In 2000, Kentucky Speedway in Sparta, KY opened to a lot of excitement on the 1.5-mile banked oval, and the inaugural Belterra Resort Indy 300 didn't disappoint.

In early 1998, an announcement was made pertaining to a new 1.5-mile speedway oval would be built in Sparta, Kentucky, approximately 35 miles south of Cincinnati, Ohio, and just across from the Kentucky/Indiana border. Kentucky Speedway opened to rave reviews, and the inaugural Belterra Resort 300 in August 2000 was one for the record books. IRL Points leader Buddy Lazier started 7th, but drove flawlessly to his 2nd win of 2000 and fifth podium of the season. On a historical note, Sarah Fisher became the first woman to lead laps in the Indy Racing League and finish on the podium with her 3rd place finish.