The Auto Writer

I haven’t written all that much about NASCAR this season, but that doesn’t mean that I’m not following most of the action. I believe that this is the first year that I have followed NASCAR from the very beginning of the season and I hope to keep my eyes and ears fixed on motorsports until shortly after the season wraps up in November.

I live in North Carolina which has a rich history when it comes to racing, particularly with NASCAR. Although the number of tracks currently being used for races has dwindled, the Lowe’s Motor Speedway in Charlotte (NASCAR’s hometown) is about as grand as they get.

Lowe’s is also the venue for the only 600-mile event of the season, the Coca Cola 600 which is held every year on the Sunday before Memorial Day. This jam-packed event not only features the top drivers duking it out, but it also serves as a patriotic salute to America’s armed forces. NASCAR has always extended a friendly hand to the men and women who serve in uniform.

Unlike most races which start earlier in the afternoon, the Coca Cola 600 is a late afternoon/evening affair to help spectators who must put up with blistering heat. By Memorial Day weekend, day time temperatures topping 90 degrees is common for Charlotte, with temperatures easily topping 100 degrees on the grandstand. By the time the race ends around 10 p.m. both track and grandstand conditions have cooled significantly. Of course, the cooling track can affect drivers who must adjust their driving accordingly.

Tickets run from $39 to $125 per person, but limited $10 tickets for children who are twelve and under are also available. At the present time I have no plans on attending, but that could change; either way I’m sure I’ll be tuning it.