The Hollywood Casino 400: A Comprehensive Guide to the Epic NASCAR Race

The Hollywood Casino 400 is one of the most prestigious and thrilling races on the NASCAR Cup Series calendar. Held annually at Kansas Speedway in Kansas City, Kansas, this 400-mile race draws massive crowds and captivates racing enthusiasts worldwide.

History and Importance

The Hollywood Casino 400 was first held in 2001 as the Kansas Lottery 300. Over the years, it has evolved into a highly anticipated event, showcasing some of the sport's biggest stars and unforgettable moments. The race is sanctioned by the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) and is part of the Playoffs, adding to its significance.

The Track: Kansas Speedway

Kansas Speedway is a 1.5-mile oval track with high banks and long straightaways, providing an ideal setting for high-speed racing. The track was designed to challenge drivers and push their machines to the limit, often leading to dramatic finishes and intense battles for position.

Race Statistics

• Distance: 400 miles (267 laps)
• Laps: 267
• Track Length: 1.5 miles
• Banking: 15 degrees (in turns)

Race Format

The Hollywood Casino 400 follows the standard NASCAR Cup Series race format:

• Qualifying: Drivers compete for pole position and starting order based on their fastest lap times.
• Green Flag: The race begins when the green flag is waved, marking the start of the 267-lap event.
• Stage Cautions: There are two scheduled caution periods during the race, on Lap 80 and Lap 160.
• Stage Finishes: The race is divided into three stages, each ending with a caution period: Stage 1 (80 laps), Stage 2 (80 laps), and Stage 3 (107 laps).
• Green-White-Checkered Finish: If a caution occurs late in the race, a green-white-checkered finish is used, where the race is restarted with additional laps until a green flag lap can be completed.

Past Winners

The Hollywood Casino 400 has seen some of the biggest names in NASCAR history claim victory, including:

• Kyle Busch (2005, 2009, 2013, 2017, 2018, 2022)
• Brad Keselowski (2010, 2011, 2019)
• Kurt Busch (2007, 2012)
• Joey Logano (2014, 2016)
• Martin Truex Jr. (2015, 2020, 2021)

Tips and Tricks for Attending

• Arrive early: Traffic and parking can be heavy, so leave yourself ample time to get to the track.
• Bring sunscreen and hydration: The weather can be hot and sunny, so protect yourself from the elements.
• Find your seats early: If you have assigned seats, claim them as soon as possible to avoid missing any of the action.
• Explore the midway: The Hollywood Casino 400 offers a variety of entertainment and activities off the track, including food vendors, merchandise booths, and family-friendly attractions.
• Consider a pit pass: For a more immersive experience, purchase a pit pass to get up close and personal with the drivers and their teams.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Driving under the influence: Kansas Highway Patrol strictly enforces traffic laws on race weekend, so avoid driving while intoxicated.
• Purchasing unauthorized merchandise: Only buy official race merchandise from authorized vendors to ensure authenticity.
• Forgetting your ID: You will need a valid ID to enter the track and purchase alcohol.
• Ignoring weather conditions: The Kansas weather can be unpredictable, so monitor the forecast and dress accordingly.
• Leaving valuables unattended: Keep your belongings secure, as theft can occur in large crowds.

Table 1: Race Winners and Statistics

Table 2: Attendance Figures

Table 3: Lap Records

Call to Action

Mark your calendars and plan to experience the thrill of the Hollywood Casino 400 firsthand. Whether you're a die-hard NASCAR fan or simply looking for an unforgettable weekend, this race promises non-stop action, entertainment, and memories to last a lifetime.