Martinsville Speedway
Martinsville Speedway has been the site of some of the most memorable races in NASCAR history. Some of the most notable races include the 1993 NASCAR Winston Cup Series race, which saw Dale Earnhardt take the checkered flag after a thrilling battle with Jeff Gordon. The 1998 race also saw Jeff Gordon take the win in a dramatic come-from-behind victory.
The most recent memorable race was the 2018 Goody’s Fast Relief 500, which saw Martin Truex Jr. take the checkered flag after a thrilling battle with Kyle Larson. The race was notable for its close finish, with Truex crossing the finish line just 0.056 seconds ahead of Larson.