Daytona Beach has rich racing tradition

Daytona Beach is the center of the racing universe every February. "Speed Weeks" draw racers and thousands of fans to the historic Daytona International Speedway.

Daytona Beach became known as "The World's Most Famous Beach" for beach racing in the early 1900s.

Here's the story from the Daytona Beach Convention and Visitor's Bureau:

It all began as a friendly wager between automakers Ransom E. Olds and Alexander Winton, each determined to prove that he had the faster car. Sand flew as they sped along the shore, clocking in at an unprecedented 57 mph. They ignited sparks of interest from those of like minds and finances, and inadvertently began the sport of wealthy "gentlemen's racing."

Technology improved rapidly, and by 1920 this much faster - and more dangerous -- sport was dominated by professional race car drivers. Larger crowds, increasing speeds and beach construction, along with persistent incoming tides, led to the demise of beach racing in 1958.

Racing began at Daytona International Speedway in 1959, and continues today with more than eight major car and motorcycle events each year, including the internationally famous Daytona 500.

Race fans of all ages enjoy visits to the Daytona Beach area. The area's rich racing heritage spills over into attractions, lodging and restaurants.

Some places to visit:

-- Explore the evolution of this exciting sport at Daytona USA, an action-packed motor sports attraction.

-- Test your own racing abilities in an exact replica of a stock car or Viper at Speed Park, across the street from the speedway.

-- See stock cars from the past at Mark Martin's Klassix Auto Museum.

-- The highlight of any trip to Daytona Beach, of course, is catching a race live at the speedway.

For more information, contact the Daytona Beach Convention and Visitor's Bureau at 904-255-0415.

For online information on Speed Weeks, visit http://www.daytonachamber.com/speedweeks... or the speedway's official site at http://www.daytonaintlspeedway.com/.

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