We attended the May 2005 NASCAR race in Talladega, Alabama.  Jane points to our approximate position in the upper deck.  These were actually pretty good seats.


Before the race, we toured Pit Road.  Once you're past the guards, a "tour" is more or less a "wander around as you like" situation.  We did get to see some of the cars close up, and before they were damaged.



Back in the hospitality area, more cars on display, including some vintage models from Nalley Chevrolet (still in business around Atlanta).  Right: our hosts, George and Jennifer, from Race Away Hospitality.


There's not much room inside the driver's compartment.


Opening ceremonies with the flag, the call to "start your engines," the pace laps, and then we're GREEN GREEN GREEN!




Here's Jeff Gordon (blue 24) edging out Tony Stewart (orange 20).  Jeff didn't have to pass too many people, he was in the lead most of the day.

Left: some fans tape their favorite car numbers and wait for a sunburn to make their own inexpensive tattoo.  Center and right: Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mark Martin, in a couple of cars that endured "minor" damages.


After leading most of the race, Jeff Gordon wins!  Jane was happy with the outcome.  In the right-hand picture, Jeff celebrates his win by spinning tires and skidding through the grass (a NASCAR tradition).