Tag Archives: Charlotte

And the newest NASCAR Hall of Fame nominees for the Class of 2014 are…

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HOF Finals 4.18.07NASCAR  announced those 25 nominees for the NASCAR Hall of Fame’s fifth induction class, and included among the diverse group are five newcomers whose achievements are cornerstones of the sport’s origins and continue to fuel its growth in contemporary times.

Of the 25 nominees, 20 return from last year’s group. Five are first-timers with varying backgrounds in the sport: second generation NASCAR premier (now Sprint Cup) series champion Dale Jarrett; Maurice Petty, for more than three decades the chief engine builder for Petty Enterprises; five-time NASCAR weekly series national champion Larry Phillips; race track builder and owner Bruton Smith; and 1960 NASCAR premier series champion Rex White.

From that list, five inductees will be elected by the NASCAR Hall of Fame Voting Panel, which includes a nationwide fan vote on NASCAR.COM. Voting Day for the 2014 class will be May 22. Fans can attend the announcement at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, N.C.

This round of nominees was selected by a 21-person Nominating Committee consisting of representatives from NASCAR, the NASCAR Hall of Fame and track owners from both major facilities and historic short tracks. The committee’s votes were tabulated by accounting firm Ernst & Young.

The NASCAR Hall of Fame’s 2014 inductees will be determined by a 54-member Voting Panel, which includes the entire Nominating Committee, media members, manufacturer representatives, retired competitors (drivers, owners and crew chiefs) and recognized industry leaders. In addition, the fan vote will result in the Voting Panel’s final ballot. Fan voting on NASCAR.COM opens today, April 10 and closes May 21 at noon.

Following are the 25 nominees, listed alphabetically:

  • Red Byron, first NASCAR premier (now Sprint Cup) series champion, in 1949
  • Richard Childress, 11-time car owner champion in NASCAR’s three national series
  • Jerry Cook, six-time NASCAR Modified champion
  • H. Clay Earles, founder of Martinsville Speedway
  • Tim Flock, two-time NASCAR premier (now Sprint Cup) series champion
  • Ray Fox, legendary engine builder and owner of cars driven by Buck Baker, Junior Johnson and others
  • Anne Bledsoe France, helped build the sport with husband Bill France Sr. Affectionately known as “Annie B.,” she is the first woman to be nominated for induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame.
  • Rick Hendrick, 13-time car owner champion in NASCAR’s three national series
  • Jack Ingram, two-time NASCAR Busch (now Nationwide) Series champion and three-time Late Model Sportsman champion
  • Bobby Isaac, 1970 NASCAR premier (now Sprint Cup) series champion
  • Dale Jarrett, 1999 NASCAR premier (now Sprint Cup) series champion and three-time Daytona 500 winner
  • Fred Lorenzen, 26 wins and winner of the Daytona 500 and World 600
  • Raymond Parks, NASCAR’s first champion car owner
  • Benny Parsons, 1973 NASCAR premier (now Sprint Cup) series champion
  • Maurice Petty, chief engine builder for Petty Enterprises
  • Larry Phillips, only five-time NASCAR Whelen All-American Series national champion
  • Les Richter, former NASCAR executive; former president of Riverside International Raceway
  • Fireball Roberts, 33 NASCAR premier (now Sprint Cup) series wins, including the 1962 Daytona 500
  • T. Wayne Robertson, helped raise NASCAR popularity as R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company senior VP
  • Wendell Scott, NASCAR trailblazer was the first African-American NASCAR premier (now Sprint Cup) series race winner, and first to be nominated for induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame.
  • Ralph Seagraves, formed groundbreaking Winston-NASCAR partnership as executive with R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company
  • O. Bruton Smith, builder of Charlotte Motor Speedway and architect of Speedway Motorsports Inc.
  • Curtis Turner, early personality, called the “Babe Ruth of stock car racing”
  • Joe Weatherly, two-time NASCAR premier (now Sprint Cup) series champion
  • Rex White, 1960 NASCAR premier (now Sprint Cup) series champion

NOMINATING COMMITTEE

NASCAR Hall of Fame: Executive Director Winston Kelley; Historian Buz McKim.

NASCAR Officials: Chairman/CEO Brian France; Vice Chairman Jim France; President Mike Helton; Vice President of Competition Robin Pemberton; Senior Vice President of Racing Operations Steve O’Donnell; Competition Administrator Jerry Cook; former Senior Vice President Paul Brooks; former Vice President Ken Clapp.

