Track
Description (from track web site)
Willow Springs International Motor sports Park is a
600-acre complex of six racetracks embracing nearly every conceivable
motor sports discipline. The park is located about an hour north of Los
Angeles, California near Lancaster.
The original track at the facility, Willow Springs
International Raceway, celebrates its 50th birthday this year, and is
steeped in historical significance. Construction of the track began in
1952, with the inaugural event held on November 23, 1953. The fact that
it has been running continuously since then has caused the state of
California to recognize Willow Springs International Raceway as an
Official California Point of Historical Interest. This world-famous
track hosted the first two NASCAR events west of the Mississippi, the
first F.I.M. 500 Grand Prix motorcycle race in America, the first AMA
events, the first 24-hour motorcycle endurance race, the first kart road
racing in America, and the first California Sports Car Club racing on a
purpose-built road course. Over the years, track records have been set
and broken many times by internationally famous drivers and riders.
Willow Springs International Raceway is a super fast
2.5-mile / nine-turn road racing circuit, patterned after the great
courses and road racing traditions of Europe, and is unchanged from its
original 1953 configuration. With its substantial elevation changes and
high average speeds, Willow Springs is one of the fastest and most
challenging tracks in the country. Also known as the Fastest Road in the
West, this track is one of the safest road courses in the world, despite
its high velocities. Cornering speeds on this track range from about 70
mph to over 170 mph, with straightaway speeds nearing 200 mph possible
with fastest cars and motorcycles.
With its long and short straight-aways, tight corners,
and long sweeping turns, there aren't many road courses in the world
with spectator viewing like Willow Springs. Guests can see almost the
entire racecourse from just about anywhere, including the many trackside
camping areas. Spectator amenities include two full-service diners with
full bars, a well-stocked gift shop, plenty of spectators seating and
parking modern rest rooms, and outstanding viewing areas. Large viewing
areas are available for RV parking and camping, including several full
hookups for trailers and motor homes. Racer amenities include several
enclosed garages available for use by competitors and testers, with
racing fuel and tire services available at the track daily.
Willow Springs International Motor sports Park also
includes the following facilities: The Streets of Willow Springs (a
1.8-mile road course); Walt James Stadium (Clay Oval and Paved Oval);
Willow Springs Speedway (a lighted 1/4-mile paved oval), Willow Springs
Kart Track (a .625-mile, 9-turn paved sprint track); The Playpen (a
1/4-mile paved training track); and approximately 160 acres of off-road,
mountainous terrain. Another 1-mile road course and a 1.2-mile road
course are now under construction as well.
