Did you know that stock car racing is the official state sport in North Carolina? To say that NASCAR is huge here is a bit of an understatement. Every year, visitors from all over the world flock to Charlotte to watch NASCAR races at Charlotte Motor Speedway and to visit places such as the NASCAR Hall of Fame. This love of racing didn’t just suddenly appear. The history of stock car racing in the Queen City reveals exactly why this sport is so cherished today.
 Rough Beginning
The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) was originally founded in 1948 by Bill France Sr., and Charlotte Motor Speedway was built on the outskirts of Charlotte just over 10 years later by Bruton Smith. The 1.5-mile superspeedway held its first World 600 in June of 1960, but had a slow start and fell on hard times only a year later.
Back on Track
After filing for bankruptcy, the speedway was able to remain afloat because a group of major stockholders were able to acquire the needed loans and funds for the track. By 1963, it had emerged from bankruptcy and the track began doing so well that plans for expansion were set in motion. New grandstands and luxury suites were implemented, in addition to new concession stands and exclusive dining and entertainment facilities.
Charlotte Motor Speedway Today
While things were rocky at first, Charlotte Motor Speedway quickly proved itself to be a profitable endeavor. In addition to perseverance from its founders, NASCAR’s popularity in Charlotte is largely due to how inclusive the sport is. NASCAR is a family-friendly event that welcomes people from all walks of life to participate in the fun and excitement it has to offer.
In addition to hosting three stock car races every year in the NASCAR Spring Cup series, Charlotte Motor Speedway is also home to a variety of other auto racing events, including drag racing and pickup truck racing. There is something here for everyone to enjoy, making it the perfect place to make lasting memories.
Upcoming NASCAR Races in Charlotte
If you are hoping to see a NASCAR event in Charlotte, you have a few opportunities to do so. Make sure you don’t miss these upcoming races:
- LiftMaster Pole Night (NASCAR Sprint Cup Series) on May 26, 2016 at 7:10 p.m.
- Hisense 4K TV 300 (NASCAR XFINITY Series) on May 28, 2016 at 2 p.m.
- Coca-Cola 600 (NASCAR Sprint Cup Series) on May 29, 2016 at 7 p.m.
- Bojangles’ Pole Night (NASCAR Sprint Cup Series) on October 6, 2016 at 7 p.m.
- Drive for the Cure 300 (NASCAR Infinity Series) on October 7, 2016 at 7 p.m.
- Bank of America 500 (NASCAR Sprint Cup Series) on October 8, 2016 at 6 p.m.
You can grab your tickets and find other fun events at Charlotte Motor Speedway’s website.
Make Your Dream a Reality in Charlotte
Despite rough beginnings, the founders of Charlotte Motor Speedway persevered and made their dreams a reality. If you are a small business owner or an entrepreneur, YourOffice Ballantyne has a variety of office space solutions that can help your business succeed. With over 81 plug and play offices, virtual solutions, and meeting spaces, we have the perfect solution that aligns with your specific goals. Contact us today and ask about how you can save even more with our two months’ free rent special!
