Known as the "Most Competitive in the U.S.," Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course is a 2.4-mile/15-turn or 2.25-mile/13-turn permanent road course. Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course was opened by Les Griebling in the spring of 1962. The first event was a driver's training school. Johnny Rutherford won the first CART race held at Mid-Ohio on July 13, 1980, driving a Chaparral-Cosworth.

In October, 1981, James R. Trueman purchased the track. Some of the improvements he instituted were amphitheater seating, paddock garages, and the five-story Goodyear Tower housing media and two V.I.P. suites. Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course encompasses a total of 330 acres which includes the track, buildings and parking areas. Mid-Ohio is the home of The Mid-Ohio School which was established in 1993.

Situated in the beautiful Appalachian foothills of North Central Ohio, Mansfield and Richland County are home to a unique blend of recreational, historical, and cultural attractions. Midwestern hospitality is a way of life, and the community opens its arms to welcome visitors.

Here are a few examples of what the area has to offer:

· Richland Carrousel Park, Carrousel Magic! and the restaurants and shops in the historic Carrousel District

· Richland B & O Bike Trail (18.2 miles)

· Ohio State Reformatory (Site of filming for "The Shawshank Redemption" and parts of "Air Force One"). Open for tours on weekends.

· The Infield (Go-karts, batting cages, arcade and miniature golf)

For information on hotels, restaurants and area attractions, call the Mansfield and Richland County Convention and Visitors Bureau at 800-642-8282 or 419-525-1300, or visit their website at www.mansfieldtourism.org .