Myrtle Beach Speedway: A NASCAR Track Lost to Time

The Story of Myrtle Beach Speedway

For more than six decades, Myrtle Beach Speedway was a pillar of short-track racing in the Southeast. Built in 1958, this 0.538-mile asphalt oval became a breeding ground for NASCAR talent and a beloved venue for stock car enthusiasts. From NASCAR’s Busch Series (now Xfinity Series) to the Whelen All-American Series and Whelen Modified Tour, the speedway hosted some of the sport’s biggest names while maintaining its grassroots racing charm. However, in 2020, the roar of race cars came to a halt when the track was permanently closed and sold for redevelopment, marking the end of an era.

A Legacy Built on NASCAR Roots

Myrtle Beach Speedway was a staple of NASCAR’s Busch Series, holding events from 1988 to 2000. Over the years, it welcomed some of the greatest drivers, many of whom used the track as a stepping stone to NASCAR’s top divisions. Racing legends like Dale Earnhardt Sr., Jeff Gordon, and Dale Earnhardt Jr. all competed at the track during their early careers.

One of the most prestigious races at Myrtle Beach was the Myrtle Beach 400, a marquee Late Model Stock Car event that attracted top talent from across the country. Known for its tight corners and abrasive surface, the track demanded patience and skill, often leading to thrilling finishes. The event remained one of the most respected short-track races in the region until the track’s closure.

Aside from NASCAR-sanctioned events, the speedway also served as a home for local racing divisions, including Late Models, Modifieds, and Street Stocks. It was a favorite among short-track racers, who viewed the venue as one of the toughest yet most rewarding ovals in the sport.

The Final Lap: Closure and Redevelopment

Despite its storied history, Myrtle Beach Speedway shut down in 2020 after being sold to developers. Its final race took place on August 15, 2020, bringing together a passionate crowd for one last night of racing. The property was later cleared to make way for a commercial and residential development project, ending the speedway’s 62-year run.

The closure was a significant loss to the racing community, particularly for grassroots racers and fans who had long considered Myrtle Beach Speedway a home. Its absence left a void in the regional racing scene, eliminating one of the last remaining historic short tracks in the Carolinas.

Florence Motor Speedway: A New Home for Racing

With Myrtle Beach Speedway gone, Florence Motor Speedway stepped up to carry on the tradition of South Carolina short-track racing. Located in Timmonsville, SC, Florence became the new host of the Myrtle Beach 400, keeping the event alive for Late Model competitors.

Florence Motor Speedway, a 4/10-mile oval, has since grown in prominence, attracting many of the drivers and teams that once raced at Myrtle Beach. Though it lacks the same history, it has embraced its new role as a premier destination for grassroots racing in the Carolinas.

A Legacy That Lives On

While Myrtle Beach Speedway no longer stands, its impact on NASCAR and short-track racing remains undeniable. It was a proving ground for some of the sport’s greatest drivers, a hub for local racers, and a fan-favorite destination for decades. Though the track is gone, its memories, moments, and influence continue to live on in the hearts of those who once raced or watched from its grandstands.