Road Atlanta, a renowned motorsport race track located in Braselton, Georgia, has a rich history marked by significant developments and ownership changes. From its inception in 1969 to its current status as a premier racing venue, Road Atlanta has undergone numerous transformations that have shaped its identity and reputation in the motorsport world.
The Beginnings
In 1969, three businessmen, David Sloyer, Earl Walker, and Arthur Montgomery, purchased 750 acres of
land in Hall County, Georgia, with the vision of creating a motorsport race track. The construction of the track began that year, and despite the challenges, the project progressed swiftly. The first major breakthrough came when the Can-Am Championship announced that the new facility would replace the flood-damaged Bridgehampton Circuit in September 1970. This announcement accelerated the construction efforts, and the track was completed in time for its opening on September 13, 1970. The inaugural race was won by British driver Tony Dean in a Porsche 908/02.
Ownership Changes and Renovations
The track's ownership changed hands several times after its initial opening. In 1978, Road Atlanta was sold, and over the years, it faced safety concerns due to the increasing speeds of racing vehicles. Despite attempts to address these issues, such as the installation of a chicane at Turn 8, the track continued to face challenges. In 1993, under the ownership of the Whittington brothers, the facility went bankrupt. A partnership of businessmen, including Frank Drendel, Jim Kanely, Eddie Edwards, and Bill Waddell, purchased the track and initiated a series of improvements, including building renovations and track resurfacing.
Modern Developments
In 1996, Don Panoz acquired Road Atlanta and embarked on a comprehensive renovation project. He enlisted Bob Barnard, known for designing the Grand Prix track in Adelaide, to redesign the facility. The renovations included the construction of a new chicane, concrete barriers, and expanded runoff areas. A new pit and paddock area were also developed, marking the second phase of the $6 million renovation. In 1998, the first Petit Le Mans was held, establishing itself as a key event in the track's annual calendar. Further improvements continued, including a new chicane for motorcycle races in 2003 and a resurfacing in 2007. In 2012, the track was sold to NASCAR Holdings, and in 2018, it was renamed Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta.
