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NASCAR Returns to Its Roots at Bowman Gray Stadium
Winston-Salem, N.C. — Ryan Blaney recalls the first time he raced at Bowman Gray Stadium as a young boy, not exceeding the age of 10. The experience stood out as the most exciting moment in his early racing career. Driving a Bandolero, a car specially created for novice racers, he found himself in front of a vibrant crowd of 17,000, the biggest gathering he had ever performed before. The atmosphere was electric, both on the track and in the stands.
“I remember encountering a few younger kids who were giving me a hard time when I was just 10,” Blaney recounted. “It was a telling moment that showed me the competitive nature of this place; people either like you or they don’t.” He chuckled, noting the irony of a child receiving criticism from other kids. “What’s there not to like about a 10-year-old, right?”
The excitement levels are again expected to soar during the Clash, a preseason exhibition event that NASCAR is hosting at Bowman Gray for the first time since 1971. As NASCAR has evolved, branching into more expansive and contemporary venues, Bowman Gray has preserved its historical feel, serving as a local racing hub and a site for Winston-Salem State University’s football games.
Due to its compact size, NASCAR recently produced a video showcasing various elements that can or cannot fit within the stadium. It humorously indicated that while a convenience store and a Bass Pro Shops might fit within the confines, a vast operation like the Team Penske race shop would definitely not.
The stadium’s tight quarters often lead to frequent accidents; a modified race on Saturday couldn’t complete a single lap before the first collision occurred. Known as the “Mecca of Madhouse,” Bowman Gray is notorious for its intense competitor interactions. Kyle Busch, a driver known for his combative spirit, joked that NASCAR had handed out a list detailing expected conflicts among participants.
This track holds a special place in the hearts of seasoned racing veterans, including car owner Richard Childress, who once sold peanuts in the bleachers as a child, and Eddie Wood, who recalls enjoying fries smeared with vinegar while witnessing his father’s team, Wood Brothers Racing, clinch numerous victories.
Tim Brown, a prominent driver with Rick Ware Racing, boasts the record for the most wins at Bowman Gray, securing 101 victories alongside 12 championships. With steadfast conviction, Brown remarked on the necessity of fighting in a place like Bowman Gray. He is set to make his Cup Series debut this week, marking it as a dream come true for a local racer who’s been in this particular racing community for three decades.
Reflecting on his racing career, Brown humorously disclosed that he has been involved in about ten physical altercations during races, proudly stating, “I won all of them.”
The rich history of Bowman Gray dates back to its construction in 1937 as a public works project. Interestingly, its inaugural event was a football game between Wake Forest and Duke in 1938, before transitioning to motorsport with a midget car race a year later. The venue hosted its first NASCAR-sanctioned event in 1949.
This non-points race serves as a prelude to the prestigious Daytona 500, set to take place on February 16 at Daytona International Speedway. Previously held at various locations, including the Los Angeles Memorial Stadium, the Clash made its way back to North Carolina to reconnect with the grass-roots of stock car racing.
While the race may not count towards official standings, the desire to triumph remains strong among drivers. Blaney expressed the thrill of winning at such an iconic venue, likening it to the achievement of winning at the famous Coliseum.
For Kyle Busch, the opportunity to race at a smaller venue like Bowman Gray offers significant benefits to the local racing community. As conversations about future race locations unfold, he advocates for the enhancement of local short tracks.
“Our presence can help to elevate the profiles of these small venues and the racers who compete there,” Busch stated, highlighting the importance of paving the way for future racing stars to grow from grassroots racing to the professional level.
The Clash is set to kick off on Saturday night, with 39 cars navigating short practice sessions before entering four qualifying heat races that will shape Sunday night’s grid. Historically, during the years between 1959 and 1971, every Cup winner came from the front two rows for an impressive 26 consecutive races.
Sunday’s main event promises 200 laps of high-stakes racing, with a crucial halftime break at the 100-lap mark, where only laps under green flag conditions will be counted.
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