Martinsville Speedway

Martinsville Speedway Facts
First NASCAR race: 1949
Distance: 0.526 miles
Maximum banking: 12 degrees
Front and backstretch: 800 feet
Grandstand seating: 65,000

Martinsville Speedway, known as "The Paperclip" for its elongated shape, is the oldest track still hosting NASCAR races. In operation since 1949, it's also the shortest and poses a challenge to brakes as the cars must slow dramatically to negotiate its tight, low-banked turns.

Martinsville's long history has seen it host such famous races as the Virginia 500 (1959-1981 and 2001-2003), the Old Dominion 500 (1960-1982 and 2001-2002), the Goody's 500 (1983-1995), and, most recently, the Subway 500 and a revived Virginia 500.

Martinsville Speedway Visitor Information

Martinsville Speedway contact information: Martinsville Speedway, 340 Speedway Rd., Martinsville, VA (24112). Phone toll-free 877/722-3849.

Martinsville Speedway diagram: Download a PDF of the Martinsville Speedway layout.

Martinsville Speedway security: One soft-sided bag or cooler up to 6 x 6 x 12 inches is permitted. In addition, one clear plastic bag (no larger than 18 x 18 x 4 inches and not containing ice) may be brought in. Wear binoculars, headsets, scanners, and cameras around the neck or on a belt (not in a bag). Umbrellas, strollers, lawn chairs, thermoses, insulated cups, and pets are prohibited.

nascar martinsville speedway
Martinsville Speedway in Martinsville, Va., is
known as "The Paperclip."

Martinsville Speedway parking: All 200 acres of free public parking lies outside the track; allow two to three hours to leave once the race is over.

Martinsville Speedway first aid: There are two first-aid stations: one at the exit near Turn 2 and one under the Blue Ridge Tower about midway down. For more serious help, the closest hospital is Martinsville Memorial Hospital (320 Hospital Dr., phone 276/666-7200).

Martinsville Speedway concessions: There are many concession stands located throughout the track. Souvenir vendors are located next to the track.

For more information on all things NASCAR, see: