Few fans get to enjoy Atlanta NASCAR race in person - thanks to condos overlooking track

NASCAR is heading to the Atlanta Motor Speedway this weekend but with the coronavirus pandemic, fans won’t be in the grandstands.

Unless you or your friends have access to one of the 46 condominiums that overlook the track.

Channel 2′s Alison Mastrangelo caught up with one condo owner who will get to watch the race from the comfort of his home.

As you drive toward Atlanta Motor Speedway, you will see the Tara Place Condomiums along the race track.

“It’s the best kept secret in Atlanta," Bill Whately said.

The property houses 46 condos complete with floor to ceiling windows with AMS views, a bar kitchen area, living room and stadium seats looking out at the track.

“I can be sitting on my couch Friday nights. Watch Friday night drags and be watching Braves on TV at the same time. Pretty cool experience,” Whately said.

Whately has loved cards and racing his entire life. He has owned his condo for 12 years.

“My favorite spot is the air conditioning or heating and looking out the windows here,” he told Mastrangelo. “The windows shake when the cars go by. It’s just awesome."

On a typical race day, Whately could have up to 25 guests in his unit. But due to the COVID-19 pandemic, fans aren’t allowed to be in the stands for the Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500.

It means Whately has the hot ticket to witness a live sporting event.

“They’re only allowing five people per resident. They count me and my wife and three other people. And my phone has been ringing off the hook.”

On a regular NASCAR weekend, some of the residents would have access to the rooftop where they can see the entire track, including turn four and victory lane.

“Everyone who has a condo here feels very fortunate they can come and watch this race,” Whately said. “It’s going to be very different at AMS without fans yelling, cheering.”

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