Track Owners/Operators: International Speedway Corporation CEO Lesa Kennedy; Martinsville Speedway President Clay Campbell; Texas Motor Speedway President Eddie Gossage; Atlanta Motor Speedway President Ed Clark; former Indianapolis Motor Speedway President Tony George; Dover Motorsports CEO Denis McGlynn; Pocono Raceway board of director member Looie McNally; Bowman Gray Stadium operator Dale Pinilis; Riverhead Raceway operators Jim and Barbara Cromarty (1 vote); Rockford Speedway owner Jody Deery; Kingsport Speedway Operator Robert Pressley.

NASCAR PR

Tickets on sale now for 2013 NASCAR Acceleration Weekend in Charlotte

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For the second-consecutive year, reigning NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Brad Keselowski, five-time premier series winner Jimmie Johnson and NASCAR’s most popular driver Dale Earnhardt Jr. will help race fans celebrate the past, present and future of NASCAR. The return of NASCAR Acceleration Weekend – a fan-friendly, interactive experience – is scheduled for Feb. 8-10, 2013, at the Charlotte (N.C.) Convention Center and includes the 2013 NASCAR Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and NASCAR Preview 2013.

NASCAR Acceleration Weekend tickets are on sale now and available at www.nascaracceleration.com and the NASCAR Hall of Fame box office. Tickets for Friday night’s Induction Ceremony start at $45. In addition, a $20 ticket will gain fans all-day access into NASCAR Preview 2013 and the NASCAR Hall of Fame on Saturday, February 9.

More than 50 drivers across NASCAR’s three national series – NASCAR Sprint Cup, NASCAR Nationwide and NASCAR Camping World Truck Series – are scheduled to participate in the all-day NASCAR Preview 2013 event. Fans will have the opportunity to interact with drivers and secure autographs, participate in driver Q&A sessions, get a first-look at the new sixth-generation NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race cars and paint schemes and check out various interactive displays, among other activities.

The weekend’s activities begin Friday, February 8, with the 2013 NASCAR Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. The five inductees are Buck Baker, Cotton Owens, Herb Thomas, Rusty Wallace and Leonard Wood. Legendary broadcasters Ken Squier and Barney Hall will also be honored with the inaugural Squier-Hall Award for Media Excellence for their significant contributions to the success of NASCAR during their distinguished careers as media members covering the sport.

The following day, Saturday, February 9, NASCAR Preview 2013 begins at 7 a.m. in the Charlotte Convention Center. Similar to last year’s event, the all-day fan festival will feature autograph and on-stage Q&A sessions by top drivers from all three national series, the new sixth-generation NASCAR Sprint Cup cars and paint schemes, giveaways and activities for fans of all ages.

Among other marquee names scheduled to participate are four-time series champion Jeff Gordon, three-time series champion Tony Stewart, two-time NASCAR Nationwide Series champion Ricky Stenhouse Jr., reigning NASCAR Nationwide Series most popular driver Danica Patrick, and 2012 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series champion James Buescher.

Also on Saturday, February 9, the newly inducted NASCAR Hall of Fame members and/or their family representatives will be on hand for the unveiling of their Hall of Honor exhibits commemorating their NASCAR careers. On Sunday, February 10, each inductee’s granite marker will be unveiled in the Ceremonial Plaza as well as other exclusive member-only events.

 

NASCAR Media

NASCAR Preview ’12 big hit among race fans, media

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Rutledge Wood carries on a Q & A Session with Kevin Harvick and Brad Keselowski at the NASCAR Preview '12 in Charlotte, NC.

This was my second time visiting the NASCAR Hall of Fame located in Uptown Charlotte. Actually, this past weekend was the inaugural NASCAR Preview 2012 Presented by Sprint at the NASCAR Hall of Fame and Charlotte Convention Center that actually brought me there.

First off, I was a little confused as to why Charlotte-onians called Downtown, Uptown? So, I asked some local race fans and did some research and found it to be quite interesting.

There is much confusion brought about by the use of the terms “Uptown” and “Downtown” for Charlotte’s center city area. The history of the dual names is contested, yet prior to the mid-late 1980s, the term “Downtown” was used by residents, media and city leaders for the center city. As “history” has it, during the 1980s, after the release of “Uptown Girl” by musician Billy Joel, first released in 1983, caused a massive campaign to revamp the image of the downtown area and the term “Uptown”. Then on February 14, 1987, the local newspaper, the Charlotte Observer, began using the term “Uptown” as a way to promote a more positive upbeat image of the center city area.

All because of a song? Really….?

My routine during the weekend consisted of traveling to “Uptown” only a few miles away from where I was staying. I was so looking forward to this trip. It’s the “off season” for NASCAR, and only a week after the Preseason Thunder Fest/Testing at Daytona, but it was something to get back where my passion is….. and that’s with anything that has to do with NASCAR racing. After all, it had to with NASCAR……  after a 9 hour drive, I WAS SO THERE!

