Light attendance at Bristol's Cup race: A crowd estimated at 90,000 attended the (Sprint Cup Series) race (at Bristol) despite near-perfect weather conditions of 72 degrees and sun.(Bristol Herald Courier)
AND Everything was there for a great Food City 500 race weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway except the crowds. NASCAR quit putting out official attendance figures a few years ago and track officials quit commenting on them around the same time, but from the eyeball test, the Bristol Motor Speedway looked around a third full for Sunday's Sprint Cup Series race. The crowd was even more sparse for Saturday's Xfinity Series race and the Friday qualifying crowd was virtually non-existent. The Sunday crowds were clearly better than the last two years for the spring race when March and then April showers not only brought May flowers but washed away race fans. But, this weekend had perfect weather and a great Xfinity Series race leading into the Food City 500 (Johnson City Press)(4-18-2016)

Bristol Driver Song Selections: Bristol Motor Speedway has always featured the most unique driver introductions on the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series circuit, but 2016 takes it to a whole new level with the addition of Colossus TV. The sights and sounds of each driver selecting their own songs was presented on the world's largest, outdoor, center-hung, four-sided video display. See the full list:
Jamie McMurray, "Take a Little Ride" Jason Aldean
Brad Keselowski, "I've Always Been Crazy" Waylon Jennings
Austin Dillon, "Look at My Dab" Migos
Kevin Harvick, "Thunderstruck" AC/DC
Kasey Kahne, "Fightin' Side of Me Merle Haggard
Trevor Bayne, "Rocky Top" Pride of the Southland Band
Regan Smith, "State of My Head" Shinedown
Danica Patrick, "Wrecking Ball" Miley Cyrus
Denny Hamlin, "Me, Myself & I G Eazy & Bebe Rexha
Casey Mears, "Nothin' But A Good Time" Poison
Ty Dillon, "Let's Get it On" Marvin Gaye
Clint Bowyer, "I Think I'll Just Stay Here and Drink" Merle Haggard
Greg Biffle, "All Summer Long" Kid Rock
Ricky Stenhouse Jr., "Simple Man" Charlie Daniels Band
Kyle Busch, "Candyman" Aloe Blacc & Zedd
Carl Edwards, "Have a Nice Day" Bon Jovi
Matt Kenseth, "Back for More" Five Finger Death Punch
Ryan Blaney, "Not the American Average" Asking Alexandria
Joey Logano, "White and Nerdy" Weird Al
David Ragan, "Stroker Ace Theme" Charlie Daniels Band
Chase Elliott, "Pledge Allegiance to the Hag" Eric Church
Paul Menard, "Guitar Gangsters and Cadillac Blood" Volbeat
Josh Wise, "Your Soul" Hippy Sabotage
Ryan Newman, "The Gambler" Kenny Rogers
Jeffrey Earnhardt, "Hard Working Man" Brooks & Dunn
Chris Buescher, "Hakuna Matata"
Landon Cassill, Sesame Street Theme
Kurt Busch, "Walk This Way" Aerosmith
Kyle Larson, "Outlaw State of Mind" Chris Stapleton
Aric Almirola, "Outsiders" Eric Church
Brian Scott, "Back in Black" AC/DC
Michael Annett, "Stone Cold Steve Austin Theme"
AJ Allmendinger, "The Bleeding" Five Finger Death Punch
Jimmie Johnson, "Fight For Your Right" Beastie Boys
Reed Sorenson, "Hypnotize" Notorious BIG
Martin Truex Jr., "Huntin', Fishin' and Lovin' Every Day" Luke Bryan
Matt DiBenedetto, "Sharp Dressed Man" ZZ Top
Dale Earnhardt Jr., "Gonna Fly (Rocky Theme) Bill Conti
Michael McDowell, "Simple Man" Charlie Daniels Band
Cole Whitt, "Stressed Out" Twenty One Pilots
(BMS)(4-18-2016)

'Overtime' line at Bristol: Because Bristol is a short track, the NASCAR "overtime" line is in Turn 3.(ESPN)(4-17-2016)

The Groove at Bristol expected to move: In Friday's opening NASCAR Sprint Cup Series practice at Bristol Motor Speedway, there was no mistaking the fastest way around the .533-mile oval. Consistently, drivers ran their top speeds on the bottom of the track. That runs contrary to the past few races at Bristol. Ever since the grinding of the top lane, the preferred line has been the outside. Never fear, says #19-Carl Edwards. The groove will move, either before or during Sunday's Food City 500. "I'm not exactly sure why," Edwards said on Friday afternoon when asked why the bottom lane was best in practice. "There might be some slight differences with the Goodyear tires, but probably the best reason or most likely reason for that is that we haven't put a lot of rubber down on the track yet, and it just seems like this place moves around a lot. We talked about it in practice. I don't think that the race will be run on the bottom like that. I think it will really widen out, but I don't know when it will happen. I don't know if it will happen today or all the way where we might have to wait until Sunday for it."(NASCAR Wire Service)(4-16-2016)

Rusty Wallace Named Grand Marshal for Food City 500: NASCAR Hall of Famer and former driver/sports analyst, Rusty Wallace has been named Grand Marshal for the April 17 Food City 500 at Bristol Motor Speedway. Wallace will give the command to start the 25th running of the Food City 500. "Over the years, Rusty has always been one of the greatest supporters of Food City and our racing program. As the driver who boasts the most Food City 500 wins (6), we thought it appropriate to recognize his tremendous contributions to our company and the sport by naming him Grand Marshal for the 25th running of the Food City 500," says Steven C. Smith, Food City president and chief executive officer.
'For over 30 years, racing legend Rusty Wallace has delighted racing fans with his hard-nosed and aggressive approach to racing and a personality and charisma that are unmatched. Wallace, a former NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion and 55-time race winner, will go into history as one of America's greatest racing drivers. At the time of his retirement, his career victories marked the eight-best all-time career total and his nearly 20,000 laps led rank him seventh all-time. For sixteen straight seasons, Wallace won at least one race in NASCAR's Sprint Cup Series, marking the third longest such streak in history. He is a member of the NASCAR Hall of Fame, International Motorsports Hall of Fame and the National Motorsports Press Association Hall of Fame. He is the recipient of numerous awards and accolades. As a former ABC/ESPN Racing Analyst, he has headlined a number of popular pre-race shows and is widely acknowledged as one of the world's foremost authorities on NASCAR racing.' Tickets are still available and may be purchased at www.BristolTix.com or by calling the BMS ticket office at 423-BRISTOL (274-7865).(BMS)(4-15-2016)

Tenn Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey named Honorary Starter of the Food City 500: Tennessee's Lt. Governor, Ron Ramsey has been named Honorary Starter for the April 17 Food City 500 at Bristol Motor Speedway. Lt. Governor Ramsey will wave the green flag to signal the start of Sunday's Food City 500. Lt. Governor Ramsey has built a reputation as the leading voice for economic growth in the General Assembly. The first Republican Senate Speaker in 140 years, Ramsey has been named "The Best Lawmaker for Business in Tennessee" by Business Tennessee magazine for his success in passing pro-growth policy to improve the state's business climate. A small business owner himself, Ramsey believes job growth must be the top priority for state government. He is the first GOP Senate Speaker in Tennessee in 140 years and the first from Sullivan County in over 100 years. In 2011, Ramsey was named to the Board of Directors of National Conference of State Legislators. In 2013, GOPAC named Lt. Governor Ramsey to their Legislative Leaders Advisory Board. Tickets are still available and may be purchased at www.BristolTix.com or by calling the BMS ticket office at 423-BRISTOL (274-7865).(BMS)(4-15-2016)

"Dale Jr. sandwich" will be available at Bristol: The banana and Hellmann's mayonnaise snack craze has hit an all-time high after NASCAR Sprint Cup Series star Dale Earnhardt Jr. tweeted out his love of the sandwich. Fans from NASCAR nation were quick to recreate the sandwich and post their experiences of this unique item. In honor of this enthusiasm, BMS will be offering the famous "Dale Jr Sandwich" featuring Hellman's mayonnaise and bananas on white bread during the Food City 500 weekend, April 15-17. The Dale Jr Sandwich is $4 and a portion of the proceeds will go to the Dale Jr. Foundation. Interested in trying it? Visit the concession stand in the Family Section of Waltrip Grandstand, just inside Gate 14 to the left.(BMS)(4-8-2016)

Peyton Manning named Bristol race official: Tennessee's proverbial hometown football hero, Peyton Manning, has been named Honorary Race Official of the Food City 500, April 17, at Bristol Motor Speedway. This will be Manning's first NASCAR experience courtesy of Nationwide. As an Honorary Race Official, the legendary quarterback will accompany fellow Nationwide spokesman, Dale Earnhardt Jr. during BMS's wildly popular driver introductions and experience the World's Fastest Half Mile in the Food City 500 from Earnhardt's pit box. In the NFL, Manning is the first and only quarterback to achieve 200 career wins, and his five NFL MVP awards are also a league record. He was the most valuable player of Super Bowl XLI, named to a record 14 Pro Bowls and has 14 4,000-yard passing seasons (NFL record) and is the NFL's all-time leader in passing yards (71,940) and touchdown passes (539). "I'm thrilled to get a chance to watch Dale compete at Bristol Motor Speedway," said Peyton Manning. "I want to thank Nationwide for bringing me to one of the great NASCAR tracks to watch what I'm sure will be an exciting race in front of some of the most passionate fans in the sport."(BMS)(4-7-2016)

Bill Goldberg returns to Bristol for driver intros: Bill Goldberg, one of the most popular professional wrestlers of all time, will once again pump fans up as pre-race host for April 17's Food City 500. Bristol Motor Speedway's driver introductions are unique on the NASCAR circuit as drivers select a song to play as they arrive in style at the Last Great Colosseum. Mixed together with Goldberg's famous voice and booming personality, the intros have become a fan favorite on the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series schedule. In addition to emceeing the Food City 500 intros, Goldberg will be on hand Saturday during the pre-race experience prior to the Fitzgerald Glider Kits 300 NASCAR XFINITY Series race. He will also make appearances throughout the weekend, including at Yee-Haw Banks and Brews. This is Goldberg's second appearance at Bristol, having served as pre-race host during last year's Food City 500.(BMS)(4-5-2016)

Full weekend of musical entertainment at Bristol: Bristol Motor Speedway is the place in 2016, and during the Food City 500 weekend, it will be the place for musical entertainment in the region. In addition to the previously announced pre-race concert featuring the Doobie Brothers, country star Clare Dunn, respected country music artist Lee Greenwood and country singer/songwriter Lance Stinson will be at Bristol Motor Speedway to entertain the fans during race weekend. The Doobie Brothers will take the stage prior to driver introductions on Sunday, April 17 to perform some of their greatest hits including "Rockin' Down the Highway", "Black Water" and "Jesus is Just Alright". While supplies last, Food City 500 ticket holders may add on a pre-race SuperPass and be stage-side (on the track) for the concert featuring The Doobie Brothers. The SuperPass also includes a Track Walk and track access for Bristol's wildly popular Food City 500 driver introductions.
Country music singer/songwriter Dunn will be rocking out for fans on Saturday, April 16. She will sing the national anthem prior to the Fitzgerald Glider Kits 300 NASCAR XFINITY Series race and perform a concert set on the Ole Smoky Roof at Turn 4 between the finish of the XFINITY race and the start of the PittLite 125 NASCAR K&N Pro Series East race.
Greenwood's career has spanned decades, charting more than 35 singles on the Billboard country music charts. His catalog includes "Somebody's Going to Love You" and "Dixie Road", but he will be on hand on Sunday during pre-race to perform his most famous song, "God Bless the USA", one of America's most well-known unofficial anthems.
Stinson, a native of South Georgia, is a singer of self-described "kick-in-the-teeth country" and has traveled all over the South to clubs and honky-tonks. After recently relocating to Nashville, he is continuing on his path of entertainment. Stinson will perform for fans following the conclusion of the PittLite 125 on Saturday.(BMS)(3-27-2016)

Bristol gets XFINITY race sponsor: The popular NASCAR XFINITY Series Dash 4 Cash heat race April 16 ratchets up the intensity with a new name, the Fitzgerald Glider Kits 300. Fitzgerald, a Tennessee-based company that is North America's leader in glider kit assembly, is joining the Bristol Motor Speedway family as a multi-year entitlement sponsor of the NASCAR XFINITY Series race. The Fitzgerald Glider Kits 300 is the first race of an XFINITY Series/K&N Pro Series doubleheader on Saturday during the Food City 500 weekend. The 2016 edition of the Fitzgerald Glider Kits 300 will feature the new Dash 4 Cash format, which will include two Heats and a Main event. Qualifying for the event will set the 40-car field with odd-numbered qualifiers competing in the first Heat and even-numbered qualifiers contending in the second. Finishing order from the two Heats will then set the final starting spots for the Main event of the Fitzgerald Glider Kits 300. The top two series regulars from each Heat will then battle for an additional $100,000 Dash 4 Cash bonus. For over 20 years, Fitzgerald has been the largest glider kit dealer in the country. They have refined their production of gliders, a new cab and chassis with rear axles but without an engine, transmission or accessorial parts, into a steady enterprise, which earned them the name of "The Glider Kit Specialist". The company produces more than 4,000 trucks per year and offers various models of the Peterbilt, Kenworth, Freightliner, and Western Star brands.(BMS)(3-15-2016)

Bush's Beans to continue sponsorship of Bristol pole day: Bush Brothers & Company is renewing its partnership with Bristol Motor Speedway for a third season. The company, based in East Tennessee, will continue to sponsor Bush's Beans Pole Day, April 15, in support of the Food City 500 weekend and the Bush's Beans 150 NASCAR Whelen Modified Series race entitlement on Aug. 17. In addition, Bush's Grillin' Beans will be available at the Bush's Trackside Cafes and at concession stands throughout the grandstands during the Food City 500 weekend. Fans can save $5 by purchasing tickets for Bush's Beans Pole Day by March 31. Children 12 years old and under are free with a paying adult. Adult tickets are $20 starting April 1. Bush's Beans Pole Day includes NASCAR Sprint Cup Series' Food City 500 practice and knockout-style qualifying, along with practice for the NASCAR XFINITY Series. The day ends with the Food City Race Night Fanfest on property.(BMS)(3-12-2016)

Colossus construction continues at Bristol: Construction of Colossus TV, the world's largest outdoor center-hung video screen, is on schedule and continues to pick up pace near the much anticipated debut of the new permanent outdoor display at Bristol Motor Speedway for the Food City 500 race weekend, April 15-17. The halo, the support structure that will hold Colossus TV, went approximately 155 feet in the air Monday, March 7 to have the support cables attached. This component weighs 146,000 pounds and is nearly 100 feet in diameter. The installation of Colossus TV's 540,000-watt, 428-speaker sound system continues. The next phase of construction is to assemble the gondola on the ground before it attaches to the halo.(BMS)(3-10-2016)

Bristol "tops off" support towers for Colossus: The fourth and final structural tower that will support Colossus, the world's largest outdoor, center-hung 4-sided screen, was "topped off" Thursday with the raising of an American flag. In addition, the scoring pylon in the infield has been removed. The next phase of the colossal undertaking is to install the cables that support Colossus TV as well as the state-of-the-art, 540,000-watt audio system powering 380 3-way loudspeakers and 48 stadium subwoofers - enough to make any rock star squirm with envy. The team at Bristol Motor Speedway has put together two timelapses that give a view of the removal of the scoring pylon and the building of one of the four towers.
Pylon removal
Tower construction
(Bristol Motor Speedway)(2-8-2016)

Another Football game at Bristol Motor Speedway? UPDATE: Tennessee and Virginia Tech might not be the only football teams playing at Bristol Motor Speedway next season. East Tennessee State University has been in negotiations to take on Western Carolina University in a Southern Conference game at the track, people close to the deal have confirmed. The Bucs and Catamounts could play at BMS on Sept. 17, a week after Tennessee and Virginia Tech take part in what has been dubbed the "Battle of Bristol." An official announcement about the ETSU-Western Carolina game, which has been rumored for months, is expected soon. When Tennessee and Virginia Tech meet at BMS on Sept. 10, the largest crowd ever for a college football game is expected to be on hand. The current record is 115,109, set in 2013 at Michigan Stadium during a game between Notre Dame and Michigan.(Johnson City Press)
AND A press conference has been called for Thursday at Bristol Motor Speedway. Neither side was willing to comment Tuesday on the nature of the announcement, but sources and media outlets indicate the East Tennessee State University Bucs will play Southern Conference rival Western Carolina in a football game inside 155,000-seat BMS this season on Sept. 17. (Bristol Herald Courier)(1-27-2016)
UPDATE: The ETSU Department of Intercollegiate Athletics and Bristol Motor Speedway held a joint press conference on Thursday afternoon to announce they have reached an agreement to host ETSU's 2016 Southern Conference football opener at the Last Great Colosseum. The Buccaneers, who are playing a full SoCon schedule this upcoming season, will host Western Carolina on Saturday, Sept. 17. ETSU football head coach Carl Torbush and the Buccaneers know the significance of playing at Bristol Motor Speedway and are excited to be part of this historic event. ETSU Season Ticket Holders will receive a general admission ticket to the game at BMS with their season ticket package. Reserved seating upgrades and parking will be available when purchasing ETSU season tickets. If you are an ETSU season ticket holder and have questions, please call the ETSU Ticket Office at 423-439-4828.(BMS)(1-29-2016)

Bristol names new communications manager: Bristol Motor Speedway and Dragway announced the hiring of accomplished public relations professional, Chris Lawyer as communications manager. Lawyer has worked with numerous forms of sports including motorsports, tennis and college athletics during his rising career. As a member of the communications team, Lawyer will lead public relations efforts for Bristol Dragway and the Bristol Chapter of Speedway Children's Charities. He also will assist in integrated strategy, development and execution for the Pilot Flying J Battle at Bristol as well as all Speedway and ancillary events. Lawyer comes to BMS following a two-year stint as Media Relations Manager at the National Hot Rod Association. In addition, Lawyer has held positions with Michigan International Speedway, the NASCAR Hall of Fame and Ole Miss Athletics among others.(BMS)(1-19-2016)

Construction of towers to support 'Colossus' screen begins at Bristol: The first phase of constructing the four towers that will support what is touted to be the world's largest center-hung video display started Wednesday at Bristol Motor Speedway. The towers - which range in height from 190 to 220 feet and weigh upwards of 50,000 pounds per 10 foot by 10 foot section - are needed to support the massive screen dubbed "Colossus." Rentenbach Constructors, of Knoxville, has two cranes from Barnhart Crane & Rigging outside of turn 2 in order to lift each section into place, where a crew of workers bolts the massive pieces into place. The tower piece of the construction is slated to be complete by Jan. 25. Engineers and construction crews are then scheduled to install the cables that will give support to the towers to hold "Colossus" in place. The entire project, including the installation of the giant television, is expected to be complete for the Food City 500 race weekend. BMS officials have said "Colossus" will enhance the experience of those visiting the speedway, providing them with premium viewing that "rivals the sharpness of the outdoor screens in Times Square as well as thunderous, high-quality sound provided via 428 stadium speakers," according to an earlier news release from BMS. See pictures at the Bristol Herald-Courier site.(1-8-2016)

Speedway Children's Charities Distributes Nearly $2.9 Million Nationwide: Speedway Children's Charities officials have announced that the nonprofit will distribute nearly $2.9 million in grants to more than 390 different charitable organizations across the country in 2015, bringing the total funds distributed since 1982 to more than $46 million.
"My parents started Speedway Children's Charities from modest beginnings with the goal of helping children in physical, financial, emotional and medical need," said Marcus Smith, vice chairman of Speedway Children's Charities. "From that first chapter at Charlotte Motor Speedway to now eight chapters at Speedway Motorsports' facilities nationwide, we've far surpassed their early expectations. But as long as there is a need, Speedway Children's Charities will continue working to improve the lives of children by supporting local nonprofits that help children in hundreds of local communities."
Funds distributed by Speedway Children's Charities chapters at Atlanta Motor Speedway, Bristol Motor Speedway, Charlotte Motor Speedway, Kentucky Speedway, Las Vegas Motor Speedway, New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Sonoma Raceway and Texas Motor Speedway totaled $2,886,902 in 2015. Speedway Children's Charities raises grant money through various fundraising activities, including clay shoots, track events, auctions, holiday light displays and more.
"It was a banner year for Speedway Children's Charities, and we can't thank the race fans, sponsors, volunteers, team owners, drivers and staff enough for all of their efforts to help children in need," said Maj. Gen. Chuck Swannack, executive director of Speedway Children's Charities. "Every single dollar or volunteer hour makes a difference, and these fundraising results will have a true impact to help children in need of a brighter future." For more information on SCC or to see how to volunteer or make a donation, visit www.speedwaycharities.org.(CMS)(12-16-2015)

