Monster Monument Dedicated At Dover

By Joe Jennings
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Updated: May 31, 2008

DOVER, Del. ? May 31 ? Dover International Speedway is in the midst of a multi-year capital improvement project dubbed the ?Monster Makeover.? The construction is well underway and brings with it several fan friendly additions. And this helps the famed track celebrate its 40th anniversary of action.

New additions include the Monster Monument, an enormous 46 ft. fiberglass structure featuring the track?s signature ?Miles the Monster? character bursting out of the new concrete walkway behind the front-stretch grandstands, carrying a life-size stock car in his right hand. The Monster character is nearly five stories tall and has glowing red eyes with a menacing grin.

The 20 ton Monster resides on a 60 ft. base that pays tribute to all Dover race winners. Bobby Allison and Richard Petty, each with seven victories at Dover, were the first drivers to be honored. Allison?s honors were bestowed this weekend and Petty will be remembered in September.

?This is fabulous, and it is really, really okay,? Allison said. ?That Monster has a little bit of wickedness in his heart and a smile on his face.?

Denis McGlynn, president and CEO of Dover Motorsports, toasted Allison as follows, ?I am particularly happy that Bobby (Allison) is the first driver to be honored. Bobby, you were the only driver in the early days that would help us promote this sport when we struggling. You helped us make the track what it is today.?

In a nearby area, Bill Ciachone had a four-day sand sculpture project underway. The sand carving shows Allison?s 1970 winged Dodge Charger. Also, an artist was working diligently on a mural that includes likenesses of the track?s star performers.

Other additions include a new FanZone outside Turn 4 and a large Victory Plaza gracing the entrance to the Speedway. The plaza leads fans to the Monster Monument and the FanZone.

Also, a 3,800 sq. ft. emergency services building opened in time for the weekend?s high speed activities. And a commemorative logo was released to highlight the current season and the ?40 Fast Years? at the Monster Mile.