Thunderhill Raceway Park

Thunderhill Raceway Park 概览与规格

赛道长度 : 7.403 km (4.600 miles)
弯道数量 : 42
所在洲 : 北美洲
国家 / 地区 : 美国
州 / 省 : California
位置 : 5250 State Highway 162, Willows, CA 95988
英文名称 : Thunderhill Raceway Park
别名 : Thunderschleife

Thunderhill Raceway Park is a motorsport complex located in Glenn County, California, United States. It is known for its multiple track configurations and use in various racing disciplines, primarily road racing and club-level motorsports.

Circuit Layout & Key Specifications

Location: Glenn County, California, United States
Track Length: 3.0 miles (4.83 km) in its full Thunderhill East-West configuration
Layouts: Multiple configurations including Thunderhill East (1.9 miles / 3.06 km), West (1.0 mile / 1.61 km), and combined East-West (3.0 miles / 4.83 km)
Surface: Asphalt
Direction: Clockwise
Elevation change: Approximately 170 feet (52 meters) across the circuit

Track Characteristics

Combination of fast sweeping corners and technical sections
Moderate elevation changes providing varied driving challenges
Mix of high-speed straights and tight turns
Designed primarily for road racing events and driver training

Key Corners

Turn 3 (Big Bend): A fast right-hander requiring precision and smooth throttle application
Turn 5: A slow, tight right-hander that tests braking and corner exit techniques
Turn 8: A sharp left-hander with limited runoff, demanding accuracy
Turn 11: A high-speed right-hand sweeper leading onto the main straight

Lap Record & Performance Benchmarks

Overall fastest known lap: 1:39.2 (car class, specific event not officially documented)
Club racing average lap times: Approximately 1:45 - 1:50 depending on vehicle class and layout
No widely recognized professional series lap record available

Racing History & Major Events

Hosts regional club racing events, time trials, driver schools, and endurance races
Venue for notable endurance events such as the 25 Hours of Thunderhill, a major amateur endurance race
Primary facility for local SCCA and NASA events

Facilities & Infrastructure

Paddock area with ample space for teams and trailers
Garages and support buildings
Timing and scoring tower
Medical and safety facilities compliant with regional motorsport standards

Spectator Experience

Viewing areas at key corners and straights
Limited permanent grandstands; spectators generally use grassy areas
Onsite amenities include restrooms and concessions during major events

Location & Accessibility

Situated approximately 7 miles east of Willows, California
Accessible via Interstate 5 (I-5), served by local roads
Parking available on site for participants and spectators

Summary

Thunderhill Raceway Park is a 3.0-mile road racing facility in Glenn County, California, offering multiple track layouts suited for club racing and endurance events. The circuit features a mix of fast sweeps, technical corners, and elevation changes. It is best known for hosting the 25 Hours of Thunderhill endurance race and serves as a hub for local and regional motorsport activities. Facilities include paddocks, garages, and safety infrastructure, with spectator viewing primarily from natural terrain areas.