Columbia Speedway is indeed an historical racing site that holds many fond memories for so many racing legends, fans and media professionals who have had the privilege of being in attendance at this track for some phenomenal races. This oval track has been one of the premier racing venues for the NASCAR Grand National Series from 1951 through 1971. The racing surface primarily consisted of dirt and it was graced by the presence of racing phenoms such as Buck Baker, Tim Flock, Ned Jarrett, Junior Johnson, Cotton Owens, David Pearson, Lee Petty, Richard Petty.I had the privilege and honor to find out about this piece of history by being introduced to www.racersreunion.com by my Facebook friend and industry professional Ms. Clance McClannahan. Upon registering and becoming a member of this innovative and informative site created by Mr. Jeff Gilder, I am becoming more educated on the racing venues that paved the way for todays gigantic racing venues which have become very well-known throughout the years.The Columbia Speedway reminds me of the Colosseum located in Rome, Italy historic, breathtaking and beautiful ruins.It was amazing to me to be able to visualize what the track looked like in the beginning years when I visited it this past weekend. Standing where the grandstands once stood helped me to imagine watching the excitement of the races that were held at that site. The track was being utilized by some cyclists; however, it was cool being able to envision the speed and agility of the race cars that frequented that track over 38 years ago. AWESOME!There is a restoration/cleanup project currently underway in order to get this track ready for The Love Chevrolet Columbia Speedway Spring Festival and Racers Reunion Event. This event will be held on April 25 26, 2009 at the speedway commencing at 6 p.m. on both days. You can access more information about this event utilizing the following link:
http://racersreunion.ning.com/events/love-chevrolet-columbia.History is vitally important for the understanding of the evolution and advancement of any entity; therefore, I feel that Racers Reunion has definitely created a well executed forum as well as event schedule that will allow race fanatics the opportunity to learn more about the grassroots aspect of our phenomenal racing industry. You will get a dose of the famous, infamous and unsung heroes that have paved the way for most of todays racing athletics and industry professionals.Special thanks to Robbie & Donna Solesbee along with Tim Leeming for welcoming me to the track site and I look forward to working with you all next weekend.
Until next timeGear Up & Strap In For a Thrillin Ride
Great article! Thank you for posting it here.Jeff
Thank you Jeff...I am happy that you enjoyed reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it! I am so excited abou the upcoming event and I am glad that I will be able to volunteer for the clean up efforts. Take Care!
Hey Hiram, if you're ever up around Chester way, take the highway 9 exit and you'll be at I-77 Speedway and you can watch some race cars from the original grandstands from Columbia Speedway. It's a fun little track and we'd love to have you come over. Be sure to look me up if you do, I'm gonna give announcing a shot there this year. It's about the only thing I haven't done in the fifty years or so I've been hanging around race tracks. I'm just a little nervous about it thinking that there may have been a good reason I haven't. LOL
Just let me know when you're coming up and I'll make the arrangements.