By Kaitlyn Bruce :
NASCAR has always been centered around family, with strong connections among its participants—fathers sharing the sport’s traditions with their sons and brothers. Names like Allison, Earnhardt, Elliott, Petty, Wallace, and Waltrip highlight these familial ties in racing. The connection extends even beyond the track; in the stands, you can see parents passing their passion for the sport to their children as the entire family cheers for their favorite drivers. I remember spending Sunday afternoons either watching races with my dad or listening to them on the radio while we tackled our chores. This became a cherished custom for us.
I vividly recall the first time I heard those famous four words in person: “Drivers, start your engines!” I was with my dad and grandpa at Talladega, and my excitement and anticipation grew as I felt the thunder of the engines. Even today, I still experience that same thrill whenever I hear those words.
Every racing enthusiast can attest to the fact that both superspeedways and short tracks offer some of the best experiences in the sport, creating exhilarating and unpredictable racing. Here in Virginia, we have the chance to enjoy two renowned short tracks—Richmond Raceway, often referred to as “America’s Premiere Short Track,” and Martinsville Speedway, nicknamed “The Paperclip.”
Richmond Raceway has a rich history, with its first race taking place shortly after World War II in 1946 as a dirt track. Enthusiasm surged following Lee Petty’s thrilling victory in the inaugural NASCAR Cup Series race in 1953. Since then, Richmond Raceway has become a hub for racing fans in the state. Recently, races have returned to being held at night, and excitement for the upcoming Richmond race is building, with tickets selling quickly for what will be the second-to-last regular-season Cup race on August 16. Get ready for some close racing as drivers compete for the final spots in the Championship Playoffs.
So, why not ignite some excitement for the sport? Bring along your family and friends and make a day of it. Tailgate before the race, grill some burgers and hot dogs, enjoy a game of cornhole, and then head inside the track for the Richmond racing experience. The smell of burnt rubber, the roar of engines through the turns and across the straightaways, and the electric energy of the crowd as the drivers race bumper to bumper will contribute to an unforgettable memory.
Visit RichmondRaceway.com to purchase tickets and learn more about additional spectator experiences available. Virginia is for racing lovers, so whether you are a first-time attendee or a third-generation racing fan, we hope to see you at the track soon!
