BAKERSFIELD, CA -- As the final phase of a $1,000,000 capital improvement plan, Mesa Marin Raceway has broken ground on its new Turn 1 grandstand. The 5000 seat structure is scheduled for completion prior to the $500,000 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series event on April 10. Mesa Marin's total seating capacity will now exceed 11,000.

The new grandstand is the final project of the capital improvement plan that began one year ago at Mesa Marin. Other projects which have been completed or are currently under construction include; a land purchase and expansion of spectator parking, the expansion and repaving of the entire infield pit area, improvements to an existing building to accommodate a race driving school, motorhome parking area along the back straight-away, the completion of the Winston Tower Press Box Suite, and a new go-kart track for spectator entertainment.

"We have always put money back into the facility, but this last year we got a little carried away." stated Mesa Marin owner Marion Collins.

"We have been planning the parking expansion and the new grandstands due to the success of the NASCAR Craftsman Truck event."

"The series continues to grow, and crowds have far exceeded our current seating capacity." Collins added.

"In our business you can't sit on your successes, you have to keep moving forward and make things bigger and better for your spectators, sponsors and competitors."

"My father Marion doesn't play golf, he relaxes by working on improvements and additions to the racetrack." stated Mesa Marin Raceway Senior Vice-President, Larry Collins.

Mesa Marin Raceway's opening event of the year is scheduled for Saturday, March 20, featuring the NASCAR Winston Racing Series.

Source: Mesa Marin Raceway
Posted: 2/9/99