Pilot Flying J sponsoring "Battle at Bristol": Pilot Flying J, the largest operator of travel centers in North America, announced that they have signed on to be the title sponsor of the Battle at Bristol - an iconic college football game to be held on Saturday, September 10, 2016 at Bristol Motor Speedway. The historic racetrack will host a border battle between the Virginia Tech Hokies and Tennessee Volunteers and is expected to shatter the existing college football attendance record. This sponsorship represents a monumental company initiative for Pilot Flying J. From securing naming rights for the game - Pilot Flying J Battle at Bristol - to using this pinnacle event as a catalyst to further engage employees, customers and consumers nationwide via multiple events, this opportunity will look to further position the company as a destination of choice in the travel center industry. Adding to the excitement, ESPN/ABC is confirmed as the broadcast partner of the Pilot Flying J Battle at Bristol, with time and final network to be determined at a later date. This sponsorship will complement Pilot Flying J's current sponsorship of NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Michael Annett's #46 car. Following Bristol Motor Speedway's legendary Night Race on August 20, 2016, the venue will be transformed into the world's largest football stadium for the inaugural Pilot Flying J Battle at Bristol game. With a projected attendance of 150,000, the event is expected to crush the previous college football attendance record, which currently stands at 115,109.(BMS)(11-25-2015)

Bass Pro Shops and the National Rifle Association sponsoring Bristol night race: The Night Race lights will shine brightly on hunters, sportsmen and women - America's true conservation heroes - as Bass Pro Shops and the National Rifle Association (NRA) team up with Bristol Motor Speedway to create the Bass Pro Shops NRA Night Race. Both organizations are excited to align with one of the most iconic motorsports events in the world and unite two great American traditions - NASCAR and the outdoors - while connecting directly with an audience that is passionate about both. Both Bass Pro Shops and the NRA, through its Hunting and Wildlife Conservation Committee, are deeply committed to conserving the outdoors and recognize the need to raise awareness about the contributions of America's hunters and sporting men and women. For example, hunters and anglers are the largest contributors to conservation in the United States, accounting for more than 75 percent of the funds provided to state conservation agencies. Sportsmen have contributed more than $7.2 billion to a variety of wildlife and habitat conservation programs since 1937 through hunting licenses and excise taxes on outdoor gear. Bass Pro Shops and the NRA are long-time supporters of Bristol Motor Speedway and its parent company, Speedway Motorsports Inc. (SMI) (NYSE: TRK) through multiple entitlement sponsorships at various motorsports venues and with NASCAR race teams and drivers.(BMS)(11-6-2015)

Bristol Motor Speedway announces world's largest outdoor, permanent, center-hung digital display: Bristol Motor Speedway (The Last Great Colosseum) will soon be the home of the world's largest outdoor, permanent, center-hung digital display, officials announced Wednesday. The display, named Colossus, will plunge fans into the color, roar and rumble of events through four high-resolution screens and a thunderous sound system, making the Bristol experience more immersive than ever before. "Combine all the energy and excitement of Bristol with the ultimate home theater system, and you've got Colossus," said Jerry Caldwell, executive vice president and general manager of Bristol Motor Speedway (BMS). "The size, resolution, and sound of this display will draw our guests into every bit of action on the track and in the infield." Each of Colossus' four custom-built screens is approximately 30 feet tall by 63 feet wide. In total, the system hosts nearly 54 million LEDs and 18 million pixels. At 6mm pitch, the pixels are grouped tighter than the large-scale outdoor displays in Times Square. The result: a glimmering visual experience capable of offering 281 trillion different color combinations, and one that's 23 times brighter and 25 percent sharper than the typical home HD TV. The display will hang from a halo-shaped truss and features an additional circular LED display beneath the screens which measures nearly six feet in height. Between the screens and the LED ring, that's more than 8,500 square feet of high-resolution, active viewing area.
Colossus also boasts a state-of-the-art, 540,000-watt audio system powering 380 3-way loudspeakers and 48 stadium subwoofers, enough to make any rock star squirm with envy. By contrast, the current system hosts 2,400 watts of power, with only 10 2-way loudspeakers and 8 subwoofers. The scale and quality of the project draws on the technology solutions expertise of partners such as Panasonic, a company known for creating large displays in numerous iconic sports venues across the U.S., including other Speedway Motorsports, Inc., (SMI) tracks like Charlotte and Texas Motor Speedways.
"Panasonic is honored to be chosen by Bristol Motor Speedway as their technology partner for a project that so dramatically transforms the fan experience," said Douglas Moss, senior vice president, Marketing and Sales, president of Panasonic Enterprise Solutions Company. "We worked closely with Bristol to recommend a unique, high-end technology solution that we believe is a true game-changer. Colossus lives up to its name in every respect, creating a completely immersive fan experience with its sheer size, unparalleled resolution and imaging crispness. Panasonic has a proud relationship with Speedway Motorsports, Inc., delivering customized technology solutions to SMI-owned and operated member race tracks, a legacy that continues to grow and now includes Bristol as the latest high-profile success story."
Once the build begins in November, the track's existing pylon and screen frame will be removed, clearing the infield for next year's NASCAR events and the Battle at Bristol, college football's biggest-ever game. Colossus will rise via four massive support towers ranging in height from 190-220 feet and weighing in at approximately 437 tons. These will be positioned outside the bowl, and the display will then be suspended over the infield by miles of cabling, the largest of which exceeds the diameter of the vertical cables supporting the Golden Gate Bridge. Rentenbach Constructors of Knoxville, Tenn. is taking on the build of the structure. "It's a real thrill for Rentenbach to be back at BMS to help install this exciting piece of technology," said Don Freeman, chairman, Rentenbach Constructors, a Christman Company. "Construction of the Speedway continues to be a special point of pride for everyone at our company, and the chance to do more than be on the sidelines cheering at the upcoming Battle at Bristol will make this once-in-a-lifetime game day even more special."
According to Caldwell, Colossus will be ready to dazzle guests at the Spring 2016 NASCAR race. Throughout the year, BMS will demonstrate one of Colossus' additional design elements: the ability to transfer screens around the facility for events like the NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals in June and the track's annual holiday celebration, Speedway in Lights. "Colossus will transform the way we see, hear and experience events at Bristol, and provide additional opportunities for events here," said Caldwell. "We're fortunate to have entrepreneurs and owners like Bruton and Marcus Smith who care about providing fans with the best possible entertainment experience."
Colossal Facts: Colossus is brilliant.
Colossus has the highest viewing quality of any permanent outdoor stadium display in the world. It features 2880 x 1350 lines of resolution, compared to the average home HDTV screen at 1920 x 1080.
Colossus hosts nearly 54 million LEDs and 18 million pixels, and is capable of displaying 281 trillion different color combinations.
The space between pixels, known as pitch, is closer on Colossus than any other large-scale outdoor installation. At 6mm pitch, the pixels are grouped tighter than the large-scale outdoor displays in Times Square.
Colossus is big.
It's the largest outdoor, center-hung screen display in the world.
Colossus features four LED screens. Each one is 5 feet tall and 62.9 feet wide, and all together, equals approximately 1,145 50-inch TV's.
Each screen will be at least 20 feet closer to guests and 5 times larger than current screens.
The unit will also have a lower viewing ring measuring 5 feet 11 inches high by almost 189 feet in circumference, for an additional 961.2 total square feet of screen space.
Colossus weighs nearly 700 tons. This includes:
437 tons of steel among the four supporting towers, or roughly the same weight as 1,748 college football goal posts.
127 tons in the supporting ring, screen frame and screens. That's more than the combined weight of every player and coach on the UT and VT football teams-for the next five years.
117 tons of cabling. The largest diameter cable weighs 63 pounds per foot, and the suspension cables are larger than the vertical cables supporting the Golden Gate Bridge.
The main cable suspending the screens is long enough to circle the track twice.
Colossus is bold.
With 540,000 watts powering 380 3-way loudspeakers and 48 stadium subwoofers, Colossus' sound system will go boom. By comparison, the former system featured 2,400 watts, 10 2-way loudspeakers and 8 subwoofers.
Colossus provides a listening distance of no more than 90 feet from speakers to ears, compared to a previous listening distance of 200-400 feet.
The quality of the system's speakers means there will be less than 3 decibels of difference among any seat in the grandstands.
The sound system hosts 40 miles of cabling and fiber optics, enough for 80 track laps.
All of Colossus' electrical power is certified Green for energy efficiency.(bristolmotorspeedway.com).(10-4-2015)

Bristol sees largest crowd since 2008: Picture-perfect weather combined with a pre-race concert by Steven Tyler and Jeff Gordon's last race on the high banks led to the largest crowd at Bristol Motor Speedway since 2008. While a capacity crowd was often taken for granted during the days of 55 straight sellouts from 1992-2008, it's actually quite a feat to fill the world's eighth largest sports stadium in one of the smallest markets which NASCAR races. Jerry Caldwell, BMS Executive Vice President and General Manager, credited the speedway's team of employees for helping to make it the huge turnout, estimated over 150,000 strong, a reality. "It's a massive crowd here and we're really excited about it," Caldwell said. "The team worked so hard for so many months. They've put everything we've got into all of this from Steven Tyler to (famed boxing announcer) Michael Buffer (who did driver introductions) to the 43 greatest drivers in the world."(Johnson City Press)(8-23-2015)

Driver Into Songs for the IRWIN Tools Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway:
(by starting lineup / order)
#11-Denny Hamlin: Heart Upon My Sleeve by Avicii
#18-Kyle Busch: DJ Barry
#19-Carl Edwards: Juke Box Hero by Foreigner
#55-David Ragan: Only In America by Brooks and Dunn
#22-Joey Logano: Shipping Up To Boston by Dropkick Murphys
#2-Brad Keselowski: Drop It Like It's Hot by Snoop Dogg
#4-Kevin Harvick: Real Life by Jake Owen
#17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr.: The Stroke by Billy Squier
#15-Clint Bowyer: Going Through the Big D by Mark Chesnutt
#48-Jimmie Johnson: Renegades by X-Ambassadors
#41-Kurt Busch: Party Up by DMX
#42-Kyle Larson: Saturday Night's Alright by Elton John
#20-Matt Kenseth: Stife by Trivium
#51-Justin Allgaier: Ready Set Roll by Chase Rice
#21-Ryan Blaney: Even Flow by Pearl Jam
#3-Austin Dillon: Move by Ludacris
#16-Greg Biffle: Wild Side by Motley Crue
#31-Ryan Newman: Good Ol Boys by Waylon Jennings
#5-Kasey Kahne: Cherry Bomb by John Mellencamp
#88-Dale Earnhardt Jr.: Eminence Front by The Who
#1-Jamie McMurray: Walk This Way by Aerosmith
#6-Trevor Bayne: Back Where I Come From by Kenny Chesney
#78-Martin Truex Jr.: La Grange by ZZ Top
#24-Jeff Gordon: EI by Nelly
#47-A.J. Allmendinger: Tainted Love by Marilyn Manson
#9-Sam Hornish Jr.: Touch of Grey by the Grateful Dead
#34-Brett Moffitt: Cowboy by Kid Rock
#13-Casey Mears: Fuel by Metallica
#27-Paul Menard: Symphony of Destruction by Megadeath
#95-Michael McDowell: Nothing I Can Do by Tedashii
#43-Aric Almirola: I Can't Drive 55 by Sammy Hagar
#10-Danica Patrick: Hot Blooded" by Foreigner
#35-Cole Whitt: Armor For The Lord by Blake Whiteley
#32-Josh Wise: Dixieland Delight by Alabama
#46-Michael Annett: Bernie Lean by Bernie Dance
#7-Alex Bowman: Bring Me The Horizon by Throne
#38-David Gilliland: Kick Start my Heart by Motley Crue
#23-J.J. Yeley: Devil in Disguise by Elvis Pressley
#40-Landon Cassill: Smooth by Santana
#14-Tony Stewart: Smoke on the Water by Deep Purple
#98-Timmy Hill: Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae) by Silentó
#83-Matt Dibenedetto: I Love Rock & Roll by Joan Jett
#33-Mike Bliss: Hells Bells by AC/DC
(8-22-2015)

Bristol Motor Speedway Introduces New Jeff Gordon Terrace In a spectacular career that's spanned more than two decades, Jeff Gordon has collected some big, big trophies for his shelf. The one that Bristol Motor Speedway (BMS) awarded him Friday, though, is probably the most sizable one of all. Saturday, Aug. 22 marks Gordon's final race at Bristol as a full-time Sprint Cup Series driver, a run that he'll make in his iconic Rainbow Warrior paint scheme. To commemorate his last appearance and his expansive history as one of NASCAR's greatest competitors, BMS is naming a portion of the Last Great Colosseum the Jeff Gordon Terrace. "Bristol Motor Speedway plays so many roles in the industry and in our guests' lives," said Jerry Caldwell, general manager for BMS. "It's a battlefield. It's home, two or three times a year, to thousands of guests, some of whom have been coming here for generations. And it's a monument to the legends of NASCAR. As Jeff Gordon makes his last full-time run here, we can't think of a better way to recognize him than to place him among our ranks of champions who have dedicated their lives to racing excellence." A four-time Sprint Cup Series Champion, Gordon first ran at Bristol in April 1993, finishing 24th. His first Bristol win came in April 1995, when he captured his first of four consecutive spring races. He has logged more than 21,500 laps on the World's Fastest Half-Mile, and led for 2,713 of those. Overall, Gordon's Bristol record includes 45 starts, five victories, 17 top fives, 25 top 10s and five poles. He has been named one of NASCAR's 50 Greatest Drivers. "We want to honor Jeff for his contribution to our sport, and we look forward to his continued presence in the industry," said Caldwell. "The Jeff Gordon Terrace will be a great reminder of everything he's accomplished and all that he's done for his fans." Engines fire for the legendary IRWIN Tools Night Race on August 22 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available. For more information, visit BristolTix.com or call (855) 580-5525.(BMS)(8-22-2015)

NASCAR Transporter Parade Thursday night in Bristol: It begins at 9 p.m. at The Pinnacle development at Exit 74 of Interstate 81. From The Pinnacle, it will travel east on U.S. Highway 11W, also known as West State Street, enter Virginia on eastbound Euclid Avenue, turn right onto southbound Commonwealth Avenue, and continue south on Volunteer Parkway. The parade will travel by Food City Race Night in downtown, as it has done in past years, and enter Bristol Motor Speedway at the South Entrance. The parade gives the public an opportunity to watch NASCAR's brightly-colored, multi-million dollar heavy haulers parade the cars of Sprint Cup Series drivers into BMS. Fireworks will be on display at several locations along the route. Fans also may watch the haulers park from the grandstands by entering through Gate 10 (just outside Turn 3).(Brtistol Herald Courier)(8-20-2015)

Bristol to commemorate Gordon's final race: It's a bittersweet thing, welcoming Jeff Gordon to his final battle in the Last Great Colosseum. At the August 22 IRWIN Tools Night Race, for the first time in years, guests will get to see Gordon run in his iconic Rainbow Warrior paint scheme. But it'll be his last appearance at Bristol Motor Speedway as a full-time Sprint Cup driver, and emotions will be high. Several honors for Gordon are in the works for the IRWIN Tools Night Race, including:
A tribute video during opening ceremonies.
A fan salute on lap 24 of the race, when fans will cheer on the #24 car with branded rally towels. More than 100,000 towels will be distributed at the gates, courtesy of Bristol Motor Speedway.
Branding of the outside track wall with #24.
A custom-designed cover for the souvenir programs, created by motorsports artist Sam Bass. Featuring Gordon's #24 Axalta Chevrolet, the programs are limited edition and available for $10, tax included. In addition, collectors' t-shirts are available in Speedway World, located in the Bruton Smith Building, and in select souvenir stands on grounds.
A tribute wall, located in the fan zone, where guests can leave personalized notes. Signage throughout the facility will also honor the champion.(BMS)(8-14-2015)

Estes named President of Sebring International Raceway: Wayne Estes has been named President and General Manager of Sebring International Raceway. Estes joins Sebring after serving on the staff at Bristol Motor Speedway for 17 years. While at Bristol he enjoyed many roles, ranging from Communications Director to Vice President of Events. He was previously a Public Relations Manager at Campbell & Co. (now known as Campbell Marketing & Communications), where he handled the Ford Motor Company's motorsports accounts for NASCAR. Estes replaces Tres Stephenson, who announced earlier in the year that next season's Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring Fueled by Fresh From Florida will be his final race. Sebring International Raceway was established in 1950, evolving from a World War II B-17 training base called Hendricks Field. Since 1952 it has been home to the famous 12-hour endurance race, held every March. The 12 Hours of Sebring was recently voted one of the world's ten best races by USA Today's Travel Media Group.(IMSA)(8-13-2015)

Sam Bass designs Bristol program cover to honor Gordon: Sam Bass was the first person ever to see Jeff Gordon's Rainbow car. As the original designer of the iconic paint scheme, he knew he had something really special when he finished drawing it out for the first time in the summer of 1992. To commemorate the Rainbow Car's return for The Irwin Tools Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway, Bass recently got the chance to draw and paint the car again. "When we decided to celebrate Jeff Gordon's final race at Bristol, we knew we wanted to have Sam do our cover art," said track President Jerry Caldwell. "He has painted numerous memorable covers for us since 1996. We thought the work he did on this one was especially creative, as it beautifully commemorates Jeff's stunning 22 year career here at Bristol." Fans can purchase the commemorative program at Bristol Motor Speedway during race weekend or order one at GoSpeedwayWorld.com. Sam will be making appearances at Food City Family Race Nights in Knoxville and Bristol during race week. He will also be at the track, making him available to autograph programs for fans.(Sam Bass PR)(8-8-2015)

BMS and Chevy Invite Fans To Join First Bristol Black Out: In the AC/DC song, on the Intimidator's legendary #3 Chevy, on the track walls at Bristol Motor Speedway, black is back. It's the color of power, chosen for Chevrolet's 2015 Midnight Silverado Special Edition, and in honor of the Bristol Blackout Powered by Chevrolet, BMS is encouraging the thousands of guests attending the August 22 IRWIN Tools Night Race (ITNR) to wear their favorite NASCAR driver's t-shirt in black. Sleek, sinister, and ready to work, the Midnight Silverado Special Edition will be out in force at Bristol Motor Speedway (BMS) this August. In honor of the "Bristol Blackout Powered by Chevrolet," a fleet of the all-black 2015 Midnight Silverado Special Edition trucks will star in the ITNR, shuttling all 43 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series racers during the driver introductions and parade. An additional fleet of black 2015 Silverado 2500 HD's will power the free tram service on Speedway property and sustain the grueling workloads of BMS Operations. Race fans wishing to be a part of BMS's pre-race ceremonies are encouraged to visit BristolBlackout.com to win two tickets to the legendary ITNR and one of two opportunities to wheel a Sprint Cup Series driver around the World's Fastest Half-Mile in the Midnight Silverado Special Edition truck. Forty-one additional winners also will receive two tickets to the race and the opportunity to cruise in the cab of a truck hauling a NASCAR Sprint Cup driver during the parade lap. In Bristol Motor Speedway's display lot, a limited supply of free black Bowtie t-shirts will be available at the Chevrolet fan interactive unit. Other limited-edition blackout t-shirts are available for purchase at the BMS Speedway World and souvenir stands around the track and in the new Fanatics air-conditioned merchandise tent. For more details on the promotion or the Bristol Blackout Powered by Chevrolet visit BristolBlackout.com or call (855) 580-5525.(BMS)(8-4-2015)

Race Lodging Offers Affordable Accommodations For Bristol, Martinsville Races: Race fans searching for lodging in Bristol and Martinsville, Va., have a simple choice for affordable accommodations close to the tracks: Race Lodging LLC. Race Lodging, which has been serving race fans for more than a decade, has options for most any budget in either Bristol or Martinsville for each track's NASCAR Sprint Cup races this fall. "We take great pride in working with race fans and doing everything we can to find them the accommodations they need," said Aleeta Gent, owner of Race Lodging, LLC and All Journeys Travel. "We want to make sure that when someone gets to town for a race they can enjoy themselves without having any problems with lodging." In Bristol, Race Lodging offers lodging in private homes, hotels and Race Day Center Condos, which are located across the street from Bristol Motor Speedway. There are a wide range of choices in private homes, from renting a single bedroom in a house to multi-bedroom executive level homes and most everything in between. One, two and three-bedroom units are available at Race Day Condos. Full-hookup campsites are also available at Race Day Center.
In Martinsville Race Lodging has a wide range of private homes available for rent, again ranging from one bedroom accommodations to multi-bedroom homes. In both the Martinsville and Bristol areas Race Lodging can handle booking hotel rooms for the upcoming races. Race Lodging's sister company, All Journeys Travel, can help provide turnkey travel arrangements for both Bristol and Martinsville, including flight, car rental and hotel. For more information, call 423.764.5454 or visit online at www.racelodging.com (Bristol) or www.martinsvilleracelodging.com (Martinsville).(PR)(8-3-2015)

