Round 1 of the 2009 Redline Time Attack season is just a couple weeks away.  We know that many of our returning teams are seasoned veterans to Buttonwillow, but some teams may not be aware of all that Buttonwillow has to offer, and we’d especially like to welcome out new teams and let them know what to expect.

First off:  Buttonwillow Raceway is not in the town of Buttonwillow.   And most of what we all know as the town, isn’t acutally in the town.  Its mostly just a collection of hotels, eateries and gas stations/truck stops serving Interstate 5.  The racetrack is about 10 miles north of the “town” just west of the freeway at Lerdo Highway.

Lodging:  Don’t expect 5-star luxury accomodations…. in fact, don’t expect 2 star.  You could get it, but I wouldn’t expect it.   The official Redline Hotel is the Red Roof Inn (formerly the Willow Inn), and rooms are still available if you call the hotel directly at (661) 764-5121‎ and tell them you’re part of the Redline Time Attack.   Also in town are a Motel 6, Super 8 and someplace known as the Homeland Inn and Suites.

Food:  Only the finest of the fast food chains are available for your pleasure.   The standard fare of McDonalds, Carl’s Jr, Subway, Starbucks are there for your convenience.  If sitting down for a few minutes is more like it, there is a Denny’s for a hearty breakfast anytime, and two local establishments the Willow Ranch Inn (not to be confused with the former motel name) and the Taste of India.  In the evenings, there can be found a couple roach-coach types that roll into town and setup next to their semi-permanent covered dining areas.  There is also a place that used to be a Dairy Queen, or Foster’s Freeze or something, but its now independantly owned…. I guess its sorta just a greasy spoon that still serves up some ice cream and has a drive through. 

Gas Situation:   Since the track is really in the middle of nowhere, then you’re either gonna need to pay the inflated price for 91 at the track (which does accept credit cards, so thats a bonus!) or run back all the way to town.  Bring a fuel can if you’ve got one, or three, and fill up in the morning if thats your plan.  In town are several gas stations including a Shell, Chevron and Texaco.  There is also a TA Truck Stop, and on the west side of the freeway, a Mobil.

So thats the “town” that we know.  The good news is that if this isn’t your cup of tea, the city of Bakersfield isn’t all that far away… only 25 or so miles.  There are some decent restaurants in town there, as well as a pretty nice Holiday Inn.  Of course, if you have specific questions, post a comment here, and we’ll happily get our best team on it to find out for you!