There was a plan. The short of it – The time frame for being proper and requesting “credentials” to attend the Historic Sportscar Racing (HSR) event at Virginia International Raceway had grown very short. It was, for the purpose, at a point of seeming unprofessional to send a request so close to the event.
On the flipside, South Boston was on the edge with their track championships on tap. That was a focal point from many angles and in the immediate vicinity. A plan was set to focus on South Boston and check out the action at VIR to fill the time.
For that matter, it was all good to experience VIR as a racing and auto enthusiast… A fan… A ticket holding racing fan. The basis for a “work” related visit to report on the event with “behind the scenes and fences” access was alleviated. In short, the credentials grant deeper access to the facility but also carry the responsibility of content as a result of that access. There is also personal responsibility of safety and event continuity associated with those credentials.
As a ticket holding fan, there is none of that “responsibility”. Yes, there are some restrictions for where a “fan” can go as opposed to the working, “credentialed” reporter or photographer. Those restrictions, at a place like VIR, do not really hinder the opportunity to get some really good photos or independent content.
Yes, the fencing is there but it is (mostly) low enough to shoot over. Yes, there are often other fans to contend with in a good spot but a little left or right and a position will come up. Yes, those pesky “credentialed professionals” can be in your shot sometimes… They, too, will move about so there is a clear view. Yes, there are limitations and challenges as a fan photographer but the reward is simply enjoying the view and the racing without having to process any of it for a deadline.
For this event, the HSR (Historic Sportscar Racing) show was a perfect “fan” opportunity for catching a wide variety on the track. Vintage, Protoype, NASCAR, Sports Car… There was a good sampling to showcase. It was also a good lead for the returning SVRA SpeedTour. The Sportscar Vintage Racing Association event has morphed from what was previously the “Gold Cup” vintage weekend with a car show surrounded by racing from several classes of classics, performance and modern cars on the track.
Fans and tickets are a life for a track. VIR has offered fans a growing level of experience with a good mix of motorsport and a unique history that is woven into the fabric of that experience. For us, taking on the weekend with tickets over credentials gave a refresh on the roots of why racing becomes a passion for so many.
So here are some takeaway tips for attending VIR with a camera in search of some fun images:
1: Zoom lens. For track shots, a 70-200mm (even larger) is necessary. For paddock shots you’ll need a wider angle but for track side, use the zoom.
2: Tickets – Buy online beforehand. Some events may have discounts for early purchases.
3: Plan – The map shows areas in yellow which offer good vantage points to get photos without being “inside”. All are accessible from general admission view areas. Scout and find areas that give you a good view.
4: Food – Some bigger events have food trucks and more variety. The on site “Pagoda” dining hut located in the north paddock is fine if there is no other option. (A bologna sandwich in a cooler is considered another option) The Pagoda is the weak link at VIR. Plan ahead, bring your own.
5: Parking and walking. Parking is general access but central to most of the track. Plan on walking unless you rent a golf cart (on site, not as costly as some) or bring your own (motor transport requires a facility access fee). Scooters, motorcycles, karts require a fee to use in the facility.
6: Be patient and respectful – There can be a lot of people around. Many are enjoying the photo aspect as well. Allow people time and space and be mindful of your space and possible block of other fans and their viewing.
7: Not highlighted is the “Oak Tree” turn. You can’t shoot at the fence here so you need to be up in the bleachers to view over the fence. It can be done, but be careful – It’s a long way down.
Virginia International Raceway is a jewel for having photo fun with good views and angles with only a general admission ticket. The automotive variety offered from the public event schedule at VIR is unmatched and Virginia local. Check it out!
Here is a gallery from the weekend of ticket holding, “over the fence” viewing with HRS at VIR.