Steven Tyler To Headline Pre-Race Concert at Bristol: Steven Tyler, with Nashville-based band Loving Mary, is bringing his undeniable swagger and sound to Bristol Motor Speedway for the August 22 IRWIN Tools Night Race. "Aerosmith front man, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy-award winner - Steven Tyler is not just an American icon, but a worldwide phenomenon," said Jerry Caldwell, general manager of BMS. "You put him together with the Night Race, one of the top five motorsports events in the world, and the energy in the grandstands will just be amazing." During the pre-race concert, Tyler will perform his new single, the first from his upcoming solo album with Dot Records. Ticket holders will also be treated to some familiar Aerosmith favorites. Voted a Top 5 Motorsports Race in the entire world by the USA Today Reader's Choice Awards-the only NASCAR event that made the list-the IRWIN Tools Night Race will take place August 22 at the World's Fastest Half Mile. IRWIN Tools Night Race tickets, which include the pre-race concert, start at just $74 for single-day tickets, with weekend packages as low as $99. Additionally, a limited number of Steven Tyler SuperPacks are available. These include a pre-race SuperPass (track walk, plus on-track access to the concert and Sprint Cup driver introductions), a Cold Pit Pass (for pre-race access to the Garage area), and select Steven Tyler merchandise. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit BristolTix.com or call (855) 580-5525.(BMS)(8-1-2015)

Bristol to hold fan day during test session July 29 UPDATE: Up to 12 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams are expected to test at Bristol Motor Speedway Wednesday, July 29, an event that the Speedway is making free to the public as part of the "It's MY Bristol Baby!" campaign to express the Speedway's appreciation to local fans and supporters. Bristol Motor Speedway Fan Day activities run 9:00am-5:00pm/et. Beginning at Noon, the Speedway will offer interactive displays and kids' activities including show cars, mascot appearances, photo sharing, inflatables and face painting. Participating Sprint Cup drivers will be announced the week of July 27. Guests can enter the Speedway through the North or South entrances off Volunteer Parkway, and the stands via Gate 7.(BMS)(7-11-2015)
UPDATE: NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams will be looking to get a jump on the competition for next month's annual night race at Bristol Motor Speedway as several teams are scheduled to take part in an open test this Wednesday at the 0.533-mile track. Team Penske driver #22-Joey Logano, the defending winner of the Irwin Tools Night Race, heads up a list that includes #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (Roush Fenway Racing), #1-Jamie McMurray (Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates), #55-David Ragan (Michael Waltrip Racing), #27-Paul Menard (Richard Childress Racing), #19-Carl Edwards (Joe Gibbs Racing), #10-Danica Patrick (Stewart-Haas Racing), #21-Ryan Blaney (Wood Brothers Racing), #5-Kasey Kahne (Hendrick Motorsports) and #43-Aric Almirola (Richard Petty Motorsports). A two-day Goodyear tire test previously scheduled for Monday and Tuesday has been canceled.(NASCAR.com)(7-28-2015)

Irwin Tools Night Race hosts guests from all 50 states: Visitor stats for the Irwin Tools Night Race (ITNR), popular for its under-the-lights action, showed that in 2014 the track hosted guests from all 50 states and 25 foreign countries. With two months to go until the August 22, 2015 event, that's a mark the Bristol Motor Speedway expects to exceed. Ticket sales for the upcoming event are brisk, showing that to date, fans from all 50 states and the District of Columbia will travel to Bristol, located on the border of northeast Tennessee and southwest Virginia. Making that journey along with them will be citizens from 20 foreign countries, among them Australia, Austria, Brazil, Denmark, England, Finland, France, Germany, Israel, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Sweden and Switzerland.
That focus on customer service and the comfort of home has filtered out across the globe, generating loyalty among international guests. Of those with August 2015 ITNR tickets, 22% have been season ticket holders for at least 15 years, and 9.6% of those guests have visited for at least 18 years. BMS's international guests share a common affinity of beloved drivers with their United States counterparts. If each international ticket holder from last year journeyed from the center of their country to the Speedway, the distance would equal 123,653.61 miles.
In 2014, sales show that Bristol's largest international fan base came from all regions of Canada, with Australia, England, Germany, New Zealand and Norway rounding out the top six. Other countries represented included China, Japan, South Africa, Norway, Scotland, Italy, Russia, Moldova, Argentina and Mexico. Some international consumers purchased tickets as late as the week of the race. Closer to home, Ohio represents the largest population of attendees outside of the track's home state. Ohioans drive six or more hours to reach Bristol Motor Speedway. Tickets to the August 22 IRWIN Tools Night Race are available. Single-day tickets start at just $74, with weekend packages as low as $99. For information on reserving a seat at Bristol, visit BristolTix.com or call (855) 580-5525.(BMS)(7-1-2015)

Kenseth wins at Bristol: #20-Matt Kenseth won the Food City 500 In Support Of Steve Byrnes And Stand Up To Cancer Sprint Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway for his 1st win of the season, 4th win at Bristol Motor Speedway and his 32nd career win. The race ended with one green-white-checkered attempt.
#48-Johnson finished second, the rest of the top 10: #24-Gordon, #17-Stenhouse, Jr., #31-Newman, #14-Stewart, #42-Larson, #51-Allgaier, #10-Patrick, and #3-Dillon.
After starting an hour late, there were 3 red flags during the race - all for rain. The first was on lap 23 and lasted 3 hours and 58 minutes, the second was 13 minutes long on lap 273 and the final one was just before the green-white-checker restart.
Harvick, Logano, and Truex, Jr all came into the race with top-10 finishes in every race this season, but all three rain into trouble during the race. Harvick finished 39th, Logano 40th, and Truex, Jr 29th.
#11-Denny Hamlin started suffering neck spasms early in the race and was replaced by Erik Jones when the race restarted after the first red flag. Jones finished 26th.
Harvick continues to hold the Chase points lead. He and Johnson each have 2 wins on the season but Harvick has 314 points to Johnson's 258.
There were 21 lead changes among 6 drivers. There were 11 cautions for 117 yellow flag laps.
The average speed was 74.997mph.
See unofficial race results, awards, money won, laps led, cautions and more on the Unofficial Race Results page (pdf) and check out the Penalty Report (pdf) and Lap Summary Report (pdf).
See OFFICIAL race results & points standings on the Official Race & Points Report (pdf).(4-19-2015)

Bristol driver introduction songs: Bristol Motor Speedway secured its status long ago as one of the tracks with the most unique driver introductions, allowing the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series premiere stars to choose their introductory song. The 2015 driver introductions for the Food City 500 in Support of Steve Byrnes were no different. The full list of songs from today's driver introductions for the Food City 500 in Support of Steve Byrnes.:

Fans, NASCAR to honor Steve Brynes at Bristol: Sunday's NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race from Bristol Motor Speedway -- the Food City 500 In Support Of Steve Byrnes And Stand Up To Cancer -- is including race teams, NASCAR officials and race fans in a heartfelt gesture to support one of the sport's most popular broadcasters and all of those battling cancer. As race fans enter Bristol Motor Speedway Sunday morning, they have the opportunity to receive a Stand Up To Cancer placard, writing in the name of someone they are supporting in their battle against the deadly disease. Race team crews and NASCAR officials have placards specifically honoring Byrnes. There are two opportunities to display the placards during the race airing live on FOX on Sunday, April 19 -- during parade laps, when crews are asked to stand atop the pit wall with their salutes, and again on lap 250 of the 500-lap race, when fans are asked to Stand Up To Cancer with their placards. In addition, NASCAR is offering race teams the option to carry a special car decal with Byrnes' initials, honoring him with placement on the B-post or C-post of any Sprint Cup, SFINITY, or K&N Series entry. Byrnes' brother, Dan Byrnes, and his family (wife Tammy; Steve's nephews Tyler and Dylan; and niece Samantha) are attending Sunday's race on behalf of Steve Byrnes and his family. Byrnes has been battling courageously against head and neck cancer. He is the co-host of NASCAR Race Hub and the play-by-play announcer for the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series.(Fox Sports)(4-18-2015)

Chevy returns at official vehicle and pace car at Bristol: Chevrolet, with more than a century of motorsports success, reunites with Bristol Motor Speedway in a multiyear deal as the official vehicle and pace car of the iconic short track. Beginning with this weekend's first race, Drive to Stop Diabetes 300, a red Chevrolet Camaro 1LE pace car will lead the field of 40 NASCAR XFINITY Series drivers down to the green flag. The Camaro will be the front-runner throughout the 160-mile contest as drivers duke it out at the World's Fastest Half-Mile. For the first time since 2008, a Chevrolet will serve as the pace car of the Food City 500 in Support of Steve Byrnes and Stand Up To Cancer. A sleek white Chevrolet SS will lead the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series cars to the start of the race and pace the field throughout the battle of the high banks. The Chevrolet pace car for the Food City 500 will be adorned with Steve Byrnes' name above the driver and passenger doors.(BMS)(4-17-2015)

Bristol Motor Speedway mobile app available: Bristol Motor Speedway guests attending the Food City 500 in Support of Steve Byrnes will be able to stay up to date on every aspect of the race weekend activities with the Speedway's new mobile app for iPhone and Android users. The free app will be updated real-time with event schedules, ticket information, the latest news, entertainment options, photos, maps, directions, as well as live audio of race broadcasts. The new app is available on iTunes and Google Play by searching Bristol Motor Speedway. Guests need to register in the application to gain access to the full feature set and communications.(BMS)(4-14-2015)

Bristol race renamed to honor Steve Byrnes: In recognition of FOX Sports broadcaster Steve Byrnes' courageous and ongoing battle with head-and-neck cancer, FOX Sports, in coordination with Bristol Motor Speedway, Speedway Motorsports Inc., Stand Up To Cancer and NASCAR, is naming the April 19 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race from Bristol the Food City 500 In Support Of Steve Byrnes And Stand Up To Cancer. The event, which will be aired live on FOX at 12:30pm/et, pays tribute to Byrnes, a NASCAR television mainstay for 30 years, while also serving as a vehicle of support and awareness for all those battling cancer. Byrnes, co-host of "NASCAR Race Hub" and play-by-play announcer for the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, is on a medical leave of absence while he undergoes treatment. He has been part of the FOX NASCAR broadcast team since its inaugural year of NASCAR Sprint Cup Series coverage in 2001. "The support I have received from my teammates at FOX Sports, drivers, team members, track officials, NASCAR and the fans has been overwhelming," Byrnes said. "So many families are affected by cancer, and to play a small part in raising awareness is an honor to me."(FoxSports)(4-10-2015)

Dukes of Hazzard stars host pre-race concert at Bristol: Autotrader will bring Tom Wopat and John Schneider, stars of the new Autotrader TV commercials and the hit TV series The Dukes of Hazard to Bristol Motor Speedway as hosts of the Autotrader Pre-Race Concert. Two-time Grammy winners Old Crow Medicine Show will headline the Autotrader Pre-Race Concert for the Food City 500, Sunday, April 19. Guests at the Food City 500 will be entertained by the group some call the greatest string band in the world with punk-rock swagger and an old school country sound. The talented artists that are best known for "Wagon Wheel" will perform a 30-minute must-see show. Prior to the Autotrader Pre-Race Concert, hosts Tom Wopat and John Schneider will make an appearance from 9:30 - 10:15a at the Autotrader display in the Fan Zone on the Speedway grounds. The stars of The Dukes of Hazzard will also cheer on Joey Logano in the Team Penske #22 Autotrader Ford Fusion. Autotrader unveiled a special paint scheme showcasing their new logo on the #22 for the Food City 500.(BMS)(4-10-2015)

Bill Goldberg to emcee Bristol driver intros: Bristol Motor Speedway announced fan-favorite Bill Goldberg will serve as the pre-race host for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Food City 500, April 19. The legendary pro-wrestler, former NFL football player, TV host and automobile aficionado will emcee Bristol's unique driver introductions. Bristol Motor Speedway is a venue like no other and each year the stars of NASCAR march to their own beat into the Last Great Colosseum. Driver's select a song that is played as they are introduced during pre-race ceremonies. The tradition has become one of the most popular driver introductions on the circuit.(BMS)(4-7-2015)

Priority Points program announced for the Battle at Bristol and future events: Bristol Motor Speedway (BMS) has constructed a new platform to ensure their most loyal customers - as determined by longevity and money spent - receive priority. The new Priority Points program will aid in the allocation of seating, parking and camping for the Battle at Bristol and future events. The Battle at Bristol is expected to draw more than 150,000 fans when the iconic NASCAR short track transforms into college football's largest venue Sept. 10, 2016. Touted as a border battle between the University of Tennessee and rival Virginia Tech, the game is on track to crush the current NCAA single-game attendance record of 115,109, which was set in September 2013 at Michigan Stadium.
Only current BMS season ticket holders are able to place a guaranteed deposit for Battle at Bristol tickets through the Speedway and are encouraged to do so before summer. Beginning July 1, BMS NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals Combo ticket holders are able to make nonguaranteed deposits for remaining Battle at Bristol tickets. Any unfulfilled ticket requests secured with a deposit will be refunded. Deposits will be processed in the order of customer's Priority Points total. The deadline to place a deposit on Battle at Bristol tickets is Sept. 10, 2015.
Customers who purchased BMS tickets in 2014 - '15 will receive a customized mailer within a few weeks containing an example of their Priority Point's calculation and detailed brochure. The brochure is also available online by visiting BattleAtBristolTix.com or by calling 844-367-6175.
To increase an account's Priority Points total, purchase tickets for the upcoming NASCAR race weekend April 17 - 19. Food City 500 tickets start at just $64, or to experience a summer of fun with the best value, BMS season tickets begin at $149. Prices increase by $5 race week beginning at 12:01 a.m., Sunday, April 12. For more information visit BristolTix.com or to purchase tickets call 423-BRISTOL.(BMS)(4-5-2015)

Old Crow Medicine Show headline Bristol pre-race concert: Hot on the heels of collecting their second Grammy, Old Crow Medicine Show isn't showing any signs of slowing down. In fact, when Old Crow visits Bristol Motor Speedway on April 19 for the AutoTrader Pre-Race Concert, race fans at the Food City 500 will witness what some call the greatest string band in the world with punk-rock swagger and an old school country sound. Tickets are currently available for race weekend by calling (855) 580-5525 or visiting BristolTix.com. While supplies last, Food City 500 ticket holders may add on a pre-race SuperPass and be stage-side (on the track) for the concert featuring Old Crow Medicine Show. The SuperPass also includes a Track Walk and track access for Bristol's wildly popular Food City 500 Driver Introductions.(BMS)(4-4-2015)

Jeff Gordon's Children Named Grand Marshals For Food City 500: The children of four-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion, Jeff Gordon have been named Grand Marshals for the April 19 Food City 500 at Bristol Motor Speedway. Ella (age 7) and Leo (age 4) will give the command to start the 24th running of the Food City 500. "Over the years, Jeff Gordon has been a true friend to Food City and our region. He has been a loyal supporter of Food City Family Race Night and raised countless dollars in support of our local food banks through his partnership with AARP's Drive to End Hunger," said Steven C. Smith, Food City president and chief executive officer. "In appreciation for his many contributions to our company and our region; and to commemorate his final season competing for a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship, we couldn't think of more befitting Grand Marshals for our Food City 500 than Jeff's children."
His combined determination, hard work and decades of experience have achieved an unparalleled roster of victories, boasting 92 career NASCAR Sprint Cup Series victories and third on the all-time wins and pole award lists. Gordon is a three-time Daytona 500 winner, five-time Brickyard 400 winner, three-time champion of The Sprint All-Star Challenge and four-time Food City 500 winner - and the list goes on and on.
Food City is Bristol Motor Speedway's longest running sponsor and the second longest in NASCAR motorsports. The Food City 500 gets under way at 1:00pm/et on Sunday, April 19, 2015. Qualifying for the event takes place on Friday, April 17 at 4:45pm/et. Tickets are still available and may be purchased at www.BristolTix.com or by calling the BMS ticket office at 423-BRISTOL (274-7865).(BMS)(4-3-2015)

BMS to add SAFER before April race: Statement from Executive Vice President and General Manager of Bristol Motor Speedway, Jerry Caldwell, regarding the additional installation of SAFER barrier walls at Bristol Motor Speedway: "The safety of our fans and competitors continues to be a focal point for Bristol Motor Speedway," said Jerry Caldwell, executive vice president and general manager for Bristol Motor Speedway. "SMI engineers and NASCAR reevaluated the track and made additional recommendations. We've been able to secure an additional 600 feet of SAFER (Steel and Foam Energy Reduction) barriers and will complete the build out of the front and backstretch outside walls before the Food City 500 race weekend."(BMS)(4-2-2015)

Lilly Diabetes sponsoring Spring Bristol XFINITY race: Bristol Motor Speedway officials announce a multiyear sponsorship renewal with Lilly Diabetes for the April 18 NASCAR XFINITY Series race, now known as the Drive to Stop Diabetes 300. Paired with the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East Pitt Lite 125, the event kicks off a Saturday racing doubleheader with a sponsorship that highlights the growing epidemic of diabetes not only in Tennessee, but nationwide. Diabetes occurs when the body is unable to make or effectively use insulin. It impacts nearly 30 million Americans with Tennessee ranking fifth nationally in percentage of adults diagnosed. A chronic condition, diabetes leads to serious complications if not properly managed and causes more deaths each year than breast cancer and AIDS combined. A simple Diabetes Risk Test is available at www.drivetostopdiabetes.com. In 2013, Lilly Diabetes became the presenting sponsor of the American Diabetes Association's Drive to Stop Diabetes (D2SD). NASCAR XFINITY Series driver Ryan Reed is the voice of the initiative Reed, now age 21, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 17. He drives the No. 16 Lilly Diabetes American Diabetes Association Ford Mustang for Roush Fenway Racing.(BMS)(3-24-2015)

Triplett named Tennessee tourist commissioner: Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam announced Tuesday that NASCAR aficionado Kevin Triplett will join his cabinet as Department of Tourist Development commissioner. Triplett, 49, is vice president of public affairs for Bristol Motor Speedway. Prior to joining BMS in 2005, he worked in various roles for NASCAR, ultimately serving as managing director of business operations, guiding the operation and administration of NASCAR's Sprint Cup Series, Nationwide Series and Camping World Truck Series "Tourism is one of our state's largest industries, providing $16.7 billion in direct economic impact, and Kevin brings a lot of energy and passion to the industry with decades of experience pulling together different stakeholders and constituencies," Haslam said in a news release. From 1992 until 1994, Triplett represented General Motors Parts - GM Goodwrench and AC Delco - in NASCAR, specifically Richard Childress Racing and Ken Schrader Racing and their drivers, including Dale Earnhardt. His first day on the job is April 23 and replaces Susan Whitaker who announced her departure in December.(Tennessean)(3-18-2015)

Bush's Beans sponsoring pole day at Bristol: Bush Brothers & Company, based in East Tennessee, has expanded their partnership with Bristol Motor Speedway. In addition to renewing their Aug. 19, Bush's Beans 150 Whelen Modified Series race entitlement, they become the sponsor of Bush's Beans Pole Day, April 17, 2015, in support of the Food City 500 race weekend. Advance tickets for Bush's Beans Pole Day, Friday, April 17, are just $10 for adults. Prices increase to $15 on race week. Children 15 years old and under are free with a paying adult. The day includes NASCAR Sprint Cup Series' Food City 500 practice and qualifying, along with practice for the NASCAR XFINITY Series.(BMS)(3-13-2015)

Officials determine economic impact of Bristol Motor Speedway: Representatives from the Bristol TN/VA Chamber of Commerce, along with officials from Bristol Motor Speedway and Dragway, released figures during a Wednesday news conference that highlight the racing complex's positive economic impact on the region. According to the combined research, the direct economic impact of Bristol Motor Speedway and Bristol Dragway totaled more than $417 million for 2012 through 2014. This figure was derived from racing and ancillary activities held on-site, charitable events, contributions and tax revenue. The indirect economic impact of the venue totaled more than $1.4 billion moving through the regional economy.
For this year's NASCAR events, [Jerry Caldwell, executive vice president and general manager for Bristol Motor Speedway and Dragway] also announced that response to BMS' August 2014 introduction of Boxes at The Edge - open-air box seats in Turn One - resulted in the construction of additional boxes during the off-season. These plush seats include inbox attendant service, a Racing Electronics headset and scanner, and access to The Edge Deck, a mixing and mingling area located just 22 feet from the wheel fence. The Edge Deck ticket is transferable and comes with a pre-race track walk pass and a $25 Levy food credit. Race fans can purchase a Box at The Edge or an add-on ticket for The Edge Deck and enjoy an up-close and personal racing experience. In addition, Caldwell elaborated on a newly expanded Park-and-Ride option for fans who attend next month's Food City 500 race weekend. Through an arrangement with RallyBus, a crowd-powered, on-demand event travel company, fans have Park-and-Ride options in four Tri-Cities locations - Bristol, Virginia, Johnson City and Blountville, Tennessee, and a soon-to-be-named site in Kingsport, Tennessee. To reserve a space for Saturday, April 18, and/or Sunday, April 19, visit Rallybus.net/MyBristol. In addition, RallyBus will offer a reduced price of $20 per round-trip ticket. Reservations are required for all Tennessee locations.(BMS)(3-12-2015)

