Venue Quest Story and photos by Dwight Drum Web work by Larsen & Drum
'Dega Bound, 'Dega Bond
Talladega Superspeedway has been and remains a must-destination for thousands of Southern racing fans. The draw is the longest track on the NASCAR circuit sitting on 3000 acres offering free day parking. The bonus is the festive atmosphere provided by ample camping on nearby hills and infield parks attracting fire pits, portable showers, tents and motor homes.
The purpose is race day and some how fans avoid economic cycles to attend and fill 143,000 seats. Former ARCA driver and team owner Andy Belmont is never amazed by the number of racers who enter the fall companion ARCA RE/MAX Series race at 'Dega. The staggering cost of racing continues to rise, but the field of teams is abundant anyway. "They find the money to race," Belmont said.
Just like the racers finding the money to race, fans even during troubled economic troughs with high-priced gasoline find the money to attend and watch at 'Dega. The recent Spring race had full grandstands on race day.
Caravans of campers and motor homes create creeping traffic for days on miles of local highways in and out of normally rural Alabama turf.
'Dega Bound is the motto and 'Dega bond is the reality. It's not just a destination, it's a celebration.
At Talladega it's difficult for drivers to avoid the "big one", the crash that collects many cars. It seems inevitable the big track is frequently a big spot for multi-car wrecks. Winning burnouts follow many incidents of smoking cars and parts.
Clint Bowyer talks to ESPN reporter Shannon Spake. Carl Edwards and Jason Leffler relax moments before climbing into their Nationwide cars. Nationwide Series competitor Steven Wallace greets uncles, Kenny and Mike Wallace.
Spent tires wait reclaiming by Goodyear. Open garage stalls are the norm at qualifying time.
© 2008 Dwight Drum
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