Daytona International Speedway gets new seats installed

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Workers spent Tuesday morning installing the final seats at the Daytona International Speedway, but they weren't the only ones putting the new chairs together.

"It's a very unique experience. I'm very honored," said Ted Swartzlander. "As long as I've been coming over here, I'm very honored for them having me do this."

Swartzlander, the Speedway's longest ticket holder, and Jim France, of the International Speedway Corporation, had the honor of installing their own.

"It was fun," said France.

The newly renovated speedway is now filled with 101,500 seats. France called it the largest and most luxurious motorsports facility.

"I've been to many places around the world. Nothing that I know of compares to this. I don't know if there's another one in the world that spent 400 million dollars on the fan part of the venue," France said.

Speedway officials said they're just about done with renovations that include everything from escalators and elevators to signage. Race fans can expect the ultimate experience come Rolex 24.

"I'm very excited! I can't wait to come back over here and go to the race," said Swartzlander.


About the Author:

Loren Korn is a native Texan who joined the News 6 team as a reporter in May 2014. She was born and raised in Houston and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Journalism.

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