The Great American Race
 When it comes to American car races, it doesn't get much bigger than the Daytona 500. It is arguably the most important race of the year for drivers and their teams, as well as for fans, television ratings and sponsors. Not only is it the biggest event in all of racing, but it is also one of the largest and best known events in all of sports. It is similar to the super bowl where there is a long pre-show filled with star-studded performances. However, instead of being the culmination of events at the end of the season, it is actually the first race of the year and kicks off the new season. There are 43 drivers who compete for the largest purse, or payout, of any NASCAR race. In addition to gaining a spot in racing history, the winner typically goes on to receive an onslaught of media attention, as well as lucrative endorsement deals.
It is named the Daytona 500 because of the location and the number of miles that the racers must complete. The Speedway track itself, which is 40 feet wide in the shape of a long square with rounded edges, is only 2.5 miles long, so to complete the entire 500-miles the racers must do 200 laps. There have been some instances where the race has ended early due to rain which is possible because the race is actually considered official after 100 laps or 250 miles, which is half the distance. In 1974 it was shortened on purpose due to the energy crisis. The start time has varied over the years because of such things as track conditions, the lighting system and the the demands of the television networks.
The race is held in Daytona Beach, Florida at the Daytona International Speedway. It is held either the second or third Sunday in February, usually on Presidents Day weekend. Because of the many attractions and Florida's warm winter weather it is a yearly destination for devout race fans. Many people stay for several days or even the entire week. There is even a museum and gallery located adjacent to the track that is open year-round dedicated to the race, called the Daytona 500 Experience, where visitors can take part in challenges, trivia games, see exhibits and memorabilia, take tours of the track and even ride on the track at speeds of 160 mph. They can also view the Harley J. Earl Trophy which is on permanent display. When a driver wins the race they are presented with this trophy, however, they don't get to keep it. Instead they are given a miniature replica.
Many fans who are unable to travel to Florida have annual Daytona 500 parties. Friends and family gather around a large screen television set on the Sunday of the race, indulge in food and drink, and place friendly wagers on who will win. Racing is a popular sport for spectators of all ages because in spite of all the varying and somewhat confusing qualifying procedures and the points system, it all boils down to who crosses that finish line first. There is usually a lot of drama during the race as well, with tire blow outs, engine fires, intense pit stops, drivers butting into other cars and car crashes.
The first race held at the Daytona International Speedway was in 1959. The controversial finish may have played a part in making this annual race so popular. Three drivers, Lee Petty, Johnny Beauchamp, and Joe Weatherly crossed the finish line practically at the same time. It was very close, but Johnny Beauchamp was crowned the winner. However, after a three day review of both film and photographs, the call was reversed, making Lee Petty the real winner. Ever since then, there have been many exciting finishes and a whole lot of drama. |
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