Iowa Speedway can be found in Newton Iowa. It is a 7/8 mile oval paved motor racing track. It is located just 30 mi east of Des Moines. The Iowa Speedway has a capacity of over 25,000 for permanent seats, including a unique multi-tiered RV viewing area along the backstretch. The track will likely expand during the 2015 racing seasons to accommodate the growing fanbase. Plans include expanding the permanent seating capacity and adding a SAFER barrier.
Expansion funding
A major expansion at the Iowa Speedway could hinge on the approval of $8 million in additional state funding. Dan Kelley, a Newton Democrat hopes to get lawmakers to give public funds to the project. The proposal calls upon the speedway for a permanent seating area and a new grandstand. It is expected the speedway will host a national sprint car championship race. Funding for the expansion of the capacity will be difficult.
Perhaps a new owner is the solution. As a third option to a refinance deal, a new owner may be interested in developing the area surrounding the speedway. The Speedway has already landed a new CEO, Doug Fritz, who was handpicked by Wallace to run the track. Wallace's new owner, however, has a greater chance of the expansion being completed. A new group could bring a new perspective and make it easier for the speedway to fulfill its vision.
Future races on the track are in the works
IndyCar will make a return to Iowa Speedway next year after having been absent for 14 years. On July 22-23, a doubleheader will take place at the oval's short oval. The deal was arranged by Hy-Vee (a Newton-based grocery store chain). They will serve as the entitlement sponsor for both races. Team Penske and the three other parties have been trying to increase Hy-Vee’s presence in this series.
The NTT IndyCar Series is interested in returning to Iowa Speedway. There are only four oval races on the 16-race series schedule this year. However, the series has moved away from such venues in recent decades. Oval races allow for closer racing and more mental endurance. Iowa Speedway, a small oval, has been hosting IndyCar racing since 2007. IndyCar made its last visit to the track in 2007 but it is not scheduled for 2021.
Plans to install a SAFER Barrier on the track
The Midwest Roadside Safety Facility (based at the University of Nebraska Lincoln) developed the SAFER Barrier. The purpose of the barrier is to protect fans from errant race cars. Midwest Roadside Safety Facility worked with tracks to create barriers that would reduce the impact of race cars on retaining walls. The first SAFER Barrier was installed by the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2002. It is made from foam and steel. It's being retrofitted onto existing concrete walls on racetracks across the country.
Initial tests of the barrier didn't consider the possibility that tires might deflate before they hit the barrier. This would have increased the contact between the car and the barrier. The tires were less in contact with the wall than they expected due to this. McGehee crashed into the wall after his left tire on the rear lost air pressure. This caused McGehee to lose control of the car and spin. Before the crash, his other tires went flat.
Plans to expand infield beer gardens
Iowa Speedway is planning to add an infield brewery garden to its turn 4 area this weekend. The new beer garden will be available to fans who have Casey's General Stores Fans Walk wristbands. Speedway will now have ice cold beer available on tap, casual seating, tailgate games, and laser tag inside an inflatable course. Fans can relax in a new beer garden after a hard day at the track.
New ownership of the Speedway is a win-win for both racegoers and fans. The speedway's aging infield beer garden has become overcrowded. The track has long been a favorite of locals, and it's now home to the world's premier drag racing event. The new owners have plans to expand the beer garden. NASCAR took over ownership of the track in 2006.
FAQ
What is the purpose behind car racing?
The purpose of car racing is to entertain people by watching cars go around a track at high speeds. It's also an opportunity for drivers to show off their skills and compete against each other.
Who is the inventor of car racing?
Charles Brady King was the inventor of this racecourse, which was built in Long Island, New York in 1896. On July 4, 1896, the first automobile race was held.
Which type of car racing is the most popular?
Formula 1 Grand Prix is considered the most important motorsport championship in the world. It was first held in 1950 and is now part of the FIA World Championship for Drivers, Constructors, and Teams.
Do race car drivers earn money?
Yes. Yes. Many race car driver earn a living wage.
But, not all race car drivers earn a large income.
Which country hosts the most auto races?
USA - Car races are held in more than 100 countries. The USA holds the most car races with over 300 per year.
Statistics
- This change may give an improvement of up to 29% fuel efficiency. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to thepostgame.com, “The Daytona 500 is one of four ‘restrictor plate' races on NASCAR's calendar, given both safety and competitive concerns for the long track and its famous 31-degree banking in its four corners.” (defensivedriving.com)
- In 2009, the slick tires returned as a part of revisions to the rules for the 2009 season; slicks have no grooves and give up to 18% more contact with the track. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to AutoSport, IndyCar's top speeds are 380km/h or 236 mph. (motorbiscuit.com)
- In 2013 Ferrari had an estimated team budget of $470 million, while elite IndyCar teams have an estimated annual budget of $15 million, according to FormulaMoney. (businessinsider.com)
External Links
How To
How do I make money driving?
If you are serious about racing professionally, you will likely need to earn money in order to be eligible for a championship. While racing, many racers continue to work full time jobs. Others use their off days to sell merchandise or promote themselves as endorsers. Other drivers may also take part on paid test sessions in order to prove their ability to drive professionally.