The weekend started Friday night at the Charlotte Convention Center in the Ballroom. That’s where the NASCAR Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony was held. Wow, I couldn’t believe the size of the convention center. It was huge and very nice.

Fans sit in a conference room waiting for their turn to get in line for their driver's autograph. Photo by Karen Pistone.

More than 60 drivers were on hand to sign autographs and greet fans, with several participating in fan Q&As.The conference rooms were set up for individual driver autograph sessions, broken up into sections for which ever driver was signing. This way, it was very organized and the fans actually had a place to sit while waiting their turn.

Additionally, NASCAR Hall of Fame inductees new and old led fans on personal guided tours of the Hall’s exhibits. Jeff Gordon also entertained fans during a question and answer session with Richard Petty, unveiling a new paint scheme commemorating 20 years in the sport with longtime sponsor DuPont.

New Miss Sprint Cup (middle) Kristen Beat joins Miss Sprint Cup Kim Coon and Miss Sprint Cup Jaclyn Roney. Photo by Karen Pistone

Two other pieces of news came out of event, as Sprint unveiled its Miss Sprint Cup lineup for 2012, and American Ethanol announced sponsorship for two highly visible race teams. Kristen Beat, a former on-air talent for Fuel TV and replaces Monica Palumbo, joins returning Miss Sprint Cup members Kim Coon and Jaclyn Roney for the 2012 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series season.

They had the NASCAR Preview ’12 event spread out through the two floors of the convention center. Driver autograph sessions were going on, while at the same time, each track had booths available for race fans to win free prizes and sign up for tickets and to answer any questions. There were vendors showing what new racing memorabilia will be available for 2012, including mugs, tumblers, t-shirts, sweatshirts, and so on.

Ryan Newman's No. 39 Quicken Loans Chevy is on display "refelcting" the new paint scheme - a matte finish- for 2012. Photo by Karen Pistone

Another interesting tidbit – as I was walking around looking at the new 2012 team cars on display, both of Newman’s No. 39 Chevy’s (his Army and Quicken Loans sponsored cars) caught my attention. I noticed both of his cars are painted with a matte finish – no glosss/or shine. I thought those two cars looked pretty awesome. I walked over and introduced to myself to the gentleman standing near the spoiler and asked “so what’s with the matte finish?” The gentleman, Todd Carte, is the Director of Business Development NASCAR for Quicken Loans – who just happens to be Ryan Newman’s sponsor for nine races in 2012 – replied, “we wanted something different. Today was really the first time I saw the car with the matte finish because I just got back into town and the guys at the shop were working on it. I like it. It turned out better than I thought it would.”

You know what, I totally agree!! I think it makes the graphics “pop” more. What a great idea!!

Additionally, American Ethanol announced that it will continue relationships with Richard Childress Racing and RAB racing for the 2012 season. Austin Dillon, the 2011 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series champion, will drive the No. 3 American Ethanol Chevrolet for six races in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, as well as one race in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series in 2012. Dillon’s No. 3 American Ethanol Chevrolet paint scheme was unveiled at the event. American Ethanol will also partner with Kenny Wallace and RAB Racing for the Daytona 500 on FOX, as well as five races in the NASCAR Nationwide Series.

As I walked around, I met a few more of my Facebook friends, which is always nice when I attend NASCAR events. It’s a great time to mingle and swap racing stories. I also saw how Sprint pre tapes race fans’ questions for the new season… they have race fans ask certain questions, such as “What is camber?” or “What is wedge?” recorded during the Acceleration Weekend, and they use it as filler throughout the season. Of course, the questions get answered and are aired throughout the season at the tracks.

I watched as crew members quickly assembled an engine with the electronic fuel injection. I also read about the Electronic Fuel Injection, which I thought I would share (in another blog!) because YOU WILL be hearing about this A LOT during the 2012 season.

As the day went on, I went and sat in the media work room updating my Facebook Fan page and uploading/tweeting photos of the days events, and it was very cool that at one time, I turned to look and there came walking in was NASCAR Hall of Famer, “Gentleman Ned” Jarrett. He said “hello” and perused around the media room, stopping to talk the media personalities. Then I hear an interview going on at the table in front of me, and I look up from computer and there sat Ty Dillon, talking about his favorite foods. I place my focus back to my keyboard to try to get more work done, but it happened again – I look up and there stood Kevin Harvick.

I will always say this about the sport of racing – NASCAR drivers are the most accessible sport figures available to media as well as to their fans. Being able to witness the Induction of some of NASCAR’s greatest drivers and to walk around checking out the NASCAR Preview ’12 was really an experience I will never forget.

Here’s looking forward to the NASCAR Preview 2013!!

