This past weekend, I traveled to Darlington Raceway for my first trip to the historic speedway.
A small town, close to 7,000 residents, Darlington, S.C. came to life when the roaring sounds of stock cars and tens of thousands of passionate fans stormed Darlington Raceway.
Built in 1949, Darlington Raceway is unique. It is an egg-shaped speedway that requires the best in drivers. The track configuration and its narrow racing surface make Darlington one of the roughest, toughest stops on the schedule.
Considered “The Track Too Tough to Tame,” Darlington Raceway is a test of endurance and grit; a track that tends to separate the haves from the have-nots. If you want to finish well at Darlington, you have to earn the respect of The Lady in Black.
In a remarkable race on Friday, rookie Chase Elliot won his second consecutive race in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, edging out Elliot Sadler with a last lap pass coming out of turn four. Rookies generally have a difficult time at Darlington, but for Elliot, it was an incredible accomplishment.
On Saturday, there was plenty of time to appreciate what Elliot did on Friday, but also anticipation for Saturday’s main feature – the Bojangles Southern 500.
The Southern 500 is one of NASCAR’s crown jewel races.
Similar to the Daytona 500 and Brickyard 400 at Indy, it is a race that if won, helps build a driver’s legacy in the sport. For a driver to say they won the Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway is something only a few drivers can claim.
Icons of the sport including, Pearson, Earnhardt and Gordon, have tamed the legendary track. Yet, even they know that when Darlington has its turn in the spotlight, it is still a daunting task to make it to Victory Lane. Victory at Darlington requires three things: fortitude, will-power and a freaky fast car.
Kevin Harvick captured his first checkered flag at Darlington Raceway on Saturday, passing Dale Earnhardt Jr.from turn four with one lap to go in the race. Arguably the best car all day, Harvick made an impressive move (similar to Elliot’s on Friday) and gave the fans a show worth every penny spent.
Amazed by my experience at Darlington Raceway, it is a track so rich in history and tradition. Unlike any other track, this place is special. The feeling can’t be explained, only appreciated. Its character and keen structure made me appreciate why it’s marveled in NASCAR history and will never be a thing of the past.
When I’m old and gray, and my doctor asks me, “Son how’d you get in this position?” I’ll say, “Hey sawbones, I’m just carrying on an ole Darlington tradition.”
Memories tend to last a lifetime, but traditions must carry on.
The tradition has commenced.