Imagine endless tailgates, delicious eats, good friends and, of course, fast cars
By Sash Schaffer
Pocono Raceway is the only track on the NASCAR circuit with three turns, creating its nickname, the “Tricky Triangle.” Each turn has a different degree of banking based on Trenton Speedway, Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Milwaukee Mile.
Within the infield are large rocks bearing the names and famous car numbers of nine past Pocono winners: Dale Earnhardt, Richard Petty, Rusty Wallace, Cale Yarborough, Bobby Allison, David Pearson, Darrell Waltrip, Mario Andretti and A.J. Foy.
Mario Batali wrote an entire NASCAR tailgating cookbook based on fans that were tailgating in the Pocono Raceway infield. He spent three days immersing himself in the true NASCAR tailgating scene gathering recipes.
Pocono is in the Magic Triangle – New York, Philadelphia and Pocono Raceway are all 90 miles away from each other.
The fastest speed recorded on the track was by Kyle Larson in August 2014 at 183.43 miles per hour. Larson did the 2.5 mile track in 49.06 seconds.
Pocono Raceway is one of the few remaining family owned tracks. Dr. Joseph (Doc) Mattioli, founder and owner of Pocono Raceway died in 2012. His wife Dr. Rose Mattioli survives him.
Pocono Raceway is one of the most environmentally conscious tracks in the world. The 3MW Pocono Solar Project has produced over 18 Million Kilowatt hours to date and covers over 25 acres of land.
During the summer months, Pocono Raceway employs approximately 50 sheep to help keep the grass cut within the confines of the solar farm.
Pocono Raceway has claimed the title of biggest bathroom facility in the world. The “Long John” has over 1,000 stalls in place to ensure no lines for any fan!
The track is home to two Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Races (June 11 and July 30), the Camping World Truck Series Race (July 29), the Xfinity Series Race (June 10), 2 ARCA Races (June 9 and July 28), and the Verizon INDYCAR Series Race (August 20).