NASCAR Hall of Fame inducts Class of 2012

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The Induction Ceremony ticket. Photo by Karen Pistone

The Class of 2012

The five inductees:

Richie Evans

Dale Inman

Darrell Waltrip

Glen Wood

Cale Yarborough

The Ring

Photo courtesy of the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

Each inductee receives a NASCAR Hall of Fame ring. The ring symbolizes each inductees passion, courage and skill. It’s also a symbol of achievement and excellence in a group of professionals. It’s crafted in 10k white gold, the NASCAR ribbon adorns the ring to represent the speed and spectacle about the sport. The ring is embellished with 25 diamonds totaling .303 carats, enhanced with two diamond cut blue sapphires. One side is personalized with the honoree’s name and year date he was inducted. The other side features the NASCAR Hall of Fame logo to represent “Where the Race Lives on.” The name of the honoree is engraved into the inside of the ring

The Induction Ceremony

The induction ceremony on Friday evening which was held in the Crown Ballroom of the Charlotte Convention Center and has increased the NASCAR Hall of Fame’s membership to 15.

Dale Inman, Richie Evans, Cale Yarborough, Darrell Waltrip, and Glen Wood joins the previous two classes of Inductees into the NASCAR Hall of Fame as the Class of 2012.

The night was set in elegance, yet down to earth as women wore evening dresses and guys wore suits, some with cowboy hats, and some with cowboy boots. As the Evans clan gathered before entering the ball room for the ceremony, there were plenty of orange ties to be seen as friends, colleagues and family were there in support of Richie Evans induction. I had the opportunity to talk to Richie Evans children, Jodi and Richie Jr. They were excited and very appreciative to have their father inducted. I was also very pleased to find out that Richie Jr. is a fan of Racingal.com as well as being a friend of mine on Facebook!! How cool is that?

As the night went on, the filming of the ceremony took place just as if it was airing live on TV. The first of the five inductees was Dale Inman. Richard Petty had the responsibility of inducting Dale into the Hall of Fame. How fitting was that? Inman, Richard Petty’s cousin, was credited for winning seven championships with Petty Enterprises. When Inman was presented with his NASCAR Hall of Fame ring, he noted “I’m kind of familiar with this ring. For the last two or three years, Richard has put it in my face a bunch of times.”

In conclusion to his speech, Inman said, “And I want to wish all the luck in the world to all the active crew chiefs now, and especially to the 9 and 43 – get after ‘em boys!“

The second inductee was Glen Wood. Wood, a four-time NASCAR premier series winner, stopped racing to become a full-time owner of the No. 21 Wood Brothers Ford team. With his four brothers, who include NASCAR Hall of Fame nominee and crew chief Leonard Wood, the organization counts 98 victories, including its fifth Daytona 500 win in 2011 with 20-year-old Trevor Bayne. Wood went on to remark that it took two families of working together that had resulted in him being inducted – the Wood family and the Ford family.

Next was the induction of the King of Modifieds, Richie Evans. His induction comes almost 27 years after his passing from a practice accident while at Martinsville Speedway, at the age of 44. Evans, nicknamed the “Rapid Roman” by virtue of racing out of Rome, N.Y., won nine championships over a 13-year span – including eight in a row – driving modified stock cars. His wife, Lynn, was there to accept his induction, which was presented by former crew chief Billy Nacewicz.

The fourth inductee was Cale Yarborough. His inductor was none other than Ken Squire. Yarborough made NASCAR premier series history in 1978 when he won his third consecutive championship, a record that stood until Jimmie Johnson claimed his fourth straight title in 2009. Yarborough, now 72, won 83 times – sixth all-time – including four Daytona 500s. The majority of his wins came in cars fielded by Junior Johnson.

“Racing is like a big, tall ladder,” Yarborough said. “When you begin, you’re at the bottom. And it’s a long, hard climb. And tonight, I feel like I’m standing on the top step.”

The final inductee was Darrell Waltrip. Did they save the best for last or what? But with all do respect, Darrell Waltrip finally made it into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, especially after last year’s class was announced, Darrell felt as though he was “dissed.”

Jeff Hammond was his inductor. Within five minutes of his speech, with no beating around the bush, it all came out…. Jeff Hammond (former crew chief for Junior Johnson’s team)  did NOT like Darrell Waltrip. He did NOT want him as their driver. “Why did it have to be Darrell Waltrip that came walking through those doors when Cale decided to cut back on his schedule?” asked Hammond. “Part of it is because he was beating us on the track more frequently, but the other part was, and you’ve heard this before…he would never shut up. He was always running his mouth.”

Hence, Cale’s famous nickname for Darrell – “JAWS.”  (cue the music to JAWS here).