Nationwide Extends Partnership With Speedway Motorsports: Nationwide is continuing its long-time relationship with Speedway Motorsports, renewing its status as the official insurance company of Charlotte Motor Speedway and Bristol Motor Speedway through 2017. In addition to its partnership with Charlotte and Bristol Motor Speedways, Nationwide will feature at-track infield hospitality for their business partners at four SMI NASCAR event weekends throughout the 2015 race season. The new Nationwide mobile hospitality unit will be activated at Las Vegas Motor Speedway March 6-8, Charlotte Motor Speedway May 15-24, Kentucky Speedway July 9-11 and Bristol Motor Speedway August 19-22.(SMI)(3-8-2015)

USO of NC offers free Bristol tickets to the Military: Diet Mountain Dew and the USO of North Carolina invite you to join them Sunday, April 19, 2015 for the Food City 500 race at Bristol Motor Speedway. Active Duty, Reserve and National Guard and a guest are invited to the sport's most popular race track courtesy of Diet Mountain Dew. Due to the limited amount of tickets available, only 2 vouchers per military ID card holder will be distributed. Additional tickets can be purchased at a discounted military rate of $50 at the time that vouchers are redeemed at the Bristol Motor Speedway ticket booth. Vouchers must be printed out in order to be redeemed. To request tickets, visit: uso-nc.org.(VMG)(3-7-2015)

12 Days of Christmas Contest at Bristol: Race fans are foregoing three French hens and four calling birds for infield access and Battle at Bristol tickets as Bristol Motor Speedway brings back its popular "12 Days of Christmas" promotion. Offering the opportunity to win enhanced at-track experiences including tower access during Bristol Dragway's Thunder Valley Nationals event and access to the Ole Smoky Roof At Turn 4 during the April Food City 500, this year's prize list promises to brighten the holiday of any racing enthusiast. The complete list of 2014 prizes is:
December 14 - April NASCAR Race Weekend Tickets (2)
December 15 - NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals 3-Day Passes (2)
December 16 - Ole Smoky Roof At Turn 4 for the Food City 500 (2)
December 17 - Edge Deck Access for the IRWIN Tools Night Race (2)
December 18 - Food City 500 Cold Passes (2)
December 19 - Battle At Bristol Football Tickets (2)
December 20 - IRWIN Tools Night Race Cold Passes (2)
December 21 - Food City 500 Pre-Race SuperPasses (2)
December 22 - August NASCAR Race Week Hot Passes (2)
December 23 - August NASCAR Race Weekend Tickets (2)
December 24 - Tower Roof Access at NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals
December 25 - April NASCAR Race Weekend Hot Passes (2)
Fans may submit one entry per day at BristolMotorSpeedway.com/12Days. Daily winners are announced on the track's website and social media accounts.(BMS)(12-15-2014)

Atlanta removing 17,000 seats, Charlotte 41,000 UPDATE: Atlanta Motor Speedway's parent company, Speedway Motorsports, Inc., announced Tuesday that they will remove 17,000 seats from the track's grandstands. The company anticipates using those areas for premium hospitality, advertising and other facility purposes. Their sister track, Charlotte Motor Speedway, is losing 41,000 seats.(wgxa.tv), see image of the CMS construction at Slugger Labbe's Twitter.(12-10-2014)
UPDATE: Alterations announced this week are in line with a trend of tracks removing seats. Charlotte, after removing 41,000 seats this winter, will be down to permanent seating of 89,000 in 2015, a startlingly low capacity considering its location in NASCAR's epicenter. But it's par for the course. Atlanta is removing 17,000 seats to get down to 75,000; Dover is removing 17,500 seats to get down to 95,500; and Daytona is removing its backstretch grandstands of 46,500 next spring to go to 101,500 seats. Other tracks on the circuit have made similar changes.
At its peak in 2007, International Speedway Corp.'s 12 major tracks had 1.1 million grandstand seats (not including suites). After the Daytona renovation, ISC will be down 30 percent to approximately 761,000 seats.
In 2013 alone, the following ISC tracks cut seats: Talladega (from 108,000 to 78,000), Richmond (91,000 to 71,000), Chicagoland (69,000 to 55,500), Michigan (84,000 to 71,000), California (81,000 to 68,000), Darlington (60,000 to 58,000) and Homestead (56,000 to 46,000). Any additional cuts likely will be revealed when its annual report comes out in January.
With the current Charlotte and Atlanta reductions, Speedway Motorsports has cut 101,000 seats (12 percent) across seven of its tracks since 2009, although it added 38,000 at Kentucky when it moved a Cup race to that track. SMI, which includes suites in its capacity estimates, cut capacity in 2013 at Atlanta (from 98,000 to 92,000), Bristol (158,000 to 153,000) and New Hampshire (96,000 to 95,000).
Dover listed 135,000 seats in 2009, so its reduction in recent years is 29 percent. At one point, it reduced 20,000 seats by replacing the current seats with wider ones for more fan comfort, a move done by many racetracks. Indianapolis and Pocono, privately owned, do not have to report their capacities, but Indianapolis also has removed seats.(see full article at the Sporting News)(12-11-2014)

Bristol offering Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals: Holiday shoppers are encouraged to add Bristol Motor Speedway to their Black Friday shopping schedules as the World's Fastest Half-Mile offers commemorative, autographed tickets to those purchasing at BMS on Friday, Nov. 28. Richard Childress, Tony Stewart and Carl Edwards are just a few of the notable NASCAR personalities whose autograph customers can choose from after securing or verifying their seats inside the iconic short track. Black Friday shoppers purchasing tickets on site also will receive a 25% discount at the Speedway World Store, making it easy to fill Christmas stockings with coveted NASCAR driver and Bristol gear. For those who prefer to do their holiday shopping on line this holiday season, Bristol Motor Speedway brings back a Cyber Monday offering. Visit BristolMotorSpeedway.com for details on the Food City 500 and IRWIN Tools Night Race ticket offers. Ticket prices for the April 19 Food City 500 are as low as $64 with pricing for kids 15 and under beginning at $32. Weekend packages are also available, starting at $89 for adults and $49 for youth.(BMS)(11-26-2014)

Bristol Motor Speedway asks Military Ticketholders to add name: The Bristol Motor Speedway (BMS) staff is grateful for the sacrifices made by all United States military personnel and honor their service each year during pre-race ceremonies. In observance of Veterans Day and in an effort to further recognize BMS ticketholders who have served or are currently serving in the Armed Forces, a list of self-identified military personnel has been added to the Speedway's website. If you or one of your loved ones is a Bristol ticketholder and current or former member of the military, please visit BristolMotorSpeedway.com/VeteransDay and add their name to our list of honorees.(BMS)(11-11-2014)

Ford Speedway in Lights at Bristol: Presented by Bristol Chapter of Speedway Children's Charities, Ford Speedway in Lights Powered By TVA is the largest holiday light show in the South. Speedway in Lights benefits programs and organizations supporting the needs of children in the Tri-Cities region by producing one of the largest holiday light shows in the country. A route of approximately four miles and two millions lights provides entertainment for thousands and raises money for children charities.
WHERE: Enter at Bristol Dragway Entrance on Highway 394 NOT on Volunteer Parkway
WHEN: Friday, November 14 - Saturday, January 3; 6-10 pm nightly
COST/ADMISSION:
Cars - $12 Sunday through Thursday; $15 Friday and Saturday
Activity vans - $20 (each night)
Buses - $85 each night IMPORTANT INFORMATION: CHANGE TO ENTRANCE! A new entrance/route (introduced in 2012) for the event gives visitors a fresh look at Ford Speedway In Lights as they begin their drive-through trek at the Bristol Dragway entrance, on Hwy. 394; NOT the South entrance of the Speedway on Volunteer Parkway. More info at speedwayinlights.org.(11-9-2014)

Bristol IRWIN Tools Night Race driver intro songs: It's tradition at Bristol Motor Speedway for drivers to select a song to be played when they are introduced before the race. Here is the list of driver songs as given to Motor Racing Network. Drivers are listed in alphabetical order (based on last name) with their song and the performer.
Justin Allgaier ... "My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark" by Fall Out Boy
AJ Allmendinger ... "Here Comes the Boom" by Nelly
Aric Almirola ... "Hot Dog!" by They Might Be Giants
Marcos Ambrose ... "Highway to Hell'' by AC/DC
Michael Annett ... "Bernie Dance (Bernie Song)
Greg Biffle ... "Changes" by David Bowie
Dave Blaney ... "7 Nation Army" by White Stripes
Alex Bowman ... "Gangsta's Paradise" by Coolio
Clint Bowyer ... "Whiskey River" by Willie Nelson
Jeff Burton ... "Bartender Song (Sittin' at a Bar)'' by Rehab and Hank Williams Jr.
Kurt Busch ... "Outlaws Like Me" by Justin Moore
Kyle Busch ... "Rowdy Busch"
Landon Cassill ... "Introducing the Icon" by Riff Raff
Austin Dillon ... "The Stroke" by Billy Squire
Dale Earnhardt Jr. ... "Mountain Song" by Jane's Addiction
Carl Edwards ... "Let the Night Roll" by Justin Moore
David Gilliland ... "Small Town Throwdown" by Brantley Gilbert and Justin Moore
Jeff Gordon ... "Moonshine in the Truck" by Brad Paisley
Denny Hamlin ... "0 to 100" by Drake
Kevin Harvick ... "Pass a Beer" by Jake Owen
Jimmie Johnson ... "Let the Good Times Roll" by the Cars
Kasey Kahne ... "Tubthumping" by Chumbawamba
Matt Kenseth ... "1000 HP" by Godsmack
Brad Keselowski ... "Turn Down for What'' by DJ Snake & Lil Jon
Kyle Larson ... "Good Times, Bad Times" by Led Zepplin
Joey Logano ... "O Fortuna"
Michael McDowell ... "Thrive" by Casting Crowns
Jamie McMurray ... "Wild Side" by Motley Crue
Casey Mears ... "American Kids" by Kenny Chesney
Paul Menard ... "The Trooper" by Iron Maiden
Brett Moffitt ... "Crazy Train" by Ozzy Osbourne
Ryan Newman ... "Let the Night Roll" by Justin Moore
Danica Patrick ... "Somethin' Bad" by Miranda Lambert and Carrie Underwood
David Ragan ... "Bad Boys" by Inner Circle
Ricky Stenhouse Jr. ... "Ain't Going Down Til the Sun Comes Up'' by Garth Brooks
David Stremme ... "Ready Set Roll" by Chase Rice
Martin Truex Jr. ... "Outsiders" by Eric Church
Ryan Truex ... "Dammit" by Blink 182
Brian Vickers ... "Beast of Burden" by the Rolling Stones
Cole Whitt ... "Tell the World" by Lacrae
Josh Wise ... "The Distance" by Cake
JJ Yeley ... "Welcome to the Jungle" by Guns and Roses
No information available for Reed Sorenson.(MRN / NASCAR.com)(8-24-2014)

Joey Logano wins at Bristol: #22-Joey Logano won the IRWIN Tools Night Race Sprint Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway for his 3rd win of the season, first at Bristol and 6th career win.
#2-Keselowski finished 2nd followed by #20-Kenseth, #48-Johnson, #41-Busch, #17-Stenhouse Jr., #99-Edwards, #1-McMurray, #27-Menard and #16-Biffle.
Pole winner #4-Harvick led 75 laps and finished 11th.
#24-Gordon (3 wins) finished 16th and keeps the points lead, 27 points over #88-Earnhardt Jr. who was involved in a wreck on lap 160 and finished 39th.
#24-Gordon leads the Chase Grid with 3 wins being 1st in points followed by #88-Earnhardt Jr with 3 wins, 2nd in points.
There were 16 lead changes among 9 drivers. There were 9 cautions for 64 yellow flag laps.
The average speed was 92.965mph.
See unofficial race results, awards, money won, laps led, cautions and more on the Unofficial Bristol Race Results page (pdf) and check out the Bristol Penalty Report (pdf) and Bristol Lap Summary Report (pdf).
See OFFICIAL race results & points standings on the Official Bristol Race & Points Report (pdf).(8-23-2014)

Bristol announces new April race date for the Food City 500: Fans of Bristol Motor Speedway have been heard. After considerable fan feedback, Bristol Motor Speedway announced Friday the 2015 Food City 500 weekend will move to April 17-19. Since 2005, the Food City 500 has been held in March. "This is a great day in the history of Bristol Motor Speedway thanks to our passionate fans," said Jerry Caldwell, BMS general manager and executive vice president. "Bruton and Marcus Smith and NASCAR heard the relentless plea for a true spring race date. The fans can look forward to a 2015 landmark celebration April 17-19 in Thunder Valley." Food City has become synonymous with NASCAR racing in the region with its sponsorship of two of the sport's most popular races, the Food City 500 and Food City 300 at Bristol Motor Speedway. As the second longest running sponsor in NASCAR, Food City has also contributed more than $500,000 to local organizations through its annual Family Race Night events. "We are thrilled NASCAR, Mike Helton and Bruton Smith responded to the race fans," said K-VA-T President and CEO Steve Smith. "Bristol is a special place. The April date better accommodates our guests traveling in their RVs from northern climates and provides our loyal Bristol fans with the best possible Food City 500 experience. We can't wait for April 2015!" Tickets for the 2015 April race weekend are available now. For information on reserving your seat at Bristol, visit BristolTix.com or call (855) 580-5525.(BMS)(8-22-2014)

Some possible 2015 Sprint Cup schedule changes UPDATE2: Jim Noble of ESPN/SiriusXM/PRN tweeted Monday evening, "The Southern 500 at Darlington (SC) Raceway will return to its traditional Labor Day weekend date [Sunday, Sept 6th] when NASCAR announces the 2015 Sprint Cup schedule, perhaps as early as this weekend. Atlanta Motor Speedway - which has raced on Labor Day weekend since 2009 - will have its lone Sprint Cup race weekend moved earlier in the season to week #2 - Sunday, March 1, 2015. One other notable change will be the Bristol (TN) spring weekend -- often plagued by weather issues in March, Bristol successfully lobbied for a later date, and will now hold its spring Cup race on Sunday, April 19, 2015."(8-19-2014)
UPDATE According to a source who works inside the sport, the date of the 2015 NASCAR spring Sprint Cup race at Bristol Motor Speedway will be moved to Sunday, April 19. Due to the unpredictable weather in the Bristol area and lackluster attendance, BMS officials have long lobbied NASCAR for a change away from current date of March 16. Lynsey Wilson, communications manager of Bristol Motor Speedway and Dragway, did not confirm any schedule alteration when reached late Monday. "Conversations are ongoing and once details are finalized, we will release our 2015 plans," said Wilson, who declined further comment. NASCAR officials are expected to officially announce the full 2015 Sprint Cup schedule soon. That announcement could come this weekend during the IRWIN Tools Night Race at BMS. The source also said the Southern 500 Darlington race date will shift back to its traditional Labor Day weekend while the Atlanta race will move to the second week of the season on March 1. During an Aug. 5 interview, BMS general manager Jerry Caldwell expressed his desire for a switch in the spring race date. There was no statement from Helton on Monday night and Caldwell did not comment.(Bristol Herald Courier)
UPDATE2: Two sources well connected with NASCAR confirmed the news Tuesday to the Morning News but did not want to be identified. Darlington Raceway president Chip Wile said Tuesday the track "doesn't respond to rumors."(Morning News)(8-20-2014)

Bristol offering incentives for ticket renewals: Fans visiting Bristol Motor Speedway will be greeted with amazing incentives to renew their tickets for 2015. If fans renew ANY ticket for 2015 they get the following:
"Winner's Celebration Access (After the IRWIN Tools Night Race, exclusive event where we toast the winner of the race on the front stretch. Music, gifts and more)
"A choice of a 31 Piece Driver Set or a Vintage NASCAR Double Album featuring songs sung by Dale Earnhardt, Bill Elliott, Cale Yarbourough, Bobby Allison and more (1 gift for every two tickets renewed)
"A Chance to meet Dale Jr. before the Night Race. 10 Lucky Fans and a guest will be able to meet Dale Jr., get an autographed hat and a picture with Dale Jr. prior to the IRWIN Tools Night Race. The winning fans will also be able to submit a question to Dale Jr. and three will be chosen to be announced to the crowd inside Bristol Motor Speedway. Every ticket renewed is an entry and fans can visit the Guest Relations office inside the O. Bruton Smith Building for Alternate means of entry information.(BMS)(8-17-2014)

Wynonna and The Big Noise headline pre-race at Bristol: The robust sounds and dynamic vocals of Wynonna and The Big Noise spice up an already powerful Built Ford Tough Pre-Race. Spirits soar and tensions mount during the Saturday night show as The University of Tennessee's Pride of the Southland Band fires up fans with their rendition of Rocky Top, and for the third consecutive year, Michael Buffer readies drivers to rumble after entrances accompanied by music of their own selection. The Aug. 23 performance marks the five-time Grammy winner's first show at Bristol Motor Speedway, but not her first visit to the Last Great Colosseum. BMS officials are proud to include the legendary country artist among its fans and growing list of talent performing during the IRWIN Tools Night Race week.(BMS)(8-12-2014)

Dierks Bentley headlines Bristol Truck Series Post-Race Concert: Bristol Motor Speedway revs up Wednesday night (Aug. 20), adding a full-length concert by award-winning country music star Dierks Bentley to its already competitive racing doubleheader. The newly announced tripleheader - the Bush's Beans 150 Whelen Modfied race, NASCAR Camping World Truck Series UNOH 200 presented by ZLOOP and Dierks Bentley concert - provides an unforgettable race-day experience at an unbeatable price. Bentley, who is currently on the road headlining his 2014 RISER TOUR, is no stranger to motorsports. He performed at the 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Awards Banquet, has attended NASCAR races at BMS and recently revamped his number-one single "Sideways" for NASCAR on FOX. This is his first solo concert at the Last Great Colosseum.(BMS)(7-30-2014)

Tennessee's Pride of the Southland Band to Return to Bristol: One of East Tennessee's favorite tunes once again reverberates through The Last Great Colosseum this August as the University of Tennessee's Pride of the Southland Band returns for the IRWIN Tools Night Race. Set to ignite the crowd before one of the most popular races on the NASCAR circuit, 100 performers from the prestigious 330-member band treat guests to their well-known rendition of "Rocky Top" as part of Bristol's pre-race show. Excited to enhance fan experience through the band's inclusion in pre-race, Bristol Motor Speedway officials look forward to the group's repeat performance.(BMS)(4-27-2014)

Bristol Driver Intro Songs: For several years, Sprint Cup drivers have chosen the song that is played when they are introduced to the crowd prior to the Food City 500 at Bristol Motor Speedway. Here is this year's list for all drivers:
#1-Jamie McMurray: Crazy Train/Ozzy Osborne
#2-Brad Keselowski: Everlong/Foo Fighters
#3-Austin Dillon: Cowboy/DJ Silver
#4-Kevin Harvick: Happy/Pharrell Williams
#5-Kasey Kahne: Bottom's Up/Brantley Gilbert
#7-Michael Annett: Standing Outside the Fire/Garth Brooks
#9-Marcos Ambrose: This Is How We Roll/Florida Georgia Line
#10-Danica Patrick: Timber/Ke$ha & Pitbull
#11-Denny Hamlin: My Name Is/Eminem
#13-Casey Mears: Do I Wanna Know?/Arctic Monkeys
#14-Tony Stewart: Back in the Saddle Again/Aerosmith
#15-Clint Bowyer: Boys Round Here/Blake Shelton
#16-Greg Biffle: Good Times, Bad Times (remix)/Godsmack
#17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr.: The South/The Cadillac Three (featuring Florida Georgia Line and Dierks Bentley)
#18-Kyle Busch: Can't Hold Us/Macklemore
#20-Matt Kenseth: Guitars, Gangsters & Cadillac Blood/Volbeat
#22-Joey Logano: Fuel/Metallica
#23-Alex Bowman: Counting Stars (Longarms Dubstep Remix)/One Republic
#24-Jeff Gordon: Best Day of My Life/American Authors
#26-Cole Whitt: God's Not Dead/Newsboys
#27-Paul Menard: Clean My Wounds/Corrosion of Conformity
#30-Parker Kligerman: Don't Push Me/50 Cent
#31-Ryan Newman: Down Home Boys/Cole Swindell
#32-Travis Kvapil: Ace of Spades/Motorhead
#33-Timmy Hill: Thunderstruck/AC/DC
#34-David Ragan: C'mon N' Ride It (The Train)/Quad City DJ's
#35-David Reutimann: Still Counting/Volbeat
#36-Reed Sorenson: Man of the Year/School Boy Q
#38-David Gilliland: Strokers Theme/Charlie Daniels Band
#40-Landon Cassill: Money in the Bank/Lil Scrappy ft. Young buck
#41-Kurt Busch: Ring of Fire/Johnny Cash
#42-Kyle Larson: Kashmir/Led Zeppelin
#43-Aric Almirola: Outsiders/Eric Church
#47-AJ Allmendinger: Bouncin' Back (Bumpin' Me Against the Wall)/Mystikal
#48-Jimmie Johnson: Radioactive/Imagine Dragons
#51-Justin Allgaier: War of Change/Thousand Foot Krutch
#55-Brian Vickers: Beast of Burden/Rolling Stones
#66-Joe Nemechek: Beer With Jesus/Thomas Rhett
#78-Martin Truex Jr.: Flyin Down a Back Road/Justin Moore
#83-Ryan Truex: Crave You (Adventure Club Remix)/Flight Facilities
#88-Dale Earnhardt Jr.: Man of Action/Matthew Good Band
#95-Michael McDowell: I Am/Crowder
#98-Josh Wise: Intro/The XX
#99-Carl Edwards: Kickstart My Heart/Motley Crue
(NASCAR.com)(3-17-2014)

Co-Grand Marshals Announced For Food City 500: While not scheduled to meet in the infield at Bristol Motor Speedway until September 10, 2016, the coaches for two of the nation's tradition-rich football programs get together at the start/finish line for the March 16 Food City 500. University of Tennessee football coach Butch Jones and Virginia Tech head man Frank Beamer, whose teams meet in the Battle at Bristol in two years, serve as co-Grand Marshals for NASCAR's Sprint Cup stop in Bristol this week. Beamer served as honorary starter for the 2005 Food City 500 and Jones was in Bristol last spring as grand marshal. Tickets for Sunday's Food City 500 start at just $70 and weekend packages for all three races are available for as low as $89. Fans may call (855) 580-5525 or visit BristolTix.com to experience this spring's battle on the high banks of the Last Great Colosseum.(BMS)(3-11-2014)

Park and Ride options at Bristol: Decisions for race fans and guests of Bristol Motor Speedway on where to park and how to get in and out are a bit easier to make with park and ride shuttle options in the region. Two options, one in Tennessee and one in Virginia, give fans various choices to let someone else do the driving to the NASCAR events at Bristol Motor Speedway March 15 and 16. Current locations are: Sullivan Central High School at Tennessee Exit 66 -- 113 Shipley Ferry Road in Blountville, Tenn., -- and Sugar Hollow Park in the Exit 7 area of Bristol, Va. At least one more location at Exit 7 is expected to be added soon. "This is an expansion of the program we have had for two or three years now," said Jerry Caldwell, executive vice president and general manager of Bristol Motor Speedway. "One of the main questions new fans ask is 'where do I park,' and one of the main issues we have heard from locals is traffic. By offering various locations in the area, guests can let someone else deal with parking and traffic. They just ride.". See complete route information at Bristol Motor Speedway's website.(3-6-2014)

Colt Ford headlines Food City 500 Pre-Race concert: Known for an eclectic blend of music centered around small town Saturday nights, fishing from the tailgate and mom's home cooking, Colt Ford's brand of music embodies Southern culture and this March his sound collides with another Southern tradition when he plays on Bristol's Food City 500 pre-race stage. For his part, Ford is eager to rock the Food City 500 pre-race stage. Fans wanting front row seats for the party can upgrade their Sunday ticket to a SuperPass, which includes stage-side access to the pre-race concert and Bristol's famed driver intros as well as a self-guided track tour, for just $80 or $40 for iBelong members. Tickets options are also still available for the March race weekend, with Sunday tickets starting at just $65 or $99 for weekend packages. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (855) 580-5525 or visit www.BristolTix.com.(3-2-2014)

Food City & Bristol announce extension: The March 2014 pilgrimage to the Last Great Colosseum just became more affordable for season ticket holders as Bristol Motor Speedway and Food City announce a five-year partnership extension and unveil the new "Fuel for Fans" program. The program loads two Food City Gas-N-Go Fuel Bucks stops on the iBelong Membership card/Food City ValuCard of every iBelong member and BMS season ticket holder, good for 15 cents off each gallon of gas up to 20 gallons at all Food City Gas-N-Go locations. Additionally, Food City is offering a third discounted fill-up to iBelong members who spend more than $15 at one of their stores prior to March 16.
"This latest extension takes the partnership between Food City and Bristol Motor Speedway beyond the 25-year mark, and when a relationship lasts that long you begin to view each other as more than business associates. You become friends and family," said BMS General Manager Jerry Caldwell. "We also view our season ticket holders as members of the BMS family as well and are committed to elevating their visit any way we can. They remain dedicated, even through recent economic challenges, and this is one way we, along with our partners at Food City, can express our appreciation."
Food City officials also see the program as a means of honoring BMS fans for their continued loyalty. "We are pleased to announce the extension of our relationship with Bristol Motor Speedway and offer the Fuel for Fans program as a way to thank those who have faithfully supported this longtime partnership," said Steve Smith, president and CEO of K-VAT. "It is the mission of Food City to provide value to our customers as they shop for the staples of everyday life, and this program allows us to extend that value to those who support us both in our stores and at the Speedway."
Tickets to experience a full season of battles inside the Last Great Colosseum tickets start at just $160 and offer ticket holders more than $300 in savings. For information on the Fuel for Fans program and how you can belong to the BMS family, visit www.bristolmotorspeedway.com or call (855) 580-5525.(BMS)(2-8-2104)

University of Tennessee announces Battle at Bristol Ticket Allotment is gone: University of Tennessee fans took advantage of the opportunity to be part of college football's biggest game ever, as The University of Tennessee department of athletics today announced all of the school's initial ticket allotment has been reserved for the Battle at Bristol, between UT and Virginia Tech, Saturday, Sept. 10, 2016 at Bristol Motor Speedway. "We knew when we came to an agreement with the schools this was going to attract a tremendous amount of attention," said Jerry Caldwell, executive vice president and general manager of Bristol Motor Speedway. "But the buzz that continues since the announcement in October, the enthusiasm of the fan bases from the schools, and the reaction to securing tickets, has exceeded the expectations we had." The initial allotment for Tennessee for the "Battle at Bristol" was 40,000 tickets and deposits for 35,000 of those seats have been secured by the school. The remaining 5,000 tickets under of the allotment will be allocated to UT students in the weeks leading up to the game in 2016. "The overwhelming response to the Battle at Bristol speaks to the passion of our amazing Tennessee fans," said Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Dave Hart. "Our fans' excitement and their strong and immediate response to the Battle at Bristol game, which is still 31 months away, says everything you need to know about the most devoted fan base in the nation." Virginia Tech has yet to open reservations for its ticket allotment. For more information on the Battle at Bristol game between Tennessee and Virginia Tech, please visit www.battleatbristol.com.(BMS)(1-29-2014)

Bristol August race tickets on sale: Consistently named a can't-miss event by NASCAR drivers and racing enthusiasts alike, the excitement of an August race weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway is unparalleled and starting this Wednesday fans can ensure they don't miss a minute of the 2014 summer brawl inside the bullring. For as little as $99, guests are guaranteed an action-packed experience that includes watching NASCAR's future starts battle on the high banks during Friday night's Food City 250 and cheering their favorite modern-day gladiator to victory under the lights of the Last Great Colosseum at Saturday's IRWIN Tools Night Race. Several tickets package options are available for those ready to reserve one of the most sought-after tickets in motorsports, so beginning Wednesday, Dec. 11 visist bristoltix.com or call (855) 580-5525 for complete pricing information or to purchase your August weekend tickets.(BMS)(12-11-2013)

Bristol Cyber Monday offer returns:Fans of one of NASCAR's most popular events have a chance Monday, December 2, to reserve their seat for the IRWIN Tools Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway in a Cyber Monday deal that offers a one-day opportunity to purchase an unlimited number of single day tickets nearly two months ahead of the scheduled sale date. Starting at midnight on December 2 and ending at 11:59 p.m. that same day, fans can visit bristolmotorspeedway.com to purchase their Night Race tickets just in time to gift friends and family with the Bristol experience this Christmas. Tickets are available in most grandstands, and purchases are non-refundable. Fans are encouraged to go online and take advantage of the pre-sale availability. Those without internet access may call (855) 580-5525.(BMS)(11-27-2013)

Date for Bristol Motor Speedway 2016 college football game announced: Bristol Motor Speedway, known as the "Last Great Colosseum", today announced plans to transform the legendary Speedway into the world's largest football stadium for the inaugural Battle at Bristol, College Football's Biggest EVER game to be held on Saturday, September 10, 2016. The event will feature a border battle between the Virginia Tech Hokies and Tennessee Volunteers and is projected to set the NCAA record for highest single-game attendance. See full press release and images at .(10-14-2013)

College Football Game to be played at Bristol Motor Speedway: The Tennessee Volunteers and Virginia Tech Hokies have agreed to play a football game in 2016 at Bristol Motor Speedway, where a record 160,000 fans could be in attendance, according to a source. This is an event that had been talked about for years. It is unknown exactly where the playing field will be placed relative to the track and infield, which is composed entirely of asphalt. The Bristol Motor Speedway location makes it ideal for fans from both teams to get to. It is unknown where on the schedule the game will fit. This September, Michigan announced a record crowd of 115,109 for its defeat of Notre Dame, breaking a record from 2011, the previous time the teams played at Michigan Stadium.(ESPN)(10-9-2013)

Bristol ticket purchasers can get racing print: With 11 laps to go in the 2013 IRWIN Tools Night Race, Kasey Kahne moved his car to the inside of race leader Matt Kenseth, and stuck there for several laps as the two engaged in a battle worthy of the Last Great Colosseum. While Kenseth ultimately prevailed at the stripe, the race's waning laps provided NASCAR fans with breath-catching, edge-of-your-seat action on par with the famed bullring's legendary reputation, and thanks to renowned motorsports and live art painter Bill Patterson guests reserving their seats for a 2014 trip to the World's Fastest Half Mile can own an indelible image of this year's Bristol battle. Fans wanting to harness the power of the 2013 IRWIN Tools Night Race and guarantee they don't miss a minute of next year's Bristol brawls can reserve their 2014 season tickets now by clicking here or calling (855) 580-5525. Those renewing by October 23rd not only receive a poster of Patterson's commemorative painting as long as supplies last but are also entered to win an all-expense paid trip to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Championship Week in Las Vegas.(BMS)(9-13-2013)

BMS to introduce its own radio style scanner station: History will be made this week in Bristol - and not just on the race track. That's because Bristol Motor Speedway will introduce its own scanner station this week. Visitors to the track will be able to listen to the radio-style station through either a scanner or through a mobile app. Some of the content that will be found on the scanner station include updates on traffic and weather, pre and post-race shows, interviews, driver appearances and questions from social media. The radio will be available on scanner frequency 454.5000, or mobile users can download the Bristol LIVE app.(Kingsport Times News)(8-24-2013)

Bristol Battles as Seen Through the Eyes of NASCAR Artist Sam Bass: NASCAR artist Sam Bass is known for his work capturing the emotion and historic moments in our sport. As he prepares to head to Bristol Motor Speedway, the program cover he designed for them is no different. "Bristol has such a rich history of great rivalries over the years. My vision was to take the great "Bristol Battles" in recent years and put the viewer of my art right in the middle of it all," Bass explained of his thoughts for the August 2013 night race at Bristol Motor Speedway program cover. Explaining his vision for the 2013 design, Bass said, "I used the famous Tony Stewart helmet toss at Matt Kenseth's car from last August as the central focus. The viewer becomes the umpire watching Tony throw a perfect strike in a packed stadium. In the night sky, high above the modern day colosseum, are the portraits of spirited competitors Dale Earnhardt and Terry Labonte along with Jeff Gordon and Rusty Wallace as they light up the moon. Images of their on track battles, pierce the night sky."
"This is one of my favorite Bristol paintings ever," Bass said exuberantly. As he prepares for a busy schedule at Bristol, Bass shared his love for the track. "Bristol is like no other track on the circuit. I love standing on pit row, right before the race. The sense of electricity in the air, the night sky, the lights bouncing off the cars, the flashes from all the cameras in the grandstands...You just know that the sparks are about to fly and it is truly one of the greatest moments in NASCAR!"(140Buzz), see image of cover at Sam Bass Faceook page.(8-24-2013)

Bristol Transporter Parade to be held on Thursday, August 22nd: Led by grand marshal, 91-year-old World War II veteran Leo Walsh, the 16th annual Ford Transporter Parade offers fans the chance to witness NASCAR's heavy haulers carry their favorite race cars toward the Last Great Colosseum. On Thursday, August 22, thousands will line the 10-mile parade route to watch the cars arrive in style. Starting at 9:00pm/et from the Bristol Mall and culminating with drivers expertly parking their rig inside the World's Fastest Half Mile, children from the Make-A-Wish Foundation and Children's Miracle Network as well as veterans from the Wounded Warrior Project accompany the transporters on this year's journey. Prior to the start of the parade, fans can visit the Bristol Mall parking lot for an up-close look at the haulers and meet those who drive the mammoth machines. Those wishing to watch the rigs reach their final destination can do so from the BMS grandstands, gaining access through Gate 10 at 9:00pm/et. Tickets are available for all three nights of racing at BMS in August. Race week begins Wednesday, Aug. 21 with a doubleheader featuring the UNOH 200 Camping World Truck Series race and the TitanRoof 150 Whelen Modified event. Tickets for the IRWIN Tools Night race and the NNS and Truck Series races by visiting www.bristoltix.com or call (855) 580-5525.(BMS)(8-20-2013)

Hank Williams Jr. Headlines Bristol Motor Speedway Pre-Race Show: Intensity tends to get turned up a notch when all the rowdy friends show up at Bristol Motor Speedway in August, and it is just got a little rowdier. Guests at the Last Great Colosseum do not have to wait for the green flag to drop on the IRWIN Tools Night Race for rollicking good time; August 24 the tone is set early with powerhouse performer Hank Williams, Jr., rocking the pre-race concert presented by the NRA. With an array of familiar hits, the Grammy-award winning artist is primed to excite the crowd before one of NASCAR's most-anticipated events. Tickets for the IRWIN Tools Night race and the NNS and Truck Series races by visiting www.bristoltix.com or call (855) 580-5525.(BMS)(8-20-2013)

BMS Fan-Friendly Lodging partners taking shape: Guests attending the IRWIN Tools Night Race activities at Bristol Motor Speedway in August have various lodging options, including pricing from $60 to $80 and a dozen offering accommodations for under $110 a night. "We continue to try to find ways to make the Bristol experience more pleasurable for our guests," said BMS General Manager Jerry Caldwell. "That goes from amenities on our property to finding lodging partners to offers breaks on rates and night minimums. We work to find partners closer to Bristol Motor Speedway, but the ones we have are located in areas to accommodate our guests coming from nearly any direction on the map. Many have gone beyond rates and night minimums too with some adding shuttle service or breakfast and other options." This list, with properties in Tennessee, Virginia and North Carolina, not only includes various options in pricing by style of property as well. Chain and privately-owned hotels, cabins, lodges and even an historic Inn make up the list for August. BMS officials encourage guest to research the alternatives to choose which one best fits their needs. For more information on the participating properties go to: bristolmotorspeedway.com. For more information about tickets for the race, please contact the BMS ticket office toll-free at 1-866-415-4158 or at bristoltix.com.(BMS)(8-16-2013)

Bristol launches Kids Club: With more families making the trip to enjoy events at the Last Great Colosseum, Bristol Motor Speedway officials announced the launch of The Bristol Kids Club - expanding several initiatives already in place. A membership club for youth 13-and-under, admission is free for those wanting to be a part of the latest BMS project. The club is supplemented by its own space on the Bristol Motor Speedway web site at http://www.bristolmotorspeedway.com/kids/. The section features games and driver pages as well as coloring pages for younger ages. Bristol Motor Speedway officials made the first major adjustment two years ago with age-based ticket pricing. That was followed in 2012 by the development of a youth outreach programs during race weekends with activity areas exclusively for the younger fans. The first Kids Zone proved so popular a second one was added.(BMS)(8-7-2013)

Speedway Motorsports sees revenues, ticket sales decelerate: The numbers don't lie. Speedway Motorsports Inc., parent company of Las Vegas Motor Speedway, has watched revenues, including ticket sales, drop annually for five years. Race event-related revenue at Speedway Motorsports' eight NASCAR tracks has also dropped each year for the past five years except 2011. The venues staging NASCAR races are in markets such as Las Vegas, Atlanta, Charlotte, San Francisco and Dallas. For the first quarter of this year, Concord, N.C.-based Speedway Motorsports continued to show sluggish revenue results. Total revenues for the first three months of 2013 were $84.2 million, compared to $84.8 million for the same three-month period in 2012. At the Speedway Motorsports tracks, admissions revenues dropped from $188 million in 2008 to $116 million in 2012. Event-related revenue also dropped, falling from $211 million in 2008 to $151 million in 2012. In all, total Speedway Motorsports annual revenues have plummeted from nearly $611 million in 2008 to $490 million in 2012. The one revenue category that saw an uptick was in NASCAR broadcasting rights revenue, which increased from $168 million in 2008 to $192 million in 2012. That's because an eight-year NASCAR broadcasting rights deal provides annual 3 percent increases through 2014, so Speedway Motorsports expects $199 million in 2013. At Speedway Motorsports' eight NASCAR tracks, total permanent seating is about 900,000, with 832 luxury suites. Las Vegas Motor Speedway has 123,000 seats and 102 suites, and sits on 1,030 acres. Speedway Motorsports has discovered that many fans are buying tickets closer to race dates, so the company has increased promotional campaigns to motivate fans to buy tickets earlier and renew season ticket deals.(Las Vegas Review Journal)(7-1-2013)

NHRA racer tests at Bristol: Accustomed to streaking down straightaways at speeds in excess of 300 mph, Top Fuel driver Antron Brown tested his command of left turns Friday at Bristol Motor Speedway. In town for the NHRA Ford Thunder Valley Nationals at Bristol Dragway, Brown circled the world's fastest half mile in a Dale Jarrett Racing Adventure car that was previously run on the NASCAR Nationwide circuit. Brown was enthusiastic following his 20-lap run but expressed uncertainty about piloting 500 circuits around the half-mile. "That was so much fun," he said. "The car drove great, but it took me a few laps to get the feel for the track and what line to take. This was my second time running laps at Bristol but my first time in a true stock car, and it was an awesome experience. I'm definitely not in round track shape though. I don't know how those guys stay focused for 500 laps."(BMS)(6-15-2013)

Bristol mascots making debut this weekend: Bump and Run, brother and sister raccoons, debut as the official mascots of Bristol Motor Speedway and Dragway prior to this weekend's Food City 500 festivities. Residents of BMS/BD property since the summer of 2011, today is the first time the pair makes an appearance as official representatives of the Speedway at Food City Race Night in Knoxville, Tenn. They are offspring of two other inhabitants of the property affectionately named Thunder and Valley by BMS/BD personnel. The state wild animal of Tennessee since 1971, the raccoons are a fitting symbol for a facility located in the mountains of Northeast Tennessee. Guests are encouraged to look for them, say hello and have their picture taken with Bump and Run.(BMS)(3-15-2013)

Bristol names race officials: Country music icon Charlie Daniels pulls double duty March 17 prior to the start of the Food City 500 at Bristol Motor Speedway. After the multi-platinum, Grammy-winning artist and members of the Charlie Daniels Band perform the pre-race concert, Daniels will lead the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Straight off an appearance in the Super Bowl with San Francisco 49ers, Kingsport, Tenn., native Daniel Kilgore is the Honorary Starter. Kilgore played his high school ball at Dobyns-Bennett and spent his college career at Appalachian State University.
Keeping with the football trend, University of Tennessee head football coach Butch Jones is the Grand Marshal.
Specialist Mary Potts of the 129th Army Band and Tennessee National Guard sings the national anthem Sunday.
Jeff Foxworthy, comedian and host of television's The American Bible Challenge and Are You Smarter Than a Fifth-Grader, is the Grand Marshal for Jeff Foxworthy's Grit Chips 300 on Saturday while Sean McDonough, CEO of Roswell Food Group, is the Honorary Starter.(BMS)(3-14-2013)

Johnson to appear at Bristol Kids Zone: Young fans have the chance to spend some time with five-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Champion Jimmie Johnson when he makes a stop in the Bristol Motor Speedway Kids Zone Sunday, March 17 prior to the Food City 500. Johnson appears in the Kids Zone Sunday morning for a special question-and-answer session with his youngest supporters. During that time, fans 15 and under will receive a Lowe's Build and Grow kit of Johnson's #48 machine to construct (Build and Grow Kits limited to first one hundred children in attendance), as well as a BMS matchbox car. Johnson's appearance is limited to children only, although they may be accompanied by Food City 500 ticket holding parent or guardian. The BMS Kids Zone, located in the North parking lot, will be open Friday 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-2 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on March race weekend.(BMS)(3-10-2013)

