History of the Daytona 500
Ever since 1959, drivers and fans have descended upon Daytona, Florida for “The Great American Race” – the Daytona 500. It’s been run continuously since then, and serves as the opening race for the NASCAR season every year since 1982. Daytona Beach Road Course is the reason racing is so big in that section of Florida. The Daytona 500 is a continuation of the racing tradition and history that surrounds the city of Daytona. Richard Petty won the most, with seven. Cale Yarborough, seen above, won four.