About Lime Rock Park
Lime Rock Park sits in Lakeville, Connecticut, nestled in the beautiful Berkshire Mountains. The track started operations in 1957, making it the third oldest operating road racing venue in the United States, following Road America and Willow Springs International Motorsports Park. Jim Vaill created the track on his family's land after racing enthusiasts spotted potential in the area. He partnered with racing driver and road safety pioneer John Fitch to design the circuit layout. The designers used Cornell University's Aeronautical Labs to plan the track, marking the first time scientific and highway-safety principles determined a North American racing circuit's design.
Circuit Features and Layout
The track stretches 1.5 miles through natural terrain in the Berkshire Mountains. The circuit features seven main turns and runs on asphalt, creating a challenging course for drivers. Lime Rock Park stands out because it has no standard grandstands or bleachers. Instead, fans watch races from grassy hills under shade trees. This setup gives visitors clear views of the race action from multiple angles and creates a family-friendly atmosphere. The Appalachian Trail passes near the circuit, visible from the track about half a mile to the east.
Racing Heritage and Notable Events
Many famous drivers have raced at Lime Rock Park, building its reputation as a premier racing venue. Paul Newman, Mario Andretti, Stirling Moss, Dan Gurney, and Sam Posey all competed here. The track hosts major racing events like the Trans-Am Series and sports car championships. In 1959, Rodger Ward achieved a remarkable victory here, winning a Formula Libre race in a midget car against larger sports cars. This upset victory remains one of the track's most memorable moments. The circuit features sections named after Sam Posey and Paul Newman, honoring their contributions to the track's history.
Modern Development and Improvements
Skip Barber owned the track from 1984 to 2021, bringing his famous racing school to the facility. The circuit received significant updates in 2008, including new pavement and additional corner options. These improvements added flexibility for different racing series while maintaining the track's classic character. Lime Rock Group LLC acquired the track in 2021, starting a new chapter in its history. The track earned recognition on the National Register of Historic Places in 2009, confirming its significance in American racing history.
Track Operations and Community Relations
Lime Rock Park operates under unique conditions. A 1959 court decision prevents Sunday racing, following concerns from local residents and the Trinity Episcopal Church. The track adjusted its schedule and runs events on other days of the week. This restriction hasn't stopped major racing series from choosing Lime Rock for important events. The track maintains a busy calendar with vintage car races, sports car competitions, and driving schools. The relationship with the local community has improved over time, with the church now participating in race weekend activities.
Recent Developments and Future Plans
The track continues to attract major racing events and series. NASCAR announced plans to bring the Craftsman Truck Series to Lime Rock Park. The circuit maintains its reputation for close racing and excellent spectator views. Track management focuses on preserving the natural beauty of the surroundings while providing modern racing facilities. The combination of historic significance and current improvements positions Lime Rock Park for continued success in American motorsports.
