The Evolution of Silverstone Race Track
The Silverstone Race Track in England is one of the most famous and iconic circuits on the Formula 1 calendar. It is where the first race took place in Formula 1 history. For the upcoming British Grand Prix race this weekend, drivers will find a very different course to the one they raced at last year. Major changes have taken place to the course and it is said that the changes will enhance the spectator experience. Silverstone is also the site of many track days that people can bring their own cars to. Over the years the circuit has become a motorsports icon. This year's race will undoubtedly bring some very interesting surprises and exciting racing.
Silverstone race course was actually a World War II airfield that was used during the war. It opened in 1943 and after the war ended became a racing track in 1948. That was the same year the first race was held, called the RAF Grand Prix, it saw the winner reach an average speed of about 70 miles per hour and win a grand prize of 500 pounds. 500 pounds was a lot of money in those days, but the more important factor was that the track had now officially become the scene for a yearly grand prix. Over the years the course was changed slightly, with the biggest early change being the removal of the runways that were used when it was still an airfield. It seems the course is continually changing with major changes done to the track again for this year's race.
This year the track was changed significantly, to the point that returning drivers will find a different course for them to navigate around. It was lengthened and a few turns were radically altered. The changes were done in order to make the track a more spectator friendly one so that the fans could enjoy every moment of the action. It was also changed to provide more of a challenge and thrilling drive for the racers who will be competing this weekend. With all these changes it looks all set to be one of the most interesting races on this year's F1 circuit.
The multi million pound alterations to the track see it being increased in length by 800 metres and significant changes being made between the Club corner and Brooklands. Silverstone has always been one of the fastest of all the Formula 1 circuits but the changes made this year will see lap times slowing by about 4 seconds. Due to the changes in the corners, making them tighter and more exciting to drive around, each car will now require more downforce to be able to tackle the corners correctly. This will provide for overtaking opportunities on the corners and some very exciting racing for the fans.
The evolution of the track has been very interesting over the years. It started out as an airfield so it had a very interesting design, rounded all the way around until two sharp indents came into it which were the runways. The track became rounder and more oval shaped over the years until interesting bends were later added. The current shape is reminiscent of its historical origins with a very sharp indent right in the middle of the entire course.
The British Grand Prix was about to go to Donington Park instead of Silverstone until a huge amount of money was spent to bring it back to its original home. Donington Park was not completed in time and Silverstone is now a modern and beautiful race track. Silverstone remains the home of British Grand Prix to the delight of fans.
With the changes to the track, this year's race is going to be a very exciting and entertaining one for the fans and the drivers. It could be that when the drivers return to the track in 2011, the track will be completely changed again. Well, it will only add to the drama and excitement of the British GP and we all await the race with bated breath.
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