Martinsville Speedway
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Martinsville Speedway is a compact, paperclip-shaped NASCAR track in Ridgeway, just south of Martinsville, Virginia. Founded by H. Clay Earles in 1947, it combines a long racing history with the close-up feel of short-track racing. For race-day visits, check the speedway’s official fan guide for current schedules, tickets, parking, accessibility information and entry rules before setting out.[1][2]
What to expect
The track’s tight turns and short straights give it a distinctive layout. Martinsville Speedway lists its length as 0.526 miles and describes the shape as a “paperclip.” Race weekends bring more than track action: the official fan guide describes a Midway outside the gates with food, merchandise vendors and entertainment. What’s available can vary by event, so check the current event information before you go.[3][4]
A brief history
Earles founded the speedway in 1947, before NASCAR was established. The track joined NASCAR’s top division schedule in 1949; the speedway says it has hosted a Cup Series race every year since that division began. It was paved in 1955, while its basic configuration remained in place.[5]
The track is also known for its grandfather-clock trophies. The tradition began in 1964, when the speedway introduced the clock as a race-winner’s award. For a fuller timeline of local racing history, see Martinsville, Virginia.[6]
Planning a race-day visit
The speedway’s fan guide recommends arriving well before the scheduled start to allow time for parking, security, the Midway and finding your seat. The guide currently lists the track address as 340 Speedway Road, Ridgeway, VA 24148; confirm directions and event-specific arrival instructions before travel, as the official site may provide different addresses for particular purposes.[7]
Parking, tickets, camping and event schedules can vary. Consult the official fan guide and event listings for current details rather than relying on older advice or information for another race weekend.[8]
Accessibility and what to bring
The official guide lists accessible seating and an accessible parking area, as well as assistance carts during race events. Availability, locations and operating arrangements may depend on the event; contact the speedway or review its current accessibility guidance when planning your visit.[9]
Entry rules cover bags, coolers and prohibited items. The fan guide currently allows soft-sided coolers within specified size limits and lists items that cannot be brought inside. Check the guide shortly before your event, since policies may change.[10]
Explore nearby
Martinsville Speedway is a natural starting point for a visit to Martinsville, Virginia and the wider Henry County area. The regional tourism organization’s motorsports history overview offers additional context on racing’s place in the area.[11]
Related books: Browse related Virginia books on Amazon
References
- ↑ Track History, Martinsville Speedway. Retrieved 2026-10-24.
- ↑ Fan Guide, Martinsville Speedway. Retrieved 2026-10-24.
- ↑ Track History, Martinsville Speedway. Retrieved 2026-10-24.
- ↑ Fan Guide, Martinsville Speedway. Retrieved 2026-10-24.
- ↑ Track History, Martinsville Speedway. Retrieved 2026-10-24.
- ↑ Motorsports Heritage, Martinsville Tourism. Retrieved 2026-10-24.
- ↑ Fan Guide, Martinsville Speedway. Retrieved 2026-10-24.
- ↑ Fan Guide, Martinsville Speedway. Retrieved 2026-10-24.
- ↑ Fan Guide, Martinsville Speedway. Retrieved 2026-10-24.
- ↑ Fan Guide, Martinsville Speedway. Retrieved 2026-10-24.
- ↑ Motorsports Heritage, Martinsville Tourism. Retrieved 2026-10-24.