It’s a big weekend at the Phoenix Raceway – it’s the weekend of the Fanshield 500!! How many of you are big Nascar fans? I know this is something I really enjoy watching with my son! I mean who doesn’t like the sound of roaring engines and cars flying past you? Here are some fun interesting facts for todays #FridayFun on the Phoenix Raceway:

• Construction was completed in January 1964. It was to be known as the “Indianapolis of the West” because it was the only one of its kind and was the only road racing course between Mississippi and California.
• In February 1977, The first “Copper World Classic” is held, featuring two road course races and two oval races. A total purse of $30,000 was offered for the entire event.
• On September 15, 1985 – Emmett “Buddy” Jobe purchases Phoenix Raceway from Dennis Wood. At the time, the track featured less than 10,000 reserved seats.
• In April of 1987, Lightning struck the track’s main grandstand, burning the majority of the structure to the ground. It was at that time reconstruction began.
• In October 1988, construction of a three-story suite building was completed just outside Turn 1. The seating capacity was increased to 30,000.
• On November 6, 1999 – The first NASCAR Busch Series race was held, with former Copper World Classic winner Jeff Gordon winning in a car owned by he and his wife, Brooke.

The truth is – there is just SO MUCH history in this track and this list goes on and on with really cool stuff! I hope you all get to partake in a little of the Nascar fun this weekend – I know I will be! Enjoy your weekend!