As the owner of Gainesville Raceway, what could the National Hot Rod Association possibly do to make the 50th annual Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals the best racing event in the history of the famed track? How about a complete resurfacing of the facility that originally opened eight miles north of Gainesville FL in 1969. Previously known for its 675-foot concrete launchpad, one of the longest on the NHRA circuit, the hallowed ground was last resurfaced in 2003. Racing at the track was suspended in November, so new construction efforts could begin on December 10.
With the NHRA Gatornationals originally scheduled for March to fit the timetable for many fans on spring break, the track has been home to the first 300-mph Top Fuel run since 1992. Once the existing track is removed, it will be paved as all-concrete surface to accommodate the 10,000-horsepower, nitro-burning Top Fuel and Funny Car machines. The new 60-foot wide track will be poured from the water box to past the finish line. Where the concrete ends, the track will be resurfaced with fresh asphalt for the extra-long runoff area at Gainesville Raceway.
Join E3 Spark Plugs Racing Fans for 50th Gatornationals
The Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals, March 14-17, is the traditional East Coast opener for the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series. To purchase general-admission or reserved seats, visit www.nhra.com/tickets or call 800-884-NHRA (6472). Kids 12 and under are free in general admission areas with a paid adult. All students can save 50% on general admission at the gate with a student ID. Military and first responders can save 20% on general admission and reserved tickets.
Gainesville Raceway is located on County Road 225, eight miles north of Gainesville Regional Airport. If traveling north on I-75, use Exit 382, Williston Road (CR 331), and turn left (east). Williston Road will become Waldo Road (State Route 24) after it crosses U.S. 441. Continue on Waldo Road to NE 53rd Avenue, turn left, then immediately right onto CR 225 and continue 3.5 miles to the track. From I-75 north or south, use Exit 390, 39th Avenue (SR 222), go east to Waldo Road (SR 24), turn left, go to NE 53rd Avenue, turn left, then immediately right onto CR 225 and continue 3.5 miles to the track.