With that said, here’s my segway to say ( and everyone knows DW… the man loves to talk!) that the media had a little bet going on how long his acceptance speech would be… (laughing). I was actually betting for DW to cry throughout the whole speech, but he held his composer pretty well.

Waltrip looked like a little kid in a candy store….he was excited and full of energy. “I was telling Stevie, (his wife) earlier this week that I hoped I wouldn’t get emotional tonight, but she reminded me ‘Honey, you always get emotional about the things you are passionate about,’” Waltrip said.

He got a little choked up when he started talking about his daughters, and that right there, impressed me…. and, of course, lost the bet. We all found out that Darrell’s going to become a Grandfather – his oldest daughter, Jessica and her husband, Fausto are expecting their first child. His other daughter, Sarah, was in the Philippines on a mission trip, but took a surprise 25 hour flight from the Philippines to be there for her father’s big night – that was his que to choke up… “and that means A LOT to an old dad, trust me.”

Overall the induction ceremony was well laid out and nicely done and I had a wonderful time. Congratulations to all the new members of the NASCAR Hall of Fame – the Class of 2012.

Speedway Charities blood drive/events coming to a speedway near you

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DOVER INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY

September 8, 2011

9/11 Memorial Blood Drive

9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Rollins Center Ballroom at Dover Downs Hotel & Casino.

To make an appointment to give blood, call the Blood Bank of Delmarva at 1-888-8-BLOOD-8 or visit www.delmarvablood.org. Although appointments are strongly encouraged, walk-in donors are welcome and will be taken as time allows.

Special to this year’s blood drive, all donors will receive the opportunity to take a pace car ride around the Monster Mile with track historian George Keller, who has not missed a NASCAR race weekend in Dover since the track opened in 1969.

TALLADEGA SUPERSPEEDWAY

Laps for Life Blood Drive

September 8th, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

All presenting volunteer donors will receive a t-shirt and goody bag. To register online, go to www.redcrossblood.org and enter the sponsor code TALLADEGA. Follow instructions on the web site to complete registration.

A credential will be issued at Pit Stop 1, “Draw For Qualifying” where participants will register to have blood drawn for donation, thus qualifying them for the rest of the adventure. There, they also will receive a ticket qualifying them for spectacular door prizes, such as driving school certificates and racing memorabilia.

After presenting to give blood, participants will move on to Pit Stop 2, “Souvenir Row,” where they’ll receive a goody bag filled with special items to commemorate the occasion.

From there, they’ll move to Pit Stop 3, “Driver’s Meeting,” to learn more about the history of motorsports by taking a free tour of the International Motorsports Hall of Fame and Museum.

After the tour, participants will venture outside to board a tour bus and be transported on a track tour of the famous Talladega Superspeedway. The tour will lead them to Pit Stop 4, “Type Testing.” Here, guests will be given the opportunity to have their photos taken in Gatorade Victory lane if they bring their camera.

Participants will return to the Hall of Fame for Pit Stop 5, “The Donor Diner,” where they will enjoy treats provided by Talladega Superspeedway sponsors.

NEW HAMPSHIRE MOTOR SPEEDWAY

Pit Road Spotter for a Day

Friday, August 5 – Friday, September 9, 2011

One fan can join one of the sport’s top pit road announcers, Jamie Little, as she broadcasts the action on pit road. On September 25, the highest bidder in a charity auction will receive a hot pit pass and spend the entire day with Jamie. All proceeds from the auction will go to the New Hampshire Motor Speedway division of Speedway Children’s Charities.

Go to http://www.gospeedway.com/Auctions/nhms/index.asp to place your bid.

LAS VEGAS MOTOR SPEEDWAY

Sixth annual Hero Blood Drive

Friday, September 9, 2011 9:00am-5:00pm

Find the hero in you and donate blood Saturday, Sept. 11 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. All donors will receive fabulous prizes for helping save lives.  To donate blood, individuals must be at least 17 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health.

Appointments may be scheduled by calling (702) 638-7400 or visit www.unitedbloodservice.org.

TEXAS MOTOR SPEEDWAY

Friday, September 9, 2011

12:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Texas Motor Speedway, 4th Floor of the Speedway Club

TEXT TO GIVE

Tuesday, February 1 – Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Text TEXAS to 20222 and donate $10 to Speedway Children’s Charities at Texas Motor Speedway, helping kids in need throughout North Texas.

IMPORTANT: when you text, you will receive a text in return asking you to confirm that you do indeed want to make the donation, you have to respond to that text in the affirmative in order to complete the transaction.

This donation shows up on your mobile bill.

DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY

9 /11 Blood and Marrow Drive

Saturday, September 10, 2011

8:00 AM to 8:00 PM

1801 West International Speedway Boulevard inside the Daytona 500® Club.

Each donor will receive:

• FREE Admission to the 2012 Subway Jalapeno 250 Powered by

Coca-Cola*

• FREE commemorative t-shirt*

• A chance to win 2 Daytona 500® Club ticket packages for the

2012 Daytona 500, if a minimum of 500 units of blood is collected

at the event.*

• A chance to win 2 Daytona 500® Club ticket packages for the

2012 Coke Zero 400 Powered by Coca-Cola, if a minimum of 900

units of blood is collected at the event.*

• Plus, make an appointment and be entered to win one of six

commemorative plaques containing a portion of Daytona’s

original asphalt.*

*One offer per donor, per donation. No cash value. Non-transferable. While supplies last. See website for complete promotion details. Blood donors must have photo ID.

MICHIGAN INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY

Spirit of America Blood Drive

September 11, 2011

A truly unique experience awaits blood donors at the Spirit of America Blood Drive. In addition to the optimism and goodwill of a blood drive, donors will be treated to:

* A commemorative event credential and ticket

* An event shirt, hat and pin

* Hospitality in the Champions Club

* Gifts from event sponsors

* A Victory Lane photograph

* Track tours

One of the highlights of the drive is “Home of the Brave” exhibit, located in the Michigan Room of the Pit Road Suites.;along with Hero’s Hall and Patriot Plaza.

Register online at http://www.mispeedway.com/Spirit-of-America/Spiritofamerica/Register.aspx

CHARLOTTE MOTOR SPEEDWAY

Speed for Children in Need

Saturday, December 10, 2011 3:00pm

Join Speedway Children’s Charities and the Hendrick Marrow Program to help local children in need through the Speed for Children in Need 5k. Hear the roar of the crowd as you run, walk, or skip your way through the exhilarating route at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Participants will enjoy an array of sights and sounds as the route leads them through zMAX Dragway, past the Dirt Track, over the pedestrian bridge, through the underground tunnel, and out onto the enormous track inside of Charlotte Motor Speedway. Be a part of this adrenaline-charged event that is unlike anything you have ever experienced with any other 5k.

In addition to the 5k Run/Walk participants can also enjoy a 1.5-mile track walk and kid’s dash. At the close of the event participants are invited to stay and enjoy Charlotte Motor Speedway’s Carolina Christmas light show.

Busy week leading up to NASCAR All-Star Race at Charlotte

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What’s new for this year’s All-Star race? NOTHING! But don’t forget the special qualifying procedures for  the All-Star Race. Procedures below:

· Qualifying consists of three laps, including a pit stop for four new tires.

· The pit road speed limit will be in effect when cars enter pit road but will not be in effect when cars exit.

· All cars must qualify with the fuel cell full of fuel.

· Total elapsed time of the 3-lap qualifying run will determine starting positions for the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race.

Dierks Bentley will be performing the pre-race concert prior to the All-Star race on May 21, as well as several autograph sessions taking place at the CMS ticket office during the event.

Sam Bass

10 a.m. from 12:45 p.m.;

Kyle Petty

11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

NASCAR Hall of Famer David Pearson

2 p.m. to 2:45 p.m.

Don’t forget about the NASCAR Rev’d Up taken place this Wednesday, May 18th at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in uptown Charlotte from 4 – 10 p.m.

There will also be driver appearances, NASCAR showcars, interactive displays, FREE concert with country artists Gary Allan and Josh Kelley.

Driver’s scheduled for appearances (and confirmed) so far are:

Kasey Kahne – 5:15 pm for Trivia with SPEED

Joey Logano – 7:15 pm Intro for Josh Kelley

Regan Smith – 8:40 pm Intro for Gary Allan

Clint Bowyer's No. 33 Nationwide crew member points the way for Bowyer as he leads pit road after a pit stop. Photo credit: Sandi Goodall, Racingal.com

Then, Thursday night at 7PM is the Sprint Pit Crew Challenge at the Time Warner Arena in uptown Charlotte. Each member of the pit crew will be timed in their individual specialty, with each team advancing or “going home” in a bracket-style competition.

2010 Team Champions

No. 11 FedEx Toyota

Jack Man                     Nate Bolling (Swanson, OH)

Gas Man                       Scott Wood (Liberty, SC)

Catch Can Man          John Eicher (London, CT)

Front Tire Changer   Mike Hicks (China Grove, NC)

Front Tire Carrier      Brandon Pegram (Statesville, NC)

Rear Tire Changer     Jon Sherman (Monroe, LA)

Rear Tire Carrier        Heath Cherry (Belmont, NC)

Broadcasted on SPEED at 9 pm EDT on Thursday, May 19th. Re-air scheduled on SPEED for May 22nd at Noon.

