Darlington Raceway

サーキット情報

大陸: 北米
国名/地域: アメリカ合衆国
サーキット名: Darlington Raceway
サーキットの長さ: 2.198 km (1.366 miles)
ベンド数: 4
サーキットアドレス: 1301 Harry Byrd Highway, Darlington, South Carolina 29532

サーキット概要

Darlington Raceway is a motorsport venue located in Darlington, South Carolina, United States. It is primarily known for hosting stock car racing events and is a staple track in American motorsport history. The circuit is recognized for its unique oval configuration and challenging racing conditions.

Circuit Layout & Key Specifications

Type: Oval racetrack
Length: 1.366 miles (2.198 kilometers)
Shape: Egg-shaped oval
Turns: 4
Banking:
- Turns 1 & 2: 25 degrees
- Turns 3 & 4: 23 degrees
- Front stretch: 6 degrees
- Back stretch: 2 degrees
Surface: Asphalt

Track Characteristics

Distinctive asymmetric layout due to proximity to a former minnow pond
Highly demanding on car setup and driver skill due to varied corner radius and banking
Narrow racing groove combined with abrasive surface increases tire wear
Requires careful throttle control through corners

Key Corners

Turns 1 & 2: High-speed, heavily banked with a sharper radius; demands precise entry and exit
Turns 3 & 4: Flatter than Turns 1 & 2 with a wider radius; challenges braking stability and exit acceleration

Lap Record & Performance Benchmarks

Overall fastest official lap: Approximately 26.7 seconds (NASCAR Cup Series qualifying, average speed ~184 mph)
Series-specific lap records primarily pertain to NASCAR events
Race pace varies significantly due to tire wear and traffic

Racing History & Major Events

Opened in 1950
Hosts the annual NASCAR Cup Series events: the Southern 500 and the Goodyear 400
Known as “The Track Too Tough to Tame”
Venue has contributed significant moments in stock car racing history

Facilities & Infrastructure

Seating capacity: Approximately 60,000 permanent seats with additional capacity during major events
Modern pit road and paddock areas
Media center and hospitality suites for teams and sponsors
Facilities support large-scale event operations and fan engagement

Spectator Experience

Multiple grandstands offering views of key corners and straightaways
Close proximity to track action due to compact design
Available amenities include food vendors, merchandise shops, and fan zones

Location & Accessibility

Situated in Darlington, South Carolina, United States
Accessible by road via Interstate 20 and US Route 52
Located roughly 75 miles northeast of Charleston, SC
Parking facilities and shuttle services available during major events

Summary

Darlington Raceway is a 1.366-mile egg-shaped oval located in Darlington, South Carolina, featuring distinctive asymmetric banking and challenging corners. It is a historic NASCAR venue known for high tire wear and demanding driver skill. Key events include the Southern 500. The track offers modern facilities and accessible spectator viewing.