Racing season kicks off this weekend, January 29–30, with the 60th running of the Rolex 24 at Daytona International Speedway. If you’ve ever been to a race at Daytona, you know it’s an awesome experience. But this isn’t some made-for-TV race that’ll have you home in time for the evening news. The IMSA Rolex 24 at Daytona is a 24-hour event that tests the limits of mechanical and human endurance. And for those who aren’t prepared, it can also test the limits of even the most ardent spectator. If you’re headed to Daytona this weekend for the start of racing season, here’s what to bring.
The race begins this Saturday at 1:40 p.m. ET. And yes, it really does last a full 24 hours, day and night, rain or shine. Florida weather can be hard to predict this time of year; current forecasts call for sunny skies this weekend—but also for chilly daytime temps in the 50s and cold nights in the 30s. So in addition to all the essentials below, a Carhartt heavyweight hoodie might not be a bad idea!
As with any large event, there is a long list of items you can and cannot take into Daytona International Speedway. Luckily, this venue is particularly fan-friendly in regard to essentials like food and comfort items. To help you out, we’ve put together this list based on the speedway’s dos and don’ts.
If you can’t make it to Daytona for the 60th annual 24 Hours race, here’s how to watch at home.
Top-Rated Products for Tailgating a Football Game
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
1
Sports Binoculars
From a luxury box, the infield midway, or up in the stands, Daytona International Speedway is a large place. And it’s way bigger in person, nearly a mile from one end to the other. So the first thing you’ll need is a quality pair of binocs to track the action on the backstretch, where there’s no seating. These waterproof Bushnells are made just for sport, with “permafocus” technology that keeps distant, moving items like race cars in relative focus, eliminating constant adjustments.
BUY AT WALMART
2
Portable Stadium Seat
Ever been to Daytona? General-admission fan seating lines the iconic home stretch—and it consists of long, flat, hard metal benches. They’ll test the endurance of your butt pretty fast, and they can get very hot in the sun or cold in lower temps. Metal-framed seats are not allowed, so this rollable soft seat from Coleman is your best bet. It unfolds, acts as a bench cushion for two, and has a mesh seatback pocket.
BUY AT WALMART
3
Backpack Cooler
According to the official Fan Guide to the Rolex 24, each entrant is allowed one 18-by-18-by-14-inch backpack (or a fanny or clutch pack—not both). So maximize your belongings with a backpack that doubles as an insulated cooler. This Tourit can hold up to 30 cans, so it’s plenty big enough for hours’ worth of refreshments. It features two side mesh pockets, zippered pockets on top and in the front, and a bottle opener on the strap.
BUY AT WALMART
4
Soft-Sided Lunch Cooler
The rules of what you can and can’t bring into the speedway are clear: Each attendee can bring a backpack and a 14-by-14-by-14-inch soft-sided bag or cooler. If you choose to stuff a backpack with clothes, blankets, and such, opt for this Coleman soft lunch cooler to carry your food and drink. Collapsible when empty, it holds 18 cans and is seam sealed against leaks.
BUY ON eBAY
5
Checkered-Flag Blanket
We were going to recommend a cozy blanket even before we checked the weather forecast, because folks have said the best action at the Rolex 24—and the best seats in general admission—can be found long after the sun goes down. This checkered-flag fleece blanket is ideal for keeping your legs and backside warm when temperatures dip and those metal benches get icy cold. And remember: With nighttime Daytona temps in the 30s this weekend, you might want to consider a lined fleece hoodie as well.
BUY AT WALMART
6
Rain Poncho
There’s no rain in the forecast right now, but better safe than sorry! Pack this lightweight polyester rain poncho just in case—it makes a great windbreaker, too. It’s a step above the typical cheapo ponchos you can buy, with a large front pocket and two side pockets for stashing your phone and valuables.
7
Stainless Steel Mug Tumbler
The rules limit cup capacity to 64 ounces, so push the envelope with this large 50-ounce stainless steel tumbler. It’s insulated, BPA-free, dishwasher safe, and completely recyclable. It’ll keep your drink cold all day (and night) long, and the three-in-one lid lets you sip, gulp, or use the straw.
BUY AT WALMART
This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
#Headed #Rolex #Daytona #Heres #Youll
Source link
Related