More properties join Bristol's lodging program: Six additional properties have joined the Bristol Motor Speedway's Fan-Friendly Lodging Program, giving BMS guests more options when choosing where to stay for the Food City 500 weekend next month. A lodge in Linville Falls, N.C., two hotels in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., and two in Bristol, Tenn., have been added to the list, offering reduced rates and special discounts for race fans. "We said last month when we announced the initial group of participants for 2013 that we expected more properties to join the program before race week and this is evidence of that," said BMS General Manager Jerry Caldwell. "We now have about two dozen properties participating, offering more than 40 different pricing options. We would like to add a few more not only for March but August as well." Now in its third year, the Fan-Friendly Lodging Program identifies properties with reduced rates and nightly minimums to help ease the cost of attending events at Bristol Motor Speedway. It is just one of the more than half-dozen such programs established at BMS in the last three years aimed at adding value to the pilgrimage made by guests to the East Tennessee mountains. Program participants range from chain and privately-owned hotels, cabins, lodges and even an historic Inn which has hosted three former U.S. Presidents. They range in distance from 20 miles to 100 in all different directions in three states to accommodate guests. A full list Fan-Friendly Lodging partners may be found at: bristolmotorspeedway.com. For guests looking for more than a place to stay, there are several ticket options. For more information, please contact the BMS ticket office toll-free at 1-866-415-4158 or at www.bristoltix.com.(BMS)(2-28-2013)

Jeff Foxworthy's Grit Chips sponsoring Spring Bristol Nationwide race: Let's face it, some things just "belong" together. So when Roswell Food Group CEO Sean McDonough saw the chance to pair one of the South's favorite comfort foods with one of the country's favorite snack items, Grit Chips were born. Even better, when his young company was presented with the opportunity to pair their new snack with perhaps the one person who represented the South better than anyone - Jeff Foxworthy's Original Grit Chips became a reality. Taking this idea of great "pairings" one step further, McDonough and his Roswell Food Group have agreed to a four-year deal to host the spring Nationwide race at iconic Bristol Motor Speedway, creating what may be the perfect blend of racing, regionalism and great taste. With more than 250,000 fans set to celebrate St. Patrick's Day and an exciting weekend of racing, it's a good time for folks to plan to be a part of the exciting new Spring tradition that is the "Jeff Foxworthy's Grit Chips 300"(BMS)(2-6-2013)

Bristol Fan-Friendly Lodging partners announced: One of the most recognizable of Bristol Motor Speedway's guest initiative programs takes shape for 2013 with at least three new partners. The Fan-Friendly Lodging Program identifies properties with reduced rates and nightly minimums to help ease the cost of attending events at Bristol Motor Speedway. It is just one of the more than half-dozen such programs established at BMS in the last three years aimed at adding value to the pilgrimage made by guests to the East Tennessee mountains. "When we developed this program more than three years ago, we did not want to limit the definition of lodging properties to just hotels, but any type of facility with accommodations for our guest," said BMS General Manager Jerry Caldwell. "As a result we have chain and privately-owned hotels, cabins, lodges and even an historic Inn which has hosted three former U.S. Presidents. Properties in three states: Tennessee, Virginia and North Carolina, make up the preliminary list for 2013. Caldwell expects more properties to join the program.(BMS)(1-31-2013)

Bristol SuperPass provides access for Driver Intros and Charlie Daniels Band Concert: Attending the 2013 Food City 500 at Bristol? Then take your experience to another level with the Food City 500 Pre-Race SuperPass. Imagine walking the Bristol high banks, being stage-side for the Charlie Daniels Band pre-race concert and being on the track to witness Bristol's highly-popular driver introductions prior to the Food City 500 green flag. It's an opportunity to make your Food City 500 weekend extra special. The Food City 500 Pre-Race SuperPass includes: Self-Guided Track Tour, Food City 500 Pre-Race Concert, and Food City 500 Driver Introductions. Pricing is $80 for Food City 500 ticket holders, and just $40 for Bristol's iBelong season ticket holders. Quantities are limited so call 1.866.415.4158 to reserve your Food City 500 Pre-Race SuperPass.(BMS)(12-21-2012)

"Bristol's 12 Days of Christmas" kicks off Friday: With the holiday upon us, Bristol Motor Speedway gets into the giving spirit as "Bristol's 12 Days of Christmas" giveaway kicks off Friday, Dec. 14. BMS boasts the most loyal and dedicated fans in NASCAR and as a thank you, they have the opportunity to win some great prizes, such as pit passes, autographed items and waving the green flag at Ford Fan Friday qualifying March 15. On Dec. 25, 12 entrants win a hat autographed by 12-time BMS winner Darrell Waltrip, and one of those 12 wins a pair of hot passes for the March 15-17 Food City 500 race weekend. To enter the drawing for the daily giveaway, fans can like the Bristol Motor Speedway Facebook page or visit www.bristolmotorspeedway.com and click on the "Bristol's 12 Days of Christmas" banner at the top of the page. To purchase tickets, please contact the BMS ticket office at its toll free number 1-866-415-4158 or 423-BRISTOL (274-7865). Tickets also may be purchased at www.bristoltix.com.(BMS)(12-14-2012)

Charlie Daniels to perform before Brisol race in March: One of the biggest legends in music brings his hard-driving act to the Last Great Colosseum as the Charlie Daniels Band hits Bristol Motor Speedway in March for Food City 500 pre-race show. Prior to drivers receiving the command to start their engines March 17, the multi-platinum, Grammy-winning artist delivers his special brand of music, invigorating race fans before the green flag falls on one of NASCAR's most exciting events. And he is eager to hit the stage in the Tennessee hills. Special Charlie Daniels ticket packages are available soon.(BMS)(12-8-2012)

NASCAR Artist Sam Bass intoduces Speedway in Lights poster: Sam Bass, NASCAR's most prolific artist, returns to Bristol Motor Speedway this month with another piece of original artwork commemorating Ford Speedway In Lights Powered by TVA. Bass created artwork for last year's 15th edition of Speedway In Lights, the first in the series. This year's poster features Santa and a car on the World's Fastest Half-Mile decked out with a holiday paint scheme. Bass has created hundreds of NASCAR-related artworks featuring the sport's premier drivers. He appears at Speedway In Lights the next three weekends, Dec. 7-8, Dec. 14-15 and Dec. 21-22 in the General Shale Christmas Village in the BMS infield from 6-10 p.m. The SIL posters are $5 each. Bass has other prints and posters available as well. A portion of the proceeds from poster sales benefit the Bristol Chapter of Speedway Children's Charities. Tickets for Ford Speedway In Lights powered by TVA, open nightly 6-10 p.m. through Jan. 5, are available at the BMS gate. Ticket prices for cars are $12 Sunday through Thursday, and $15 Friday and Saturday. Activity van tickets are $20 each night and bus tickets are $85 each night. Both the Johnson Controls Ice Rink ($7 admission/skate rental) and HVAC Chill Hill ($7) are open through Jan. 15. The rink is closed each Monday for maintenance while Chill Hill is closed Monday through Wednesday. For a complete schedule, please visit bristolmotorspeedway.com. For more information concerning Speedway In Lights, please call 423-989-6900.(BMS)(12-7-2012)

Bruton Smith comments on many NASCAR issues: Bruton Smith, the eccentric billionaire whose Speedway Motorsports Inc. owns eight NASCAR tracks, held court in the Texas Motor Speedway media center on Saturday and addressed a wide range of subjects. Here are some selected notes from his lengthy media session:
• Smith said NASCAR needs to work at "making the racing more exciting." He said NASCAR has made some good moves in recent years - notably double-file restarts - but needs to implement additional improvements. Smith's primary suggestion to improve the racing is to slow the cars down and thus make it easier for drivers to make bold moves.
• Races with too many long green-flag runs are not exciting, Smith said, and he suggested a smaller fuel tank would force drivers to make more pit stops. Fuel-mileage races, he said, are "boring, boring, boring." One solution could be a minimum number of cautions per race to serve as TV timeouts.
• Drivers are "maybe not as eager" right now and NASCAR needs more racers who have a "mean streak."
• Despite a decline in TV ratings and attendance, Smith is still supportive of the Chase. He sounded concerned, though, that the playoff drivers get treated with kid gloves.
• There are no plans to make further adjustments to Bristol's racing surface after a drama-filled night race in August.
• No consideration has been given to moving an SMI race to give Las Vegas a second date, Smith said. He remains hopeful NASCAR will someday see the value in rewarding Vegas with another race.
see more at SB Nation.(11-4-2012)

Bristol 2013 events announced: Bristol Motor Speedway once again kicks off NASCAR's 2013 short track season in mid-March and welcomes fans back for its second Sprint Cup event on the fourth Saturday in August. The main event in March, the Food City 500, which is the fourth Sprint Cup race of the year, takes place on St. Patrick's Day, March 17. The IRWIN Tools Night Race, the sport's most popular event, is Aug. 24. NASCAR kicks off the BMS March race weekend with Ford Fan Friday March 15, followed by the Nationwide Series event March 16, and the Food City 500 Sprint Cup race March 17. August race week begins with the UNOH 200 Camping World Truck Series/Whelen Modified Series doubleheader Aug. 21. The Food City 250 Nationwide Series race is Aug. 23, followed by the IRWIN Tools Night Race Aug. 24. Season tickets, as well as March race weekend only tickets, are now available. To purchase tickets, please contact the BMS ticket office at its toll free number 1-866-415-4158 or 423-BRISTOL (274-7865). Tickets also may be purchased at www.bristoltix.com.(BMS)(9-21-2012)

More changes coming to Bristol?: Bruton Smith, chairman and CEO of Speedway Motorsports Inc., has been weighing feedback from fans and is considering additional changes to the racing surface at Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway, one of SMI's marquee properties. Smith, who joined fans in a town-hall-style meeting on Saturday, is considering "tweaking the surface a little bit after watching the replay several more times." Disappointed with attendance at the March race at the .533-mile short track, Smith commissioned a seven-figure grinding project that shaved two degrees of banking from the top lane of the concrete track. Far from eliminating the outside groove as a racing option, the top of the track became the fast way around as the third lane rubbered in. The result was an action-filled race that was well received by a broad consensus of competitors and fans alike. Smith has yet to provide specifics about what additional changes he might consider.(NASCAR Wire Service)(9-3-2012)

Divers find pilots body involved in helicopter crash: Virginia State Police Search & Recovery Team divers with the assistance of the Sullivan County, Tenn. County Sheriff's Office dive team have spent the day searching the waters of South Holston Lake on the Washington County, Va., side for the pilot of the helicopter that crashed late Friday night (August 24, 2012). The divers will continue their search and recovery efforts through the evening. At approximately 10:30 p.m. Friday, a Bell 407 helicopter, owned by Food City, crashed into the lake shortly after takeoff from a nearby residential property. The helicopter had been ferrying passengers from the Bristol Motor Speedway to the residence. The helicopter had just dropped off six passengers and taken off when the crash occurred. Only the pilot, who is male and an East Tennessee resident, was onboard at the time of the crash.
Virginia State Police Search and Recovery Team (SRT) dive members spent much of Friday night searching the wreckage for the pilot. This morning, the SRT brought to the scene a side-scan sonar to use for the search for the pilot. The helicopter did break apart upon impact with the water, with the bulk of the aircraft still submerged in the water. The depths of the water at the crash site ranges from approximately 25 to 40 feet. The FAA responded to the scene Saturday morning to conduct its investigation. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.(WJHL)(8-25-2012)
UPDATE: The Virginia Highlands Airport was flying its U.S. and state flags at half-mast Saturday in memory of a missing pilot, although airport employees declined to comment on the crash of the Bell helicopter registered to the parent company of the Food City grocery stores. The pilot has been missing since the late Friday crash into South Holston Lake, though rescue crews have been searching nearly round the clock since then. According to a 2011 article in the online trade publication Aviation International News, Food City's pilot, Bill Starnes, had amassed at least 26,500 accident-free flying hours when he was recognized in November with a National Business Aviation Association Pilot Flying Safety Award, as K-VA-T's chief pilot.(Bristol Herald Courier)(8-26-2012)
UPDATE2: After three days of continuous searching, the pilot from Friday night's helicopter crash was recovered from South Holston Lake Monday afternoon (Aug. 27, 2012). Using a side-scan sonar, the Virginia State Police Search and Recovery Team (SRT) located the pilot's body in approximately 80 feet of water about 100 yards from the wreckage of the helicopter. Shortly after 3 p.m., his body was recovered from the water and is being transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Roanoke for examination and autopsy. The pilot, Bill R. Starnes, 64, of Blountville, Tenn., was the only one onboard the Bell 407 helicopter Friday night (Aug. 24, 2012) when it crashed into the lake. The helicopter, owned and operated by Food City, had been ferrying passengers from the Bristol Motor Speedway to a private residence bordering South Holston Lake on the Washington County, Va., side. The helicopter had just dropped off six passengers and taken off when the crash occurred at approximately 10:30 p.m..(WJHL. (8-28-2012)

Pilot only person on crashed Food City chopper: Divers and troopers remain on the scene this morning of a helicopter crash in the Washington County, Va., side of the South Holston Lake. The first 911 call came in at 10:33 p.m. Friday (August 24, 2012) about the crash. The helicopter, a Bell 407, crashed into the lake shortly after takeoff from a nearby residential property. The corporate-owned helicopter had been ferrying passengers from the Bristol Motor Speedway to the residence. The helicopter had just dropped off the passengers and taken off when the crash occurred. Only the pilot was onboard at the time of the crash. Virginia State Police Search and Recovery Team (SRT) dive members spent much of the night searching the wreckage for the pilot. This morning, the SRT is bringing to the scene a side-scan sonar to assist with the search for the pilot. The helicopter also remains in the water, upside down. Now that it's daylight, the state police will work to remove the wreckage. The depth of the water at the crash site is approximately 25 feet. The FAA is responding to the scene this morning.(WJHL)(8-25-2012)

More Bristol Motor Speedway Notes:
" In 1961, the year Bristol Motor Speedway opened, its two NASCAR events didn't take place in March and August as they do now, but in July and October. In '62 the races were in April and July and in '63 the spring race moved to March while the second race remained in July. As a matter of fact, the summer race stayed in July through 1975. The spring race moved to May in 1964 and back to March the following year and since then alternated between March and April every year but one (1983 when it was in May) until 2000. The first Bristol race has been contested in March every year since with the exception of 2005 when it was in April. As for the summer race, which became The Night Race when lights were installed in 1978, it actually took place in November in 1975 before it took up residence in August in 1976 where it has remained.
" This year's IRWIN Tools Night Race is Aug. 25. Only five times in the past 52 years has the race been run on Aug. 25 - 1979 (Darrell Waltrip was the winner), 1984 (Terry Labonte), 1990 (Ernie Irvan), 2001 (Tony Stewart) and 2007 (Carl Edwards).
" Brad Keselowski has captured the last two Sprint Cup races at BMS in a Dodge. Before Keselowski won the 2011 IRWIN Tools Night Race, the last driver to win at the World's Fastest Half-Mile in a Dodge was Kurt Busch in March of 2006. Before that one has to go all the way back to 1975 for a Dodge win when Richard Petty swept both events. The only other two drivers to win in a Dodge at BMS were David Pearson (spring 1975) and Bobby Allison (spring 1969, summer 1970).
" The combined margin of victory for the last seven Sprint Cup events at BMS has been by less than one second.
" In In the first Night Race at BMS, on August 26, 1978, Cale Yarborough and runner-up Benny Parsons, both driving Oldsmobiles, were the only two cars on the lead lap. Yarborough won by 16 seconds. Darrell Waltrip finished third, more than a lap down, while Dick Brooks finished fourth and Richard Petty took fifth. Other notables in the race were Richard Childress (seventh), Neil Bonnett (20th) and Bobby Allison (22nd).
" Back in the 60s and 70s, it wasn't unusual for drivers to win races at BMS by more than a lap. The very first race, the 1961 Volunteer 500, saw Jack Smith beat Fireball Roberts by nearly three laps - even with a driver change.
" In April of 1977, Cale Yarborough won the Southeastern 500 by more than seven laps. The last driver to win by at least one lap was Darrell Waltrip, who accomplished the feat in the 1981 Busch 500. Ricky Rudd finished second, the only car one lap down and Terry Labonte was third, the lone car two laps down.
" None of the last 15 Sprint Cup races at BMS have been won by a driver starting outside the top 20. The last driver to win with a worse starting position than 20th was Dale Earnhardt Jr., who won the 2004 Sharpie 500 after starting from the 30th slot. Elliott Sadler owns the distinction of winning from the worst starting position at BMS when he won the 2001 Food City 500 after starting 38th.(BMS PR)(8-25-2012)

IRWIN Tools Set to Honor America's Tradesmen at Bristol and Beyond: With the IRWIN Tools Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway (BMS) just days away, IRWIN Tools has numerous initiatives planned across the country to celebrate tradesmen's skill and contributions, kicking off with a salute to "America's Real Working Hands" at NASCAR's most popular event, and culminating with the second annual National Tradesmen Day on Sept. 21. Throughout race weekend, IRWIN and BMS officials will build awareness for National Tradesmen Day, which is set for Friday, Sept. 21, 2012. In an exclusive opportunity, 300 professional tradesmen from across the country will serve as the IRWIN Tools Night Race Grand Marshals. At the base of the track's turn four, these individuals will give drivers the command to "start your engines." As a special tribute, IRWIN will honor the 23 "Tradesmen of the Track" BMS Operations Team in several ways. More info about the Tradesmen of the Track at nationaltradesmenday.com.(BMS)(8-24-2012)

TDOT sending 'HELP' for race weekend Bristol traffic: The Tennessee Department of Transportation will send special "HELP" to the Tri-Cities this weekend to assist with the heavy traffic expected in conjunction with NASCAR events at Bristol Motor Speedway. Two lime-yellow HELP trucks from Knoxville will patrol the area to assist with incidents to keep traffic moving. The trucks are four-wheel drive and equipped with push bumpers, top-mounted arrow boards, emergency work lights, air compressors, and others tools. Operators can perform a variety of functions from clearing a stalled car off the roadway to changing a flat tire. TDOT maintenance units will be posted throughout the region to assist with any other issues and portable message signs will warn drivers of any possible delays.(Bristol Herald Courier)(8-24-2012)

Girl Scouts hosting Bristol Motor Speedway Overnight: The Girl Scout Council of the Southern Appalachians will host Bristol Motor Speedway Overnight, an event celebrating the 100th anniversary of the organization. The event, which has an overnight component, will last from 4 p.m. Saturday until 8 a.m. Sunday. More than 500 are expected to attend. This family-friendly event is open to all members of the community. It will begin with registration at 4 p.m. in the adjacent Earhart Campground. Next, the BMS gates will open at 5 p.m. From 5-6:30 p.m., a hot dog meal will be served and cost is included in the ticket price. From 6:30-7 p.m., the council will hold an opening ceremony and will then move on to activities/games from 7-9 p.m. Finally, a movie will be shown inside the speedway from 9-11 p.m. At 11 p.m., overnight participants will head to Earhart Campground for a campout, or day guests will head home. Activities inside the speedway include crafts, ride-alongs on the track, photo opportunities in Victory Lane, tours of the luxury suites, relay races, face-painting, games and more. Pre-registration is requested and available online at girlscoutcsa.org/events/227. Tickets are $10 via pre-registration and $15 at the gate for the day-only package. Tickets are $15 via pre-registration, $20 at the gate for the overnight package.(Bristol Herald Courier)(8-24-2012)

New York City fire truck on display through race weekend: A fire truck used by New York City firefighters who lost their lives in the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks will be on display through race weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway. FDNY Rescue 5 will be on display for Food City Race Night Thursday in downtown Bristol, will lead that night's transporter parade, will be used during pre-race activities and be on display at BMS. It is part of the REMEMBRANCE RESCUE PROJECT, an educational nonprofit effort that allows people, especially youngsters, to see, touch and learn from this piece of American history and remember the day when thousands of lives were lost. The project is raffling off the Ultimate Bristol Race Experience with proceeds benefiting the project. Tickets can be purchased at www.wepay.com/stores/therrp or visit the rescue during the race.(Bristol Herald Courier)(8-24-2012)

NASCAR Hauler Parade at Bristol: Bristol Motor Speedway invites you to the 15th annual Ford Transporter Parade, Thursday August 23rd. It's a Bristol tradition and an event you will not want to miss. Featuring the brightly-colored, multi-million dollar machines that haul your favorite Sprint Cup Series cars from track-to-track across America, the parade is an amazing 10-mile trip through Bristol, Tenn., down Volunteer Parkway (Hwy. 11E) to "The Last Great Colloseum" that is Bristol Motor Speedway. The parade leaves Bristol Mall at approximately 9 PM, following Food City Race Night. Be sure to look for the famous fireworks and the Food City big cart along the parade route. More info and the map of the parade route at bristolmotorspeedway.com.(8-22-2012)

