So, you’re going to Talladega. Well, you’re in luck. The Talladega Superspeedway is a 2.66 mile tri-oval track. Races at Talladega are always exciting. NASCAR’s Nextel CupSeries races at the track twice a year: Spring and Fall. That gives NASCAR fans two times a year to pack up and head to the infield. Talladega’s infield is definitely the place to stay race weekend. It is also a great place to watch the races. Be prepared for a lot of fun and a little sleep. Here are a few other things to be prepared for and a few things you need to pack with you.
First of all, to stay on the infield you will have to reserve a spot that you will call home all weekend long. There are several types of spots to choose from. The infield is divided up into sections. There is a section for people bringing tents. There are not supposed to be any pull behinds, fifth wheels, or RVs in this area. This area only allows one vehicle per spot. So, that means all of the people and supplies have to be crammed into one vehicle.
There is a way to help with this matter. Take two vehicles to the track or however many you may need. When you get to the track, don’t go to the infield yet. Head around to gate V9, which is roughly in between the north tunnel and south tunnel. Near this gate is a parking area for overnight vehicles where you can park the extra vehicle or vehicles. From here you can load all of the additional items into the vehicle you are taking in. It’s that simple. Now you’ll only have a short way to go with everyone and everything cramped in.
Gate V9 is where the RVs have to enter the infield. The tunnels do not have a high enough clearance, so gate V9 actually goes across the track. Metal plates are placed across the track to prevent vehicles form damaging it. So, you don’t actually get to drive across the track. If you are bringing a tent with you, you would be best suited NOT using gate V9. It often gets backed up with all of the RVs!
The RVs also have a certain section on the infield. These spots are much larger to accommodate the larger vehicle (RV). There are several different RV areas. They are different sizes and have different rules regarding the number of vehicles allowed on the spot and whether or not the vehicles can go in and out. There are only certain RV areas where cars are allowed to go in and out. All of the other areas, including the tent area, do not allow vehicles to leave once they get inside the infield. The infield must be cleared by 11AM Monday morning.
Once you get to the infield the first thing you will want to do is set up. The infield has a shower house and restrooms. However, there are trucks that drive around that will rent a porta potty to you for the weekend. There is a minimal fee, but it is worth it if you are far from the restrooms. For RV campers, there is also a truck with water that drives around. Besides your tent or sleeping materials, you may want to consider a fire pit or items to make a campfire. Some evenings it can get a little cool. A camp fire is a great way to keep warm and its also a lot of fun.
What else should you bring? Well, you need enough food and beverages to last the length of your stay. Don’t forget your alcoholic ones too. Glass bottles are not allowed on the infield. This rule is loosely informed, so you can bring them in without getting lectured, as long as you don’t go crazy with them. You’ll probably need a grill to cook your food. You may also want to bring some type of canopy to put over at least part of your spot. This way, in the evenings, when the dew settles it will not get all over your stuff.
Also bring things to decorate your site with. Bring flags and other decorations with your favorite driver on them. Crown Royal has a contest and the site with the most unique way of decorating with the Crown Royal theme wins a prize.
Once you are all set up, take time to walk around and check out other camp sites. You will probably see all kinds of neat things. Some people bring satellite dishes, tvs, and video games. As you walk you will probably think of some things you’ll want to bring next time. Even if you forget a few things you are sure to have a lot of fun! Enjoy the races!!
