Member-only story

The Historic Manzanita Speedway In Phoenix: Images Of America

Miguel de Cervantes

·7.2k Followers· Follow

Published in The Historic Manzanita Speedway In Phoenix (Images Of America)

5 min read · 3 weeks before

487 View Claps

28 Respond

Save

Listen

Manzanita Speedway was a one-mile dirt track located in Phoenix, Arizona, that operated from 1955 to 1971. The track hosted a variety of racing events, including NASCAR Grand National races, USAC stock car races, and midget car races. Manzanita Speedway was a popular destination for racing fans and drivers alike, and it played a significant role in the development of stock car racing in the Southwest.

The Historic Manzanita Speedway in Phoenix (Images of America)

by Larry Upton

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	90509 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	128 pages

This book presents a collection of over 200 vintage photographs that capture the excitement of racing at Manzanita Speedway. The photographs show the track in its heyday, with packed grandstands and thrilling races. The book also includes photographs of some of the most famous drivers who raced at Manzanita Speedway, including Fireball Roberts, Junior Johnson, and Buddy Baker.

The Historic Manzanita Speedway In Phoenix: Images Of America is a must-have for any fan of racing history. The book is a great way to relive the excitement of racing at Manzanita Speedway and to learn more about the track's role in the development of stock car racing in the Southwest.

Manzanita Speedway: The Early Years

Manzanita Speedway was built in 1955 by a group of local businessmen. The track was located on a piece of land that was owned by the Arizona State Fairgrounds. The track was originally a half-mile dirt oval, but it was later expanded to a one-mile oval in 1957.

The first race at Manzanita Speedway was held on March 20, 1955. The race was won by Fireball Roberts, who was one of the most popular stock car drivers of the era. Roberts went on to win several more races at Manzanita Speedway, and he became one of the track's most successful drivers.

In 1956, Manzanita Speedway became a stop on the NASCAR Grand National circuit. The first NASCAR race at the track was won by Buck Baker. Baker went on to win several more races at Manzanita Speedway, and he became one of the track's most popular drivers.

Manzanita Speedway: The Golden Years

The 1960s were the golden years for Manzanita Speedway. The track hosted a variety of major racing events, including NASCAR Grand National races, USAC stock car races, and midget car races. The track was also a popular destination for drivers who were trying to break into the big time. Some of the most famous drivers who raced at Manzanita Speedway during this era include Junior Johnson, Buddy Baker, and Cale Yarborough.

The 1960s were also a time of great innovation for Manzanita Speedway. The track was one of the first tracks in the country to install lights for night racing. The track also installed a new grandstand that could accommodate over 10,000 fans.

Manzanita Speedway: The Decline

The 1970s were a time of decline for Manzanita Speedway. The track began to lose money as attendance dwindled. The track also faced competition from newer tracks that were being built in the Phoenix area. In 1971, the track closed its doors for good.

Manzanita Speedway was a major part of the Phoenix racing scene for over 20 years. The track hosted some of the biggest races in the country and helped to launch the careers of some of the most famous drivers in NASCAR history. The Historic Manzanita Speedway In Phoenix: Images Of America is a must-have for any fan of racing history.

The Historic Manzanita Speedway in Phoenix (Images of America)

by Larry Upton

4.3 out of 5