Community Corner

Take 2 Laps Around Talladega Superspeedway For Tornado Relief

Talladega Superspeedway has launched a fundraiser where people can drive their cars around the track to raise money for tornado victims.

Denny Hamlin (11) and Kurt Busch (1) lead the field to the start of the YellaWood 500 NASCAR auto race at Talladega Superspeedway, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2020, in Talladega
Denny Hamlin (11) and Kurt Busch (1) lead the field to the start of the YellaWood 500 NASCAR auto race at Talladega Superspeedway, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2020, in Talladega (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

TALLADEGA, AL — Fans have the chance Friday to climb behind the wheel of their own vehicle, buckle up and tackle NASCAR’s biggest track — Talladega Superspeedway — while assisting victims of last week’s tornados that ripped through the state of Alabama.

With a $50 donation per vehicle, participants can drive around the track for two full laps with the proceeds to benefit the American Red Cross Alabama Disaster Relief through ‘Dega Gives, a donor advised fund of The NASCAR Foundation. The event is scheduled from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. CDT.

Pre-registration is highly recommended to guarantee a spot. The “Drives” can also be purchased day of event.

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Friday’s event provides fans the opportunity to take their street legal vehicle around the mammoth 33-degree-banks at highway speed behind a Talladega Safety/Pace truck. No vehicles will be will be allowed on the top lane of the Superspeedway, and no passing will be allowed. All participants will be required to stay in their personal vehicle at all times.

“In a time like this it’s so important for all the members of the community to come together and support our neighbors,” said Talladega Superspeedway President Brian Crichton. “We feel so much compassion for everyone who was affected by last week’s storms, including those near the superspeedway in Ohatchee.

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“I’d like to challenge all race fans out there, as well as those who are thrill seekers, to come out this Friday and drive on the biggest and baddest racing venue on the planet. The hope is that the opportunity to drive on the high banks of the 2.66-mile layout will give incentive to get as many people as possible involved. Plus, Friday’s weather looks incredible.”

Participants behind the wheel must have a valid driver’s license, and all vehicles must have a valid license plate. Each vehicle must be equipped with enough seatbelts for all passengers. Vehicles deemed unsafe by TSS staff will not be allowed onto the track for a track drive. No motorcycles, RV’s or tractor trailers will be allowed on the track.

Those who participate will be allowed to enter the Talladega infield through the Turn 3 Tunnel and will proceed to the staging area. Traffic cones and directional signs will be on property to assist. Each Drive will originate from pit road. All participants must execute a Talladega Superspeedway track and COVID-19 waiver. There will be no public restrooms available.

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