DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Engaging in a wheelbarrow race can take a dangerous turn, especially if proper handling is neglected. Just ask one Daytona 500 enthusiast from last year who lost the tip of a finger during the festivities after letting go of his grip on the wheelbarrow. A frantic search ensued as party-goers, using their phone lights, combed through the infield in an unsuccessful pursuit for the severed digit. Fortunately, the fan made it back to the racing scene, albeit this time sporting gloves.
“The more they drink,” commented Cush Revette, the mastermind behind the wheelbarrow races, “the stupider they get.” As dusk falls at Daytona International Speedway, the celebratory spirit of race week transitions into an all-out bash in the infield that embraces the eccentricity of the event.
The festivities come alive with an array of wheelbarrows, karaoke machines blasting tunes, and homemade bars constructed from enough wood to overshadow a Home Depot. Once racing concludes for the day, the nightlife takes center stage where the fun never fades, regardless of the racing schedule. Adventurous party-goers willingly throw themselves into these enthusiastic, alcohol-fueled races, all the while knowing the first responders are not too far off.
“No liability whatsoever,” Revette added with a chuckle, “just a whole lot of fun after the race.” As participants prepare for the races, various colorful wheelbarrows line up, from ones sporting a General Lee paint job to a cart humorously nicknamed “Ross Crashtain.” Competitors navigate through an improvised course, all aiming for the finish line marked by a checkered flag atop an orange cone.
With a playful grin, Revette remarked, “Just rednecks coming through. They couldn’t pass a sobriety test in the morning, much less at night.” A casual gaze at the incredible party atmosphere shows that somewhere on the expansive Daytona property — notable even for housing its own lake — the wild celebration is in full swing.
In the midst of a patch of ostentatious RVs with flags representing racing legends like Earnhardt and Elliott, Red 38 stands out as the most vibrant bar within the speedway. Carrying a name that reflects its location and aesthetics, this lively establishment operates like a typical neighborhood pub but with racetrack flair. Shots are plentiful for familiar faces and newcomers alike, while shelves are stocked with various spirits.
As the music pumps, it’s not rare for enthusiastic patrons to shed their shirts and dance in celebration. Over the years, prominent figures from NASCAR, including two-time Daytona 500 champion Michael Waltrip, have stopped by for a nightcap.
Dress code? None required. American flag overalls could earn one a seat at the bar to catch the game on a sizeable screen, as founder Bill Fenton insists, “Where else can I gather for a few drinks, crank up the music, smoke cigars, and share bad jokes for ten straight days?”
At Daytona, tailgating has become almost as competitive as the races themselves. The vibe inside Red 38 uniquely embodies the racing spirit, with signs advertising Speedweeks specials. From delicious Southern dishes to themed party nights, revelers find plenty to enjoy before the final call at midnight, which is typically two hours after track activity ceases.
If energy permits, however, one can continue to celebrate well into the night, although Fenton noted, “You usually don’t.” Take a ride on a vibrant golf cart with pulsating music, pass palm tree decorations, and stop to enjoy karaoke hosted by JR Richards, a Minnesota native whose campsite is a hub for singing enthusiasts.
Last year, even a rainstorm couldn’t stop more than 70 campers from gathering under a tent to sing John Denver’s classic “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” Richards fondly remarked that this camaraderie fosters a sense of family among their small community. Their ties have grown strong over more than a decade of sharing this tradition.
However, the festivities aren’t without their mishaps. Richards humorously recounted an incident where he was caught underfoot during a previous wheelbarrow race.
Further up the playful atmosphere, the 15-foot-high observation deck offers a panoramic perspective of the racetrack, all while the aromas of barbecue permeate the air. Jay Colburn, who has camped here for eight years with a group of childhood friends, transformed the setup into a spacious suite, ensuring ample comfort.
Among his cherished memories is a humorous incident involving a NASCAR driver who had too much fun in a nearby bar. “He had about eight people hanging off his cart and drove into somebody down there,” Colburn recalled, laughing. Such moments contribute to the exciting and unpredictable nature of the experience.
Looking forward, Colburn is optimistic about the prospect of a prominent visitor returning to the track: “I’m counting on President Trump making another Daytona 500 appearance,” he remarked, reminiscing about the 2020 pace lap in “The Beast,” the heavily fortified presidential limousine.
As the party winds down, nighttime festivities eventually give way to a quieter vibe, though not before a few final races of remote-controlled cars against actual vehicles. With inexpensive drinks on offer—especially compared to typical sports venues—there’s no shortage of laughter and competition among friends.
As the revelers begin to settle, it’s time to stow away the wheelbarrows and say goodbye to the music in what has been an unforgettable night, all while waiting for the Air Force Thunderbirds to provide an early morning wake-up as a prelude to the next round of celebrations.
