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History of the Circuit
Zolder-Terlamen
The name 'Terlamen' is derived from "Terlaemen", the name of
the local domain that is already quoted in 1293 and is at the heart of where
the circuit has been constructed. The community of Heusden-Zolder is the
owner of the circuit and of the greater part of the surrounding woods. The
vzw Terlamen runs the circuit.
In 1959, Auto-Moto-Club Bolderberg came up with the idea to
build a circuit where its members could practice their hobby. In 1960, this
idea materialised into a small 2,700-meters long circuit. Very soon, it
became clear that this circuit was too small for national and international
competitions. A permanent and larger circuit was required. On 14 July 1963,
the 4,300-meters long circuit was officially inaugurated. In 1994, the
length was reduced to 4,184 meters.
Although not the largest, Circuit Zolder surely is one of
the safest circuits of the world. Moreover, the track has been built in such
a way that the drivers can demonstrate their true capacities. Since the
circuit constitutes a closed complex, timings, races or other events can be
organised without obstructing the circulation on the public road.
Besides many Formula I races in the past and other
internationally famous races such as the European Historic Grand Prix and
the Truck Super Prix, Circuit Zolder hosts many national and regional
competitions such as the New Race Festival, the 24 Hours of Zolder, the
Belgian Masters and the Race Promotion Night as well. Every year, Circuit
Zolder is the place-to-be for thousands of visitors.
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