NASCAR Revises Garage Access Policy: Kids Welcome

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Feb. 14, 2011) — Speedweeks at Daytona International Speedway not only opens up the 2011 NASCAR racing season, it also opens the garage gates to some very important fans.
A revision in NASCAR’s garage access policy allows an adult with approved access, either via annual credential (hard card) or a single event license (SEL), to bring his or her children in the NASCAR Sprint Cup, NASCAR Nationwide and NASCAR Camping World Truck Series garages on race days.

The policy is in effect only during the “cold” pre-race period. Each child will be issued a special credential. There is no minimum age requirement.

Nick Laham/Getty Images

”NASCAR offers the best behind-the-scenes access in all of sports and this gives young people the opportunity to experience this excitement up close and personal,” said Steve O’Donnell, NASCAR senior vice president of track operations. “The thrill of being in the NASCAR garage on race day cannot be duplicated and we’re looking forward to having our young fans participate in this race-day experience.”

Some “Need to Know” parameters for this new policy:

• Parents must complete a minor’s release form prior to receiving a minor’s credential.
• Releases and credentials will be available at the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series registration hauler or at the garage location.
• NASCAR Nationwide and NASCAR Camping World Truck Series children credentials will be available at those series’ at-track registration locations.

Also updated for 2011: The dress code for all NASCAR pit and garage areas. Attire must remain appropriate for both a major sporting event and a family environment, but has been relaxed to include shorts, open-toed shoes, sleeveless blouses and skirts/dresses.