Gateway International Raceway
An announcement dated November 3, 2010, on the Gateway International Raceway website states: “Dover Motorsports, Inc. announces closing of Gateway International Raceway”
Gateway International Raceway is a NASCAR track located in Illinois of the USA. Amongst the biggest motorsports complexes in the United States Midwest, Gateway International is host to several NASCAR races, drag races and other exciting events each year. Dover Motorsports owns the track. If you are a big fan of NASCAR, be sure to pay a visit to Gateway International Raceway.
Gateway International Raceway had its beginnings back in 1967. Wayne Meinert decided to construct a 1/8 mile drag strip, which he named St. Louis Raceway Park. Meinert increased the strip to ¼ mile in 1971. He then renamed the track St. Louis International Speedway. Later, in 1985 a road course measuring 2.6 miles was added to the track. The name was changed to Gateway International Raceway in 1988. The impressive racing facility was referred to by spectators as “The Swamp”. Chris Pook of Long Beach Grand Prix purchased Gateway International in 1995. The following year he began renovations. A lovely new oval track was laid with a new drag racing strip. The newly revamped track was opened in 1997. Today, Gateway International Raceway is owned and managed by Dover Motorsports.
Gateway International Raceway has an oval track of 1.25 miles as well as a 1.6 mile road track and ¼ mile drag strip. As such the facility is able to host a number of different motorsport events. Through the year, Gateway hosts some 300 events attracting more than 500 000 excited spectators. Amongst these events are the NASCAR Busch Series, Craftsman Truck Series and Indy Racing League. A special activity area has been designed for children as well as an interesting junior dragster program.
Several additions have been made to improve the Gateway International Raceway experience. An additional 15 000 grandstand seats have been added. A Firestone pedestrian and vehicle tunnel was constructed below the track instead of the bridge that previously blocked the view. St. Louis’ light rail system has been extended to carry visitors nearer the raceway and a free shuttle service runs from the MetroLink stop to the raceway for added convenience. For a remarkable race day experience, make your way to Gateway International Raceway this season.