“FAN VOTE” – YOUR FAVORITE DRIVER INTO ALL-STAR RACE

Plus, don’t forget to vote for your favorite driver to be inducted into the All-Star Race via Fan Vote using the NASCAR Sprint Cup Mobile application on their Sprint or Nextel devices. Fans also may cast votes on to NASCAR.COM or visiting the Sprint Experience display, located in the midway at all NSCS races.

Voting closes the day of the race at 5 P.M.

SPEEDFEST presented by 3M

The fan appreciation day will take place on Saturday, May 21st from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at not only Charlotte Motor Speedway but also with festivities at the NASCAR Hall of Fame and at the Charlotte-area racing shops of Roush Fenway Racing, Hendrick Motorsports, Joe Gibbs Racing, Stewart-Haas Racing and Earnhardt Ganassi Racing.

Schedule of events announced for All-Star week in Charlotte

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NASCAR All-Star Race Week Long Schedule of Events

It’s almost that time of year again where the race fans look forward to some good ‘ole competition among pit crews and attend a “go all-out” non-points race with favorite drivers…. the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series All-Star Race. Don’t forget to vote for the “fan favorite.” Voting closes at 5 p.m. on May 21st. Just go to www.nascar.com/promos/allstar to cast your vote.

“NASCAR Rev’d Up,” a six-hour event highlighted by a concert and fan entertainment,returns and is free to the public, on Wednesday, May 18 at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in uptown Charlotte from 4 to 10 p.m. The program will feature driver appearances, NASCAR showcars and interactive displays, and culminate with a free concert starring multi-platinum country artist Gary Allan and country artist Josh Kelley.

The seventh annual NASCAR Sprint Pit Crew Challenge presented by Craftsman will take place prior to the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race on Thursday, May 19 at 7 p.m. at Time Warner Cable Arena (SPEED to televise on delayed basis beginning at 8 p.m.).

This competition between the top 24 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series pit crews has become a popular event among the fans and features some of the top pit crews. The event’s finishing order determines pit selection for the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race. The No. 11 FedEx Toyota is the defending Pit Crew Challenge Champion.

The 2011 NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race will be on Saturday, May 21 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. and  aired on SPEED at 7 p.m. ET.

Here’s a schedule of events taking place during All-Star week:

Wednesday, May 18 – 4-10 p.m.

“NASCAR Rev’d Up”

Located at the NASCAR Hall of Fame

Featuring a concert and interactive fan entertainment (free admission)

Wednesday, May 18 – 6 p.m.

NASCAR Hall of Fame Induction Dinner

At the NASCAR Hall of Fame

Thursday, May 19 – 6 p.m.

NASCAR Sprint Pit Crew Challenge presented by Craftsman

Time Warner Cable Arena, Charlotte

(for tickets go to www.pitcrewchallenge.com or call the Charlotte Bobcats ticket office at 800-745-3000)

Friday, May 20

NASCAR Day

Local activities at numerous NASCAR race tracks around the country. NASCAR Day is an annual charitable celebration that unifies the NASCAR community to better the lives of children. Limited-edition NASCAR Day pins are available and support the mission of Victory Junction. The pins are available for a $10 donation at The Sprint Experience at-track and at WWW.NASCAR.COM/foundation.

Friday, May 20 – 5 p.m.

NASCAR Sprint Cup All-Star Qualifying

Charlotte Motor Speedway

(for tickets call 1-800-455-FANS or log onto www.charlottemotorspeedway.com) on SPEED

Friday, May 20 – 8 p.m.

NASCAR Camping World Truck Series

Charlotte Motor Speedway

North Carolina Education Lottery 200

(for tickets call 1-800-455-FANS or www.charlottemotorspeedway.com) – on SPEED

Saturday, May 21 – 7:30 p.m.

Sprint Showdown

Charlotte Motor Speedway

(top-two finishers qualify for the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race).

For tickets call 1-800-455-FANS or www.charlottemotorspeedway.com – on SPEED

Saturday, May 21 – 9 p.m.

NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race

Charlotte Motor Speedway

(for tickets call 1-800-455-FANS or www.charlottemotorspeedway.com) – on SPEED

Sunday, May 22 – TBD

NASCAR Hall of Fame Fan Fest & Walk of Fame Unveiling

NASCAR Hall of Fame

Monday, May 23 – 7 p.m.

2011 NASCAR Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

NASCAR Hall of Fame

Bobby Allison, Bud Moore, Lee Petty, David Pearson and Ned Jarrett are officially inducted as the second class. The Induction Ceremony is open to the public. The historic event takes place in the Charlotte Convention Center’s Crown Ballroom, which is connected to the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and can be purchased through Ticketmaster or by calling 800-745-3000.

