Martinsville 500 Spring Race

Martinsville Speedway --- Martinsville, Virginia

As the NASCAR season moves progressively north, Martinsville Speedway plays host to the Martinsville 500 (STP 500). Just like the Bristol track, Martinsville is a short track, in fact, at only .526 miles around it is the smallest track used on the NASCAR circuit. Martinsville is one of the oldest raceways in use, as it was built in 1947. The Speedway boasts a seating capacity of 65,000, and is expecting a 20,000 seat upgrade to be completed within the next few years. With only half a mile of race track and twelve turns, racing at Martinsville is always a close competition with cars stacked on top of each other.

Martinsville has a rich history. It was founded in the 18th century as a strategic barracks point for American revolutionaries. It gained economic autonomy when the DuPont Corporation built a chemical manufacturing plant there in 1928. Famous for its furniture building, Martinsville has moved into the 21st century gracefully as it is now home to numerous technological development firms.

The city’s two NASCAR races are the highlights of the year, as the whole city gets out to celebrate. Martinsville is one of the most historic tracks on the NASCAR circuit, so come on down and see for yourself this spring!