racetracks

[woz]

why do all racetracks seem to run clockwise? The only ones I can think of that run anticlockwise are the banked ovals.

I fully expect a long list of anticlockwise tracks to prove me wrong

Why not make tracks so that they can be run in ether direction for different races?............. or both directions in the same race

I guess it would only involve diferent runoffs and barriers/ tyre walls, the pit entry could become the exit and visa versa???

I fully expect a long list of tracks that allow racing in ether direction to prove me wrong

[adhawkins]

Can't answer why clockwise seems predominant. However, as you say, there are tracks that run anti-clockwise (Interlagos in Brazil is one example that springs to mind).

Also, I believe that Pembrey is certified to run in both directions (perhaps only for sprints?).

Andy

[Mark Stanton]

Yep Pembrey can be used anti-clockwise for sprints only  

Its not quite as simple as just reversing direction as many tracks have run offs and safety barriers situated specifically on corner exits, rumble strips have "steps" that are tapered in one direction + a lot of newer tracks have cambers in the track to suit direction every track has an MSA licence to suit their use  

Good idea though - Cadwell and Knockhill would be very "interesting" for sure      

[JeffC]

my pal did Croft in anticlockwise in a rally event, I cant remember my way going the right way    

[DENNISTHEMENACE]

Does this only apply to UK tracks?

I race radio control I.C. circuit cars. All Uk tracks are clockwise, ALL European (across channel) are anti clockwise  

[adhawkins]

I don't think it's a 'rule' as such, just a decision that's taken when the track is designed / built.

There's bound to be an anti-clockwise track in the UK somewhere. How about Rockingham?

Andy

[Dracoro]

Bedford is anticlockwise. In the US, Laguna Seca.

[KerryS]

Think clockwise is God's way round - prob not PC in this day and age

Kerry S

[Chris Elworthy]

Back in 95 took my sons to Mallory, watched a whole load of tin top racing clockwise, then those V8 Fibreglass (Mondeo Shaped) cars raced anti-clockwise.

[Mark Stanton]

Seen them as well Chris - they were using just the oval     and bouncing all over the place around the bottom of devils elbow when going out onto the Esses            

[S8ight]

............. or both directions in the same race

that would get me watching F1 again  

[peterg]

Brands Hatch originally ran anti-clockwise  

Main reason tracks (especially GP certified ones) can't run in the opposite direction to 'normal' is that they would have to build huge run-off areas on both the entry and exit to all corners and the spectators would be even further from the track than now!

[DutchWestfield]

A long while ago I used to work as a mechanic in the motorcycle GP's. I will never forget the time we were in Australia, on a track that ran anti clockwise (not eastern creek, but the other one, don't remember the name). Friday morning, first practice. A collegue took the bike, put it in front of the box, started it and spend 5 minutes to heat up the engine. It was only when he shut the engine off again when he noticed that all the other bikes were in the other direction and that a big crowd on the main stand was having a big laugh...  

[joff69]

I think that Stock cars and Speedway run anticlockwise.

[Lurksalot]

I think that Ities like it the other way round

Imola and Monza go anticlockwise I believe