Photos: The AJC's Doug Roberson on the track at Atlanta Motor Speedway

Sports

AJC sportswriter Doug Roberson drives a racecar on the new surface at Atlanta Motor Speedway on Jan. 14, 2022.

The AJC's Doug Roberson climbed into a race car and tested out the new surface at Atlanta Motor Speedway on Jan. 14, 2021. He was a media-day guest for the NASCAR Racing Experience. Photos courtesy of Atlanta Motor Speedway.

Doug Roberson gets to know the track and some strategy before his session. It's very different from soccer, his beat at the AJC. Photos courtesy of Atlanta Motor Speedway.

The AJC's Doug Roberson is suited up and ready to go racing. A photo of Bill Elliott behind him adds to the pressure. Photos courtesy of Atlanta Motor Speedway.

The AJC's Doug Roberson is behind the wheel and ready to roll. Photos courtesy of Atlanta Motor Speedway.

The crowd roars (maybe not) as the AJC's Doug Roberson speeds (maybe not) around the track. Photos courtesy of Atlanta Motor Speedway.

Roberson said one key tip he was given was: "Don’t turn right." He didn't. Photos courtesy of Atlanta Motor Speedway.

Roberson brings the car in safely and unscuffed. Photos courtesy of Atlanta Motor Speedway.

The AJC's Doug Roberson leaves the car. His top speed was 141.64 mph, just a bit below Bill Elliott's 212.809 mph in 1987 at Talladega. Photos courtesy of Atlanta Motor Speedway.

Roberson has raced plenty of deadlines in his career. Photos courtesy of Atlanta Motor Speedway.

Roberson earned this certificate, did not receive any offers to become a full-time driver, and returned to life as a sportswriter. Photos courtesy of Atlanta Motor Speedway.

1/10

The AJC's Doug Roberson climbed into a race car and tested out the new surface at Atlanta Motor Speedway on Jan. 14, 2021. He was a media-day guest for the NASCAR Racing Experience. Photos courtesy of Atlanta Motor Speedway.

Today's Gallery Headlines

PHOTOS: 2025 AJC Photos of the Year

PHOTOS: Coca-Cola ads over time

PHOTOS: Philanthropists leave mark on Atlanta

PHOTOS: Thomas County Central pummels Gainesville for 5A state title

More Galleries

PHOTOS: Sandy Creek defeats Jefferson for Class 3A championship

PHOTOS: Savannah Christmas model train garden began under the tree

Alerts