What is so special about the Daytona 500?
The Daytona 500 is regarded as the most important and prestigious race on the NASCAR calendar, carrying by far the largest purse. Championship points awarded are equal to that of any other NASCAR Cup Series race.
How does the Daytona 500 work?
In time trials, the two fastest Open cars will automatically be locked into the Daytona 500, guaranteeing them at least starting spots 39 and 40. The remaining four cars will have to race their way in, with the highest-finishing Open car in their respective Duel earning a starting spot in the Daytona 500.
What does the 500 stand for in Daytona 500?
The “500” in the Daytona 500 name stands for the mileage, not the laps. The 2 1/2-mile track at the Daytona International Speedway lends itself to a 200-lap race. The track is one of three superspeedways that host NASCAR Cup Series races: Indianapolis Superspeedway and Talladega Superspeedway are the other circuits.
What is Daytona Speedway used for?
The Speedway grounds are also used for events that include civic and social gatherings, car shows, athletic games, production vehicle testing and police motorcycle training.
What kind of car won the Daytona 500?
2019 Daytona 500, winner – Denny Hamlin Denny Hamlin won the 61st annual Daytona 500 driving the No. 11 Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing. Hamlin led 30 laps and beat out teammate Kyle Busch, who led 37 laps, for his second victory in the event.
Why is there a lake in the middle of Daytona Speedway?
The lake, named for J. Saxton Lloyd, a local Daytona notable, served as a retention pond to prevent flooding in all but the most extreme circumstances. NASCAR founder Bill France ordered the lake stocked with 65,000 fish, and that’s where the legend of Lake Lloyd began.
How fast do Daytona 500 cars go?
200 mph
At the Daytona 500 in Florida this weekend, souped-up cars will chase each other around a 2.5-mile track at speeds approaching 200 mph. They’ll do this for 200 laps, for a total distance of 500 miles. But this is what’s truly crazy: For much of the race, the cars will be just inches apart from one another.
Has a woman ever won the Daytona 500?
In 2013, Patrick became the first woman in Sprint Cup history to have a full-time ride in the series (with Stewart-Haas Racing), and eventually the first female driver to clinch the pole position and lead a green flag lap, both occurring at the 2013 Daytona 500, becoming the first woman to lead both the Indianapolis …
Why is the Daytona 500 such an important race?
The Daytona 500 is the most important, most revered race of the NASCAR season. It is the Super Bowl of the sport and every driver’s goal is to win the prestigious race. For such an important race, one would think that the honorary starter might be someone worthy of respect by the fans and deserving of the honor.
When does Daytona 500 actually start?
What time does the Daytona 500 actually start? The Daytona 500 is listed as an 1 p.m. Eastern start time, but it’s important to note the green flag won’t actually fly until 1:29 p.m.
What are the most cars starting the Daytona 500?
The Daytona in the starting order, and there is a good chance the Hendrick and Team Penske drivers spend most of the first stage in front of the field. The Hendrick Motorsports cars were
What can you take into the Daytona 500?
Can you take alcohol into Daytona Speedway? Yes, you can bring your own beer into Daytona International Speedway as long as they are in the frontstretch seating areas. The cooler can hold up to 24-36 cans, have a single wall removable plastic liner, and can be packed with ice cubes or ice packs.