Track Profile: Salem Speedway

There are no ARCA Menards Series traditions quite like its visits to Salem Speedway.

With the COVID-19 pandemic having canceled the series’ trip to the historic venue in 2020, the tradition returns to the schedule in 2021.

This year’s Fall Classic at the 0.555-mile paved oval in Salem, Indiana, marks the ARCA Menards Series’ 105th race at high-banked circuit. The series has visited Salem more than any other track in its almost 70-year history.

And with good reason; with 33-degree banking in the corners, Salem Speedway was built in 1947 with all out speed in mind. The track has delivered unforgettable moments in the ARCA Menards Series for decades.

Below is everything to know about Salem Speedway, the most frequently visited track in ARCA Menards Series history.

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Track Profile: Salem Speedway

Located in the scenic hills of southern Indiana, about 40 miles Northwest of Louisville and 100 miles South of Indianapolis, Salem Speedway for more than 70 years has been recognized as one of the most unique and renowned tracks in America.

A lot of that has to do with its intimidating configuration.

Salem’s 33-degree banked corners were designed with nothing but speed in mind. And they serve that purpose. Sprint cars, for example, are known to reach speeds of almost 140 mph on the straights as a result of the momentum the corners preserve.

Salem Speedway is loaded with history, and many auto racing giants have competed on the track with success. Names like Ruttman, Carter, Sweikert, O’Connor, Jones, Foyt, Unser, Andretti, Vogler, Allison, Parsons and Waltrip, to name a few, grace the list of Salem winners.

Other notable drivers like Jeff Gordon, Mark Martin, Tony Stewart, Jimmie Johnson, Ryan Newman, Kyle Busch, Kasey Kahne, Ken Schrader and Joey Logano have tested their skills on the Salem oval in recent years, as well.

The ARCA Menards Series first visited Salem in 1955, when Jack Harrison emerged as the winner. Harrison also won two of the four races the series contested at Salem the following season.

A full 66 years after that first race and 104 events later, the ARCA Menards Series’ Salem tradition continues.

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ARCA Menards Series races at Salem Speedway