2011 NASCAR Hall of Fame Inductee, BUD MOORE

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2011 NASCAR Hall of Fame Inductee, Bud Moore

2011 NASCAR Hall of Fame Inductee, Bud Moore. Photo by Getty Images.

Hometown: Spartanburg, S.C.

Competed: 1961-2000

Starts: 959

Wins: 63

A decorated World War II infantryman, Bud Moore became a successful NASCAR Sprint Cup owner almost immediately upon fielding a team in 1961. Moore won back-to-back championships in 1962-63 with Joe Weatherly. Earlier, in 1957,

During 37 seasons in NASCAR’s premier division, Moore’s cars won 63 times and finished 298 and 463 times respectively among the top five and top 10. His cars also won 43 poles in the team’s 959 starts. Moore-owned cars have visited Victory Lane in most of the sport’s biggest events including the Daytona 500 and Southern 500.

Moore’s cars, both fast and dependable, attracted the sport’s top drivers. They included Weatherly, Dale Earnhardt, Fireball Roberts, David Pearson, Billy Wade, Darel Dieringer, Bobby Isaac, Buddy Baker, Benny Parsons, Bobby Allison, Ricky Rudd and Geoffrey Bodine.

Moore – who referred to himself as “a country mechanic” – was crew chief for champion Buck Baker. In 1974, Moore field Ford Torinos.

VIP Package SOLD OUT for NASCAR Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony – other’s still available

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2011 Induction Ceremony

Monday, May 23 at 7pm

Ticket packages for the Induction Ceremony are:

• (SOLD OUT) $150 – NEW VIP Package includes a first-class seat at the Induction Ceremony, free admission to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, an invitation to the private Jacket Ceremony in the Belk High Octane Theater, a meet & greet with NASCAR celebrities and a first look at the new Hall of Honor exhibits Tuesday, May 24.

• $75 – Premium Seat PLUS an opportunity to purchase general admission to the NASCAR Hall of Fame for $14.95.

• $55 – Regular Seat PLUS an opportunity to purchase general admission to the NASCAR Hall of Fame for $14.95.

You might have missed your chance to mingle with Hollywood greats at the Oscars, but don’t miss out on your opportunity to experience Charlotte’s very own version of the star-studded, celebrity-filled night at the 2011 NASCAR Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. The ceremony takes place  in the Charlotte Convention Center’s Crown Ballroom at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in the heart of uptown Charlotte.

2011 Induction Dinner

May 18

The NASCAR Hall of Fame will be hosting a dinner for the Inductees, their families, countless celebrities, NASCAR industry executives and local officials. This evening will be showcased by special presentations about each of the Inductees, honoring all they accomplished in their careers and solidifying their place in NASCAR history.

Meet the Men Who Made History

May 22

On Sunday, the NASCAR Hall of Fame will be presenting Inductee Fan Day! Come listen to 2011 Inductees – Bobby Allison, Ned Jarrett, Bud Moore and David Pearson – tell favorite stories about their careers.

General Tickets

- Adult $19.95
- Senior (60+) / Military $17.95
- Children (5-12) $12.95

Hours

Open daily 10 am-6 pm

Closed Christmas. Check calendar for holiday hours.

For further information on directions, discount tickets and more, please visit www.nascarhall.com

NASCAR Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony gets new date in 2012

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The 2011 NASCAR Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place on Monday, May 23 at 7 p.m. ET in the Charlotte Convention Center’s Crown Ballroom at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in uptown Charlotte, N.C. The highlight of this year’s event is the official induction of the 2011 Class of Inductees: Bobby Allison, Ned Jarrett, Bud Moore, David Pearson and Lee Petty.

However, the prestigious annual ceremony, which features presentations about each inductee from prominent members of the NASCAR community, will move from May to January starting in 2012.

“After holding the inaugural Induction Ceremony in May of 2010, we quickly decided a move to January would give this event a life of its own and would ensure the inductees garner the appropriate amount of attention from the fans, the media and the local community,” said NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France.

“We believe we can complement the star-studded main event with a full slate of activities that will draw fans from around the country. Race fans already flock to the Queen City in May and October. We plan to work with NASCAR, Charlotte Motor Speedway and the many motorsports businesses in the region to develop January into another must-visit time for the race fan and another opportunity for us to fill hotels, restaurants and attractions” said Tim Newman, chief executive officer of Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority.

“Getting inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame is a lifetime achievement for these legends,” said Winston Kelley, executive director of the NASCAR Hall of Fame. “The move to January ensures the spotlight is on them for this special honor.”

As a result of the schedule change, voting for the 2012 class will take place on June 14 inside the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Fans who purchase a ticket that day can attend this special event.

Source: Nascar Media