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Phoenix International Raceway

History

On February 16, 1964, PIR opened its gates to the public for the first time. Davey MacDonald became the first driver ever to win an event at PIR, claiming victory in an open sports car event held on the road course. This would begin a long string of noteworthy races and press coverage at the historic raceway. Even Hollywood legend Steve McQueen has competed at Phoenix International Raceway, winning a road course event in October of 1970.

On November 26, 1978, Richard Petty would win the first of his three NASCAR Winston West Series victories at PIR, setting the stage for many great NASCAR races to come. PIR began hosting the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series in 1988, in a famous race which was won by Alan Kulwicki. This race has gone down in this history books, due in part to Kulwicki’s now famous reverse victory lap, in which he drove the entire course in the opposite direction to the delight of fans. Since that day, PIR has been one of the top NASCAR tracks in the country, and a solidified destination for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.

The Track

PIR is one of the most unique and identifiable tracks ever built, largely as a result of its innovative design. As opposed to many other tracks, PIR is completely flat, and without banked turns. This creates an action packed racing environment, as drivers must alter their style for this track, taking extra care to ensure that they have sufficient grip. In addition, PIR is known for “the dogleg,” a curved backstretch between turns two and three which demands flawless throttle control and careful attention to exit speeds. In a recent Sport Illustrated poll, PIR was voted as one of the top favorite tracks of NASCAR drivers, no doubt as a result of its departure from convention. Fans with a keen eye will also recognize PIR’s distinct track for its starring role in the 2004 film “Taxi.”

A Fan Favorite

To NASCAR fans, PIR offers some of the best viewing areas of any track, including the “Hillside,” just off of turn four, atop Monument Hill. Monument Hill is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. PIR also features the newly constructed Bobby Allison Grandstand, offering fans a sweeping panoramic view of the entire track just outside of turns one and two. PIR is constantly striving to provide a first class racing experience for their attendees, which includes the successful debut of Octane, an upscale lounge above turn one, where fans can relax and enjoy the race from six stories up. SPEED Cantina is PIR’s newest attraction. A collaboration with the SPEED channel, this sports bar and grill offers race-goers another great dining and entertainment option on raceday. With a capacity of over 76,000, PIR is truly leading the way in the creating the complete NASCAR experience for fans.

The Future of Phoenix International Raceway

PIR is actively expanding its schedule of NASCAR races, holding high profile events such as the Subway Fresh Fit 500, the Checker Auto Parts 500, and the always exciting NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Phoenix 150. With the spectacular fan base that PIR draws to each and every series, it’s no wonder that PIR is considered one of the leading venues in the industry. Phoenix International Raceway’s staff and owners are committed to constant improvement and will ensure that PIR is a mainstay in the racing world for years to come.

Read more about Mark Green and his teammate Kenny Wallace, both of whom race for Jay Robinson Racing.