Darlington Raceway – Click on photo to see it larger

Bobby Hamilton, Jr. Visits The Lady in Black

Following last week’s race in Richmond, Bobby Hamilton, Jr. and the Team Rensi Motorsports/Smithfield #25 Ford Taurus move on to Darlington Raceway for the Diamond Hill Plywood 200.

Known as the track "Too Tough to Tame" and "The Lady in Black," it is still remembered as the original superspeedway and as one of the pillars of the NASCAR establishment. There is no other sporting facility in the world more steeped in history and tradition than Darlington Raceway, which has aged gracefully over the years but retained its feisty charm. Still, nobody loves the challenging track more than the drivers."You never forget your first love," said seven-time Cup champion Dale Earnhardt, "whether it's a high school sweetheart, a faithful old hunting dog, or a fickle racetrack in South Carolina with a contrary disposition. And, if you happen to be a racecar driver there's no victory so sweet, so memorable as whipping Darlington Raceway."

The track "Too Tough to Tame" continues to keep pace with the booming NASCAR world, adding lights for a night race in 2005 and expanded seating in 2006. But even more, it's standing as a monument to the drivers and loyal fans who sowed the seeds of stock car racing 50 years ago.

Be sure to find out how well Bobby and the #25 car on ESPN2 performed last night.