Guest Welcome Village to debut at Bristol this week: Race fans visiting Bristol Motor Speedway for its yearly NASCAR weekends know there isn't a more fan-friendly track on the circuit. For the upcoming August Race Week events, the Speedway will extend its attention to the fans with the introduction of the Bristol Guest Welcome Village. The Guest Welcome Village, located beside the orange bridge between BMS and Bristol Dragway on the Dragway side of the creek, is a designated area that provides guests with information, services and entertainment through the race week and weekend. The Village, which will be staffed with personnel who can assist guests with any questions they might have about BMS and its events, features a stage for entertainment and driver and celebrity appearances, concessions, tented areas with cooling stations with misting and cool seats, picnic tables, closed-circuit television, WiFi access, games and more. The BMS Guest Welcome Village opens Wednesday, Aug. 22 at 8 a.m. It will be open at 10 a.m. Aug. 23 and at 8:30 a.m. on both Aug. 24 and Aug. 25. The Village will remain open each race night for one hour following completion of each event.(BMS)(8-21-2012)

Bristol guests to receive flag, coupons courtesy of Outback: Bristol Motor Speedway guests at the Aug. 25 IRWIN Tools Night Race will receive a couple of special rewards from Outback Steakhouse just by finding their seats. As part of the continued involvement in NASCAR racing by the popular restaurant chain, the seat of each guest provides not only a great spot to watch the IRWIN Tools Night Race, but also a flag to wave at the start of the event, as well as a coupon for $10 off at Outback on any two entrees. Outback gives fans a free Bloomin' Onion the Monday immediately following a Sprint Cup race if Ryan Newman finishes among the top 10. To date, Newman, who has one win, has placed among the top 10 eight times this season, giving fans plenty to cheer about on Mondays.(BMS)(8-17-2012)

Pre-Race concert at Bristol: Grammy Award nominated country music artist Jamey Johnson will perform Aug. 25 at the Lawless Pre-Race Concert prior to the start of the IRWIN Tools Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway. This will be the first trip to BMS for the award-winning singer/songwriter, who is set to release his latest album, "Livin' For A Song: A Tribute to Hank Cochran" Oct. 16. "Lawless," billed as a "Western crime film", set in Virginia's Franklin County, stars Shia LaBeouf and will be released at the end of August. Tickets still are available for all three nights of racing at BMS. For more information, please call the BMS ticket office at 1-866-415-4158 or visit www.bristoltix.com.(BMS)(8-10-2012)

Michael Buffer particpating in Bristol driver intros: Driver introductions for the Sprint Cup races at Bristol Motor Speedway are unique in the sport - and for the upcoming IRWIN Tools Night Race Aug. 25, a couple of new twists have been added. Well-known ring announcer Michael Buffer, whose "Let's Get Ready To Rumble" catchphrase is known world-wide, takes part in driver introductions, adding his distinct voice to each driver's entrance from a stage in Turn 3 of the track. Fans have been involved pre-race ceremonies at BMS before, including introducing themselves before the drivers. This time, BMS guests get to determine who does it the best. Fans will be asked to vote, via the Sprint Unlimited Text to Vote, for the driver's introduction they like best. The winning driver then will receive $10,000 that will go to his or her favorite charitable organization. In the distinctive pre-race ceremony at Bristol Motor Speedway, Sprint Cup drivers select a specific song to make their entrance. Many become memorable, including Brad Keselowski's "Won't Back Down", and Tony Stewart's "How Do You Like Me Now?" The highlight of last March's ceremony featured Denny Hamlin dancing "The Dougie" on his way down the ramp.(BMS)(8-7-2012)

Speedway Children's Charities Golf Tournament August 20: Before cars take to the track at Bristol Motor Speedway, race weekend kicks off with the 14th Annual Speedway Children's Charities Golf Tournament presented by Baker's Construction Services at Tri-Cities Golf Course on Aug. 20. One of the Bristol Chapter of Speedway Children's Charities largest fundraisers each year, the tournament sets the tone for a week of unparalleled racing action which takes place at the World's Fastest Half-Mile later in the week. The tournament, which features a four-person captain's choice format, begins at noon with a shotgun start. Companies may purchase a team, as well as sponsor a hole for $750, or for $600 without a hole sponsorship. A sponsorship includes the company's sign on the tee or hole, four players, cart and green fee and a goody bag, along with lunch (provided by Chick-fil-A), dinner (provided by Levy Restaurants) and beverages. Individuals who would like to participate in the tournament may sign up for $150. This includes one player with cart and green fees, as well as a goody bag, lunch, dinner and beverages. To sign up for the tournament, please contact Betsy Holleman at (423) 989-6975 or via email at betsy@bristolmotorspeedway.com.(BMS)(8-7-2012)

Bristol ticket holders can drive the track: Jealousy may soon hit the drivers in the NASCAR garage area. On Saturday, Aug. 11, race fans with tickets to any BMS racing event during IRWIN Tools Night Race Week will be allowed to drive their own vehicle around the revamped concrete surface, an advantage any NASCAR driver surely would enjoy. Those with tickets to the IRWIN Tools Night Race, the Food City 250 or the UNOH Perfect Storm Doubleheader can come to BMS from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Aug. 11 for an open house to showcase the Bristol high banks. After showing their tickets, fans will line up behind the Official BMS Pace Car for laps around the "World's Fastest Half-Mile." In addition to track laps, Camping World Truck Series competitor Ty Dillon will be on hand from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. to provide ride-along laps to several lucky fans in a street truck. Those without tickets should not fret, however, as they will be available to purchase on site.(BMS)(8-4-2012)

"We Back Pat" ticket packages at Bristol: Knoxville's Trevor Bayne, a crowd favorite at Bristol Motor Speedway, is back on track in the Nationwide Series for the Food City 250 Aug. 24. Bayne is highlighted in two special ticket packages at BMS to celebrate his return to the World's Fastest Half-Mile as he pilots the "We Back Pat"-themed Roush Fenway Ford in honor of the University of Tennessee's Pat Summitt. The Food City 250 package currently is available, starting at $60, and features a ticket to the Food City 250, a "We Back Pat" t-shirt and admission to a special question-and- answer session with Bayne. Also available is a package for the weekend, which contains a ticket to both the IRWIN Tools Night Race Sprint Cup event Aug. 25 and the Food City 250, a "We Back Pat" t-shirt and admission to the Q&A, starting at $125. A portion of the proceeds from the ticket package will benefit The Pat Summitt Foundation. For more information, call the BMS ticket office toll free at 1-866-415-4158 or visit www.bristoltix.com.(BMS)(8-3-2012)

UNOH extends sponsorship to include Bristol truck race: The University of Northwestern Ohio, like many drivers during a NASCAR race weekend, will be doing double duty at Bristol Motor Speedway in August, sponsoring two events. The sponsor of the UNOH Perfect Storm 150 Whelen Modified event at BMS since 2009, the college also will sponsor the UNOH 200 Camping World Truck Series event Aug. 22, the second half of the Wednesday night doubleheader. Dr. Jeffrey Jarvis, the president of the University of Northwestern Ohio, says the partnership with BMS continues to be extremely beneficial for the university. "Everyone at the University of Northwestern Ohio is very excited about extending our partnership with Bristol Motor Speedway to the Camping World Truck Series," he said "We've been sponsoring the Modified event since 2009 and the opportunities it has given our students, staff and facility since we started have been immeasurable. Steve Farmer, Vice President of Business Development at UNOH, feels moving to the Camping World Truck Series made perfect sense. "With the success we've had sponsoring the Modified race, it just makes more sense for us to be associated with the Truck Series because it is a higher profile event," he said. "It'll be more exposure for the University of Northwestern Ohio and our students and our programs." UNOH is on board as sponsor of the Truck Series race through 2016. This will be the final year of its sponsorship of the Modified event.(Bristol Motor Speedway PR)(7-23-2012)

Bristol Tickets Still Available: Seats in some of the more popular locations at Bristol Motor Speedway rapidly are becoming hard to come by with the IRWIN Tools Night Race quickly approaching. While the Wallace Tower and The Pit Road Party Zone sections are full, the Allison Grandstand on the front stretch of the World's Fastest Half-Mile, as well as several other popular sections, continue to fill with little more than five weeks remaining before NASCAR returns to the newly revamped .533-mile oval. Seats remain available for all three nights of racing in August. Race week Aug. 22 with a doubleheader, which features the Volunteer 200 Camping World Truck Series race and the UNOH Perfect Storm 150 Whelen Modified event. On tap Aug. 24 is the Food City 250 Nationwide Series race, followed by the IRWIN Tools Night Race Sprint Cup event Aug. 25.(BMS)(7-19-2012)

Bristol Camping and RV Options: Bristol Motor Speedway officials announced a new come-as-you-are test program aimed at those needing housing options for the IRWIN Tools Night Race in August. After hearing from BMS guests about lodging costs and gas prices, BMS General Manager Jerry Caldwell said this added opportunity gives a choice to fans who love the camping experience, but currently are not in the position to incur the fuel costs of pulling their RV to Bristol. "We obtained a number of RVs that will sleep up to seven," Caldwell said. "Really nice travel trailers parked on a site with full water, power and sewer hookups, these units rent for $1,500, plus tax, for the week. For a full crew of race fans, that's under $230 a person for the entire week or just under $35 a day. That's a tough deal to beat." But that isn't the only choice race fans have for the August races. "We put a call out to RV owners interested in renting their units," Caldwell said. "We plan three levels of pricing, $500, $750 and $1,000 for the week depending on the unit and the owner's requirements. Our friends at Race Lodging are handling the private-unit and full-hookup RV bookings for us." RV owners wanting to rent their units and fans booking the full-hookup RVs may call (423) 764-5454 or go to www.racelodging.com.(BMS)
AND Additional options are available for campers coming to Bristol Motor Speedway in August as officials continue to find ways to attack the challenges of coming to the IRWIN Tools Night Race events. Speedway officials secured property for approximately 250 additional low-cost camping spaces to help in the financial challenge of traveling. The additional camping options are nearly 150 tent-camping spots for only $50 for the week of the IRWIN Tools Night race and more than 100 non-hook-up RV parking (shower house included) for only $99 for the week. Fans interested in any of these options may call (423) 989-6944.(BMS)(7-17-2012)

Pat Summitt named Food City 250 Grand Marshal: Food City will celebrate the 20th anniversary of its sponsorship of the Food City 250 at Bristol Motor Speedway Aug. 24 with a very special guest serving as grand marshal. The legendary Pat Summitt, the all-time winningest coach in NCAA basketball history who won eight NCAA national championships while coaching at the University of Tennessee, will give the command for drivers to start their engines for the Food City 250, the most popular Nationwide Series race on the NASCAR schedule. This will mark Summitt's first visit to "The World's Fastest Half-Mile." "I have always loved sports and will be honored to be the Grand Marshal for the Food City 250 at Bristol Motor Speedway," said Summitt. "It will be a thrill to hear the engines fire up and the crowd while I say, 'Drivers, start your engines.'" Summitt, who stepped down as coach of the Lady Vols in April of this year, was diagnosed with early on-set Alzheimer's disease in August of 2011 and is now the Lady Vols' head coach emeritus. She is the only coach in NCAA history, and one of three college coaches overall, with 1,000 wins. She was named the Naismith Basketball Coach of the Century in 2009. In 38 years of coaching the Vols (1974-2012) she never had a losing season and finished her career with an amazing 1098-208 record.Most recently, she was honored with the Arthur Ashe Courage Award at the ESPY Awards. Trevor Bayne, a Knoxville resident and NASCAR Sprint Cup/Nationwide Series driver, will pilot a "We Back Pat"-themed Roush Fenway Ford sponsored by YourRaceCar.com in the Food City 250.(BMS)(7-14-2012)

Outside groove gone at Bristol: Bristol Motor Speedway has witnessed the initial laps on its recently altered surface. On day one of a two-day Goodyear Tire test #14-Tony Stewart, #31-Jeff Burton and #15-Clint Bowyer circled the half-mile concrete oval, and will wrap up the session on Wednesday. While it's impossible to predict how the racing action will be when NASCAR hits Bristol for August race week and the IRWIN Tools Night Race, the trio of drivers offered their comments following a full day of lapping the banks of Bristol. The same drivers will return on Wednesday to complete the Goodyear Tire test. Goodyear has mandated that the test sessions are closed to the public and media.
#14-Tony Stewart (who is the only driver to try to run the high groove): "Well, you've definitely lost the top groove. Guys who run up there aren't going to be able to do that because it's pretty slick up there. There's going to be less room to race, that's for sure. We've gone from a three-groove track to two grooves and any time you've got less room to get around it can get pretty interesting. I'm one of the guys who likes that high groove so it's really going to change things up for me. It'll change things for everybody though because when you take away room to race on a track this small with 43 cars... yeah, it's going to tighten things up."
#15-Clint Bowyer: "That outside line - the upper groove - is out of play now. There's going to be a lot closer racing then we've had here in the past. I don't typically run up there but a lot of guys do and I can't see them going up there now. If they do... it's pretty slippery and they'll figure that out in a hurry. The closer we have to race just means something's going to happen. Is it going to make fans happy? Well, narrowing up the track means less room to get around so there's no question there's going to be closer action."
#31-Jeff Burton: "Goodyear is looking to bring a tire with more grip. I really think they have found some stuff that is really promising. As for the track itself, I really can't imagine running up there in that top groove. I think it is going to force everyone more to the middle and bottom of the track. The drivers aren't going to be happy, but the spectators probably will be because it is going to put more cars in a closer space. By taking away that groove, it is going to change your mind about going up there. I think it is going to be two grooves, unless Goodyear brings a tire with a lot of grip. If that is the case, you'll want to run around the bottom. Making the groove smaller is a good thing, it is going to put the action back to the bottom and middle of the track. What has changed is up near the wall, the bottom is the same. Tony experimented and tried out that top groove, and I know he won't be trying that again. If people liked the older track more than the new, they are going to like this. This takes the top groove out and brings it back toward the old track. Taking the groove out moves the track closer to what it used to be."(see more quotes at bristolmotorspeedway.com)(6-13-2012)

Hotels partner with Bristol for lower-cost options: Twenty-four properties stretching from East Tennessee to Southwest Virginia and Western North Carolina comprise the first group participating in the Bristol Motor Speedway Fan-Friendly Lodging Partnership Program for the IRWIN Tools Night Race in August. A continued effort to help guests of BMS with the overall cost of a trip to Bristol, the Fan-Friendly Program includes properties that require reduced or no minimum-night stays at lower costs than previous years. Prices for rooms at participating properties start at $35 and visitors are urged to check distance and research the property to determine which one best fits their needs.(BMS)(6-10-2012)

Earnhardt, Jr to appear at Bristol Diet Mountain Dew Half-Mile Club: When it comes to popularity, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Bristol Motor Speedway have plenty in common as both are number one in the hearts of race fans. Put Earnhardt Jr. and the World's Fastest Half-Mile together and it's a can't-miss combination that makes for an unforgettable experience as the driver of the Diet Mountain Dew-sponsored #88 goes after the coveted IRWIN Tools Night Race trophy Aug. 25. Adding to the excitement for Earnhardt Jr. fans is the opportunity to be the audience when the former BMS winner is scheduled to make an appearance in the hospitality area at the Diet Mountain Dew Half-Mile Club that afternoon. The Diet Mountain Dew Half-Mile Club features an exclusive member's-only gift pack, a Saturday track tour, door prizes, entertainment, a souvenir program, and NASCAR celebrity appearances. The Diet Mountain Dew Half-Mile Club is available for the IRWIN Tools Night Race. Limited tickets are available at a cost of $180 for adults and $135 for children 12 and under. To purchase Diet Mountain Dew Half-Mile Club individual hospitality, please call Amy Denton at (423) 989-6930.(BMS)(6-4-2012)

Bristol Motor Speedway Modification Project reaches halfway point: The starter has given the field the crossed-flags as the historical track-modification project at Bristol Motor Speedway reaches the halfway point. The milling of the upper groove in Turns 3 and 4 of the World's Fastest Half-Mile is complete and the construction, or destruction, crew has relocated the equipment to Turns 1 and 2. Work resumed late Thursday (May 17). "It's been an interesting process," said BMS General Manager Jerry Caldwell. "We are asking this machinery to do something it wasn't designed to do in unique conditions. We intended for this surface to last 15 to 18 years and now after five we are tearing up a large part of it and it isn't giving up without a fight. We have had to replace a few machine parts doing it, but things are going well and the project will be complete in time for Goodyear's tire test in mid-June."(BMS PR)(5-21-2012)

Bristol providing more camping spaces for fans: A week after responding to fan requests by making major changes to the track surface, Bristol Motor Speedway General Manager Jerry Caldwell announced the next BMS fan initiative. Attacking the continuing economic challenges facing guests, Caldwell revealed a bold plan to arrange access to enough area property to expand BMS camping options by 700 spaces. Caldwell said it was an easy choice when deciding the Speedway's next fan project. A limited amount of camping spots remain on BMS property, but Caldwell said his goal is to have many of the 700 additional sites in place before current supply is gone. The August race week at BMS kicks off Aug. 22 with a doubleheader, which features the Camping World Truck Series race and the UNOH Perfect Storm 150 Whelen Modified event. On tap Aug. 24 is the Food City 250 Nationwide Series race, followed by the IRWIN Tools Night Race Sprint Cup event Aug. 25.(BMS)(5-6-2012)

Drivers comment on Bristol changes: Bruton Smith's decision not to seek driver input on how to fix Bristol Motor Speedway didn't sit well with several competitors in the Sprint Cup Series. And not all drivers are convinced the decision by the Speedway Motorsports Inc., chairman to grind the top groove will return racing at the half-mile track in Tennessee to the bumping and grinding it was known for before the 2007 reconfiguration. "I think they're wasting their time,'' points leader #16-Greg Biffle said on Friday at Richmond International Raceway. #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr. agreed. "I believe the racing will be the same,'' he said. "I know they probably didn't have a lot of time between now and (the August) race to do everything they wanted to do. Just grinding will take away a little groove, but once we lay a little rubber down it'll be just like it was, which I think is fine.'' Kevin Harvick definitely took issue with Smith's comment during Wednesday's news conference that "I do not consult race drivers when I am building a speedway.'' "They were all gung ho on wanting to meet at Texas,'' Harvick said. "The next thing you knew, nobody showed up, nobody called, nobody wanted to talk anymore. I guess maybe they were embarrassed that they just wound up grinding it.'' Harvick said he was told by Don Hawk, SMI's vice president of business affairs, that Smith wanted to discuss changes at Bristol with him at Texas. Hawk acknowledged that Smith wanted to meet with Harvick and his team owner, Richard Childress, and the meeting didn't happen. Hawk said he apologized to Harvick and Childress via text. He added that several other drivers were contacted via text for input on the project, and that some responded and some didn't. He said Smith talked to Brad Keselowski by phone.(ESPN)(4-28-2012)

Goodyear will test at Bristol's new surface: With the track changes at Bristol Motor Speedway, Goodyear felt the need to hold a tire test to evaluate the new surface. We're happy with our current tire set-up at Bristol but we always have to keep up with track changes, so we plan to run a test to determine what will best suit the specific modifications made to Bristol," said Stu Grant, Goodyear's general manager of worldwide racing. "We will start out our test with the existing Bristol tire set-up, in order to determine if the changes to the track surface require any changes to our tread compound formulation. We'll then evaluate if the track surface has changed and if we'll need to bring back something different for the race in August." Being a concrete surface, we always need to manage the 'rubbering in' process," added Grant. "Concrete seems to be more sensitive to taking rubber, so we need to make sure we get the right combination of tires to match up with this race track. The most important thing to us is making sure the actual racing surface is the same from the bottom of the track to the top." Goodyear's tire test will be held at Bristol on June 12-13. Participating teams are to be determined.(Goodyear)(4-25-2012)

Bristol Motor Speedway will remove progressive banking: Less than a month after fan feedback convinced him to make changes to the concrete surface at Bristol Motor Speedway, Bruton Smith, Chairman and CEO of Speedway Motorsports, announced his plans for significant modifications to the track. "I said when this process began last month that I would listen to what the fans said they wanted," Smith said. "After a week to 10 days, there was no question that the overwhelming majority was asking for alterations to the track. Since March 28, when we announced that changes would be made, we have listened to fans, heard from drivers and talked to engineers about what to do and how much time we had to do it. Once we knew the direction, we located the right equipment to make it happen." The changes concentrate on the progressive banking applied when the current track surface was put in place in the summer of 2007. "The majority of fans we heard from said they wanted adjustments made and the bulk of those said the progressive banking was what they didn't like," said Smith in explaining the decision-making process. "So, that's the focus of our efforts. And that is what we are working to change." When the deteriorating BMS track surface was replaced in 2007, variable banking was added. Often referred to as "progressive" because the degrees increase from bottom to top, the layout provided multiple lanes of racing on the famed short track. Smith said the choice to change the track surface did not come easy, but listening to the race fans always has served him well. "More and more fans kept asking us to do something to the track," Smith said. "So I put it out there. They spoke and we listened. I want them to be happy; I want them to love their experience in Bristol. This will accomplish that and I know they will be pleased with the result."(BMS)(4-25-2012)

Bristol Motor Speedway to announce changes on Apr 25th: On Wednesday, April 25, 2012, Bruton Smith, Chairman and CEO of Speedway Motorsports, Inc. and Jerry Caldwell, BMS general manager, are scheduled to make a special Bristol Motor Speedway announcement concerning alterations to the track surface. Prep work has already begun at BMS as teams have started removing the SAFER Barrier (BMS PR). See video of the removal at the Bristol Herald Courier.(4-12-2012)

Bruton Smith talks to Tennessee Governor about aid for track: Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and the owner of Bristol Motor Speedway discussed potential state assistance for the NASCAR venue Friday, two days after plans were announced to renovate the struggling track. Haslam and Bruton Smith, the North Carolina-based owner of Speedway Motorsports Inc., met in Nashville to hold "preliminary discussions" about potential aid. Speedway Motorsports plans to resurface Bristol before its next race in August in response to declining attendance and fan complaints about the quality of racing at the state's only Sprint Cup track. Restoring the track to its original configuration will cost about $1 million, according to The Associated Press. Lt. Gov. Ron Ramsey, R-Blountville, said he had spoken with Haslam about potential aid to Bristol, which lies within Ramsey's Senate district. "Attendance was down over 50,000 people, and just the lost sales taxes for two races would be $1 million in revenue," he said. "We have done things in the past - for tracks, for minor league ball clubs - and Bristol has never asked for anything before."(Tennessean)(4-5-2012)

Bruton Smith say changes will be made at Bristol: After more than a week of studying requested fan input, Bruton Smith, Chairman and CEO of Speedway Motorsports, announced he has ordered the go-ahead to make changes to the track surface at Bristol Motor Speedway. "The race fans have spoken," Smith said. "We had input that included a wide range of opinions. But the majority we heard from said they wanted to see changes made. As a result, I have ordered the equipment and work will begin within the next two weeks to allow time to have everything ready for August." Smith said an announcement regarding the scope of the work will be made soon. "The question we wanted to answer as quickly as possible was 'Is something going to be done?' Smith said. "The answer to that is 'yes.' We will have the details in two weeks as to what that 'something' is.(BMS)(3-28-2012)

Tires -- not reinventing speedway -- might be Bristol's answer: #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr. had some advice for Bruton Smith: talk to the drivers before firming up plans to reinvent Bristol Motor Speedway. It might be a good idea for Smith to talk to Goodyear, too, given that changing the tires at Bristol might be a far less expensive alternative to changing the racetrack. Track owner Smith, chairman of Speedway Motorsports Inc., said he was embarrassed by the turnout for last Sunday's Sprint Cup race at the .533-mile track. Consensus was that the grandstands, which can seat 160,000 fans, were roughly half-full. Possible solutions could a include to a return to the one-groove racetrack that disappeared with a 2007 reconfiguration that added graduated banking and opened the outside lane. Side-by-side green-flag racing replaced the typical Bristol bump-and-run, which inevitably led to a rash of caution flags. Tires with more grip and faster degradation might change the complexion of racing at Bristol, if cars with new tires become significantly faster than those on old rubber. "I think if we show up at Bristol with a tire that lays rubber down and is really soft, and it wears out... we need to get it back to where tires mean something," said Aric Almirola, driver of the #43 Richard Petty Motorsports Ford. "Nobody really ever comes in and takes four tires and blows the field anymore." The bottom line is that, if tires degrade rapidly, you'll have cars running radically different speeds on the racetrack, and the mixture of speed and strategy should improve the action.(NASCAR Wire Service)(3-25-2012)

Bruton Smith considering changes to Bristol Motor Speedway UPDATE: Bristol Motor Speedway owner Bruton Smith is considering about $1 million worth of changes to return his Tennessee track to the way it was before a 2007 reconfiguration. "We are going to take a very hard look at it this week," Smith told The Associated Press on Monday. "We have everything in our computers that shows us what the track used to be and what it is now, and we started working on that last night. I'll have an answer for you next week on if we'll alter the track." But Smith insisted it was the rain, not fan apathy over the current style of racing at Bristol, that contributed to Sunday's poor crowd. "We certainly thought it was going to be better, but the rain got us," Smith said. Bristol once was one of the toughest tickets in all of professional sports, but attendance has waned the past several years and its spring race has particularly suffered. The speedway says it seats 160,000, and although the grandstands appeared half empty Sunday, NASCAR's listed attendance was 102,000. Smith said 8,120 sold tickets went unused. But he remained adamant the attendance decline has nothing to do with the new racing at Bristol. At the same time, though, Smith said he began talking to his Speedway Motorsports Inc. officials on Sunday evening about changes to the track. Smith said SMI will study fan comments this week. "I want to be sure that the fans like what they see," he said. "If the fans like three abreast through the turns, we do nothing. If they don't, then we'll alter the track. The fans vote is the most important thing." If changes are made, they'll be done in time for NASCAR's Aug. 25 return to Bristol.(more at the Associated Press / Bristol Herald Courier ans SHARE your input HERE)(3-20-2012)
UPDATE: Speedway Motorsports, Inc., CEO Bruton Smith said yesterday that he is moving ahead with plans to return Bristol Motor Speedway to its previous configuration. Speaking on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio's The Late Shift with Buddy Baker and Jim Noble, Smith said feedback from fans has been overwhelmingly in favor of changing the legendary speedway's layout. "I'd say it's about 75% from the race fans that they'd like to see us put it back the way it was five years ago," he said. Smith said he has already consulted with engineers about making the necessary changes. "It will absolutely still be concrete," he said, "but we will (redo) the profiling. We have on paper exactly the way the track was before we came in and redid it. We're going to have all the elevations, the ingress and egress as it was before we completely redid it. We will here again offer race fans (the track) the way it was. It's not a major change that we did," insisted Smith. "We took up all the old concrete that was breaking up and causing a lot of problems. We completely redid the speedway, and fans got the idea that it's not the same. I guess it's not the same, since they told us that, and the race fan is always right. When the race fans speak, you listen. And that's what we're doing now." The SMI owner said the changes will be made before the Aug. 25 Sprint Cup Series night race. "You have a good contractor, your plans, your blueprints and a million dollars, and you just go ahead and do it. I've got engineers working on this as we speak. I have not taken this up with NASCAR yet, but that's what we will do," Smith said. "Once we're ready, we'll do it. There will be a press announcement of exactly what we're doing. I want it to be exactly correct -- the way these fans perceive it -- and I want to see 165,000 fans scrambling for tickets the way they have in the past."(Godfather Motorsports)(3-21-2012)

Changes made in BMS pitroad timing-lines: NASCAR has added two pit road timing lines on each side of the track at Bristol to lessen the advantage of certain pit stalls. #2-Brad Keselowski raised eyebrows during his victory at the .533-mile track last August by accelerating rapidly from his pit stall and slowing suddenly as he approached the next time line. Since pit road speed is measured across areas separated by the timing lines, certain stalls located just beyond timing lines have been particularly advantageous. Consequently, a driver can go as fast as possible in the segment in which his or her pit stop occurs without fear of a speeding penalty, effectively circumventing for a short burst Bristol's 30 mph pit-road speed limit. The timing lines added to the frontstretch and backstretch pits effectively cut the timing segments from the length of 11 pit stalls to six.(NASCAR Wire Services)(3-18-2013)

Irwin Tools Bristol night race pre-sale tickets now available: Fans at Bristol Motor Speedway this weekend may purchase IRWIN Tools Night Race tickets during an exclusive pre-sale event. Guests with tickets to today's Ford Fan Friday, Saturday's Ford EcoBoost 300/Widow Wax 125 or Sunday's Food City 500 can purchase 2012 IRWIN Tools Night Race tickets before they go on sale to the general public March 18 at 2 pm/et. The pre-sale tickets are available at any ticket booth or via telephone at 423-BRISTOL (274-4785). An August race weekend package, which includes the IRWIN Tools Night Race, as well as the Food City 250 Nationwide Series race, is available for $99. IRWIN Tools Night Race Tickets start at $75, Food City 250 pricing begins at $45 and the Camping World Truck Series race tickets are $30. Season tickets are still available through this weekend for the best savings of 25% off.(BMS)(3-18-2012)

BMS App Debuts this weekend: Race fans visiting Bristol Motor Speedway for this weekend's racing activities have a new informational tool to help them keep track of all the excitement at the "World's Fastest Half-Mile." The Bristol Motor Speedway app provides fans access to race and event schedules, GPS-enabled property maps and several other features to help them get even more from their experience at BMS. Guests can use GPS maps to find their current position, as well as various locations around the BMS property. Restrooms, ATMs, first aid stations and entrance gates are just a few of the amenities featured on the maps. One of the apps most popular features, fans can set GPS coordinates to make finding their seat or locating their car or campsite a breeze. Adding to the app's interactivity, guests can create their own customized schedule, called "My Schedule," which will alert them when a special event is set to take place. Additionally, fans can add driver appearances and other activities to their individual schedule. For more info or to download the App, go to bristolmotorspeedway.com.(BMS)(3-16-2012)

Carl Edwards To Serve as Honorary Starter for NNS race at Bristol: Carl Edwards is used to seeing the green flag fly from behind the wheel of his Roush Fenway Ford Fusion or Mustang, but this weekend he'll get a truly different perspective as he serves as Honorary Starter for Saturday's Ford EcoBoost 300 at Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of its multi-year sponsorship agreement with BMS that runs through 2014, the Region Area Ford Dealers have continually looked for ways to activate and improve the race weekend experience for fans. Ford Fan Friday, where race fans can attend Q&A sessions and get autographs from their favorite drivers, has become a highly-anticipated event. The inclusion of Edwards in this special role continues that philosophy. "It's an honor. I've sat in the grandstands to watch races at Bristol and I've been fortunate to race and win there as well, but this will be something totally different and I'm really excited about it," said Edwards, who won the NASCAR Nationwide Series race at Bristol in 2007. "I think Ford has a revolutionary and smart technology with EcoBoost that delivers both performance and fuel economy, which is something fans care about." In addition to Edwards' participation, Ford Group Vice-President of Global Marketing, Sales & Service Jim Farley will serve as the race's Grand Marshal. Farley has been a driving force behind the use of racing as a marketing tool for Ford EcoBoost.(BMS)(3-14-2012)

Tennessee Air National Guard to sing National Anthem at Bristol: Members of the Tennessee Air National Guard's 119th Command and Control Squadron from McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in Knoxville, Tenn. will sing the national anthem Sunday, March 18 prior to the start of the Food City 500. The McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base Quartet consists of native Tennesseans First Lieutenant Stephanie McKeen, Second Lieutenant Sarah Miller, Senior Airman Amanda Winkler and Technical Sergeant Jeannine Brown. The foursome has been handpicked to perform for numerous local, state and federal celebrations and events, including the National Guard 375th Anniversary Celebration and numerous senior leaders military events. Monroeville will perform the anthem Saturday, March 17, prior to the Ford EcoBoost 300/Widow Wax 125. The six-man group, all of whom hail from Northeast Tennessee, boasts a crossover sound between progressive bluegrass and acoustic country. Group members are Daniel Salyer, Eli Johnson, Travis Houck, Zane Petty, Matthew Munsey and Matt Flake.(BMS)(3-9-2012)

Kellie Pickler performing at Bristol: Country music sensation Kellie Pickler will perform in the Pepsi pre-race concert at Bristol Motor Speedway prior to the Food City 500 March 18. The 25-year-old Pickler shot to stardom after finishing sixth on the fifth season of American Idol in 2005. Among the hits from her first two albums, Small Town Girl and the self-titled Kellie Pickler, are "Red High Heels", "I Wonder", "Don't You Know You're Beautiful", "Best Days Of Your Life", "Things That Never Cross A Man's Mind", and "Didn't You Know How Much I Loved You". The first 500 fans who purchase a Track Tour for the Food City 500 also will receive on-track access to Pickler's concert, which will take place on the backstretch. They also will be able to stay on the track for driver introductions. Track Tours are $35 for IBelong members and $65 for non-members. Fans with Pit Road Party Zone access or iBelong Garage Experience passes also can attend Picker's concert.(BMS)(3-3-2012)

Ford to sponsor Bristol's NNS race: Ford Motor Company announced the expansion of the automaker's partnership at Bristol Motor Speedway with the sponsorship of the upcoming Nationwide Series race. The Ford EcoBoost 300 takes place March 17 at the World's Fastest Half-Mile, adding to Ford's involvement at BMS, which also includes sponsorship of Ford Fan Friday qualifying and the Ford Thunder Valley Nationals at Bristol Dragway. Ford also is the official vehicle of BMS. BMS season tickets, which include the Food City 500 and IRWIN Tools Night Race (Aug. 25) Sprint Cup races, as well as both the Ford EcoBoost 300, the Food City 250 and the K&N race, also are on sale. Pricing for all four races begins at just $175 in the Wallace Tower. A March race weekend package also is available starting at $99 that includes the Food City 500 and the Ford EcoBoost 300/K&N East Series 125 events. A package in the Wallace Tower for both Sprint Cup races also is now available for $99, while packages for fans 15 and younger are available for the March races at half price. Lower row seating for the Food City 500 is available, with tickets starting at $65.(BMS)(2-17-2012)

Bristol going green with Danica for St. Pats Day: Bristol Motor Speedway is "Going Green" in a big way with Go Daddy Girl Danica Patrick during a special St. Patrick's Day celebration for the Nationwide Series event March 17. Breaking a long-standing tradition of eschewing green, once a much-maligned hue in the NASCAR garage, the World's Fastest Half-Mile is embracing the color, right along with Patrick who will be driving a special St. Patrick's Day paint scheme in the 300-lapper that day. Patrick pilots the shamrock covered GoDaddy.com ride for JR Motorsports and makes her second start at BMS. As part of the celebration, fans can purchase a special ticket package for the race which also gives them access to a question and answer session with Patrick at Bristol on the morning of March 17. Fans will also receive a limited edition Danica / St. Patrick's Day event t-shirt, featuring the shamrock-themed #7 GoDaddy.com car. In addition, one lucky fan who purchases the package wins two hot passes and the opportunity to view the race from Patrick's pit box. Fans may visit a special website, www.DanicaGoesGreenAtBristol.com, which will keep them up to date with all the current news surrounding Patrick, tickets and the St. Patrick's Day celebration at BMS. The St. Patrick's Day celebration at BMS will be hosted by George Wendt, known for his 11-year role of the beer-drinking Norm Peterson on the television series Cheers. A post-race pit party also is on tap in the hospitality area with live music. In addition, the creek that runs through the property at Bristol Motor Speedway will be dyed green for the race and the lights that illuminate the stadium at night all will be green. The Patrick ticket package is available for $67 and includes a limited edition t-shirt, a $10 coupon to the JR Nation retail store at JR Motorsports, admittance to the question and answer session and the opportunity to be upgraded with pit passes courtesy of Bristol Motor Speedway. Children's ticket packages also will be available for $37.50 and will include a child's sized t-shirt.(BMS)(1-22-2012)

Bristol Fan Advisory Board accepting new member applications: Bristol Motor Speedway, the first NASCAR Sprint Cup Series sanctioned facility to institute an advisory group made up of fans, now is taking applications for its Fan Advisory Board. Formed in 2006, Bristol's Fan Advisory Board is a group of loyal fans who provide feedback and new ideas that aid in the growth and development of the Speedway, and its ability to exceed expectations by delivering the ultimate fan experience. Fans may apply online through Tuesday, January 31, 2012. Via online communication and annual meetings, the Fan Advisory Board targets visible issues, identifies challenges and presents ideas to enhance and better the "Bristol Experience." The board is comprised of 30-40 members, consisting of a demographic cross-section of fans. Correspondence and meetings include Bristol senior level management to ensure action items are fulfilled and executed in the vision of the board. Board members serve a "rotational" term that includes three NASCAR race weekends at Bristol Motor Speedway. After serving for three NASCAR race weekends, members rotate off, and new members are appointed.(BMS)(1-19-2012)

Speedway In Lights - Bristol Motor Speedway: It's the region's biggest and brightest holiday tradition. AutoTrader.com Speedway In Lights powered by TVA returns to Bristol Motor Speedway and Dragway for its 15th season. Open 6 to 10 pm nightly from November 18 through January 7, the entire family will enjoy this four-mile drive throughout Thunder Valley. Millions of lights and hundreds of displays line the route, and you even get to drive on the legendary "World's Fastest Half-Mile." Make sure you take some time to stop in Christmas Village! Enjoy roasting marshmallows, the carnival rides and even visit jolly ol' Saint Nick himself. Returning this season is the wildly popular "Symphony of Lights" which features thousands of LED lights moving to the rhythm of your favorite holiday tunes in the Darrell Waltrip grandstand. Also back for a second straight year is Santa's Sleigh Ride. It's an open-air ride through the lights aboard a holiday themed tram with a tour guide and plenty of fun. Sleigh rides operate only on Wednesday and Thursday nights at 6 pm and 8pm and reservations are required (call 423.989.6900). Sleigh Ride tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. And don't forget, proceeds from your visit to Speedway In Lights benefit the Bristol Chapter of Speedway Children's Charities. So not only will this event put a smile on your face, but it will also brighten the lives of thousands of children throughout the region surrounding Bristol Motor Speedway and Dragway.(BMS)(12-1-2011)

Random Acts of Kindness Night at Bristol: It was an early Christmas for those who chose to visit AutoTrader.com Speedway In Lights powered by TVA at Bristol Motor Speedway on Sunday evening. For the second season, all visitors were admitted free to the holiday light show as part of Random Acts of Kindness Night in memory of Jeff Byrd, the longtime general manager and president of Bristol Motor Speedway and Dragway who passed away in October of 2010. Byrd, whose 62nd birthday would have been this past weekend, was a strong advocate of providing a helping hand to anyone who needed it. To honor him, a number of the Speedway's partners again offered support for what certainly was one of his favorite gestures. At the end of the night, more than 1,100 vehicles passed through the lights and benefited from the act. Random Act of Kindness Night was made possible through the support of Baker's Construction Services, Can Do Enterprises, Corporal Clean, Express Signs, First Tennessee Foundation, Foster Signs, Green Acres, IT Decisions, JANPAK and Universal Printing. Proceeds from Autotrader.com Speedway In Lights powered by TVA benefit the Bristol Chapter of Speedway Children's Charities, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds for children's agencies in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. The Bristol Chapter of SCC has raised in excess of $6.5 million since 1997. Speedway In Lights is open nightly 6-10 p.m. through Jan. 7. Tickets, which may be purchased at the gate, are $10 for cars Sunday through Thursday, and $12 Friday and Saturday. Activity van tickets are $15 each night and bus tickets are $65 each night.(BMS)(12-14-2011)

Jeff Byrd named to Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame: Former Bristol Motor Speedway president and general manager Jeff Byrd will be inducted posthumously into the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame in 2012. Byrd, who passed away in October of 2010, is among 10 inductees who will be enshrined at the annual Hall of Fame banquet in Nashville May 19. A native of North Carolina, Byrd moved to Bristol in 1996 to take the helm at BMS after a lengthy and extremely successful career at R.J. Reynolds. The gregarious Byrd was part of a core group of bright, young people who worked at R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. from the 1970s to the 1990s, helping to transform NASCAR into one of the premier spectator sports in the world. Under Byrd's leadership and guidance, Bristol Motor Speedway grew from a 70,000-seat facility to one of the five largest stadiums in the country in terms of permanent seating with approximately 160,000 seats. Byrd's attention to guests - and his mantra of Exceed Expectations - made the race track a fan-favorite and one of NASCAR's most popular venues. During his tenure, Byrd also oversaw the transformation of Bristol Dragway into one of the country's premier NHRA facilities.(BMS)(12-13-2011)

Bristol race dates unchanged in 2012: Bristol Motor Speedway will again kick off NASCAR's short track season in 2012 in March and will welcome fans back for its second Sprint Cup event on the last Saturday in August. The main event in March, the Food City 500, which is the fourth Sprint Cup race of the season, takes place March 18. The IRWIN Tools Night Race, the sport's most popular event, takes place Aug. 25. NASCAR kicks off the BMS March race weekend with Ford Fan Friday March 16, followed by the Nationwide Series event March 17, and the Food City 500 Sprint Cup race March 18. August race week will begin with the Camping World Truck Series/Whelen Modified Series UNOH Perfect Storm 150 doubleheader Aug. 22. The Food City 250 Nationwide Series race is Aug. 24, followed by the IRWIN Tools Night Race Aug. 25.(BMS)(9-22-2011)

NASCAR plans more scoring loops at Bristol: Bristol Motor Speedway is unique among NASCAR Sprint Cup tracks in that it has two separate pit roads - one along each straightaway. That alignment does not fit well with NASCAR's modern method of pitting, which includes strict pit-road speeds and an attempt to make pit stops and the entrance to and exit from the pits as equal as possible. That was not the case in Saturday night's Irwin Tools Night Race at the track. Race winner Brad Keselowski and others appeared to benefit from the location of their pits, giving them more room to move faster in certain sections of pit road. Other pit spots were not as advantageous. NASCAR Sