Kentucky Speedway announces new security

New Security Plan announced for Kentucky Speedway Competitors, Media and Fans.

SPARTA, KY. -- Kentucky Speedway has unveiled a new, enhanced security plan for race competitors, media, entertainers and fans that will be in effect for all future events held at the $152-million motorsports and entertainment venue.

The speedway has enforced a number of safety guidelines since opening in 2000, however, many measures have been increased for the venue's third race season.

Main checkpoints and guard posts have been established at the vehicular tunnel and main gate on the concourse level. All vehicles entering the vehicular tunnel will be subject to random mirror checks as well as interior and trunk checks.

Bags of any type also will be checked at every entrance for all events. Kentucky Speedway highly recommends that fans carry a clear plastic bag to speed the security process.

Permitted items include: binoculars, radios, scanners, single food or drink items. Kentucky Speedway does not permit coolers of any type. Fans will not be permitted to use golf carts. All carts being used by Kentucky Speedway employees, and vendors will be inspected when entering the facility.

Kentucky Speedway also announces it has retained Brantley Services as its security and parking service provider. Brantley Services will team with Kentucky Speedway security, Kentucky State Police, local police departments, the Kentucky Dept. of Transportation, and the Kentucky National Guard in executing the security plan at the facility. As an added measure, Kentucky Speedway will utilize two canine units on the property at all times.

"I am very pleased with the additional security measures that will be in place for our events. We were already way ahead of the game, as our previous policies restricted coolers and many other carry-in related items," said Mark F. Cassis, executive vice president and general manger at Kentucky Speedway. "Our enhanced plan now includes more stringent searching of vehicles in and around the complex. All in all, we feel very confident, as we always have, that everyone will have a safe, fun, and exciting entertainment experience when visiting the speedway."

Founded in 1930, Brantley Services has provided event management services for some of America's most well-known event and entertainment venues. Brantley Services is committed to providing well-trained, customer-service-oriented personnel to represent Kentucky Speedway. The company just completed a successful 2002 Kentucky Derby during which it implemented enhanced security precautions at Churchill Downs.

"Our goal is to ensure that Kentucky Speedway patrons receive all the enjoyment that the Kentucky Speedway has to offer and will return race after race," Brantley Services General Manager Steve Hillard said. "Kentucky Speedway will benefit from our years of experience in providing professional security and event management services for Churchill Downs (Breeders Cup and Kentucky Derby), PGA Championship, NCAA Tournament and many other nationally-recognized events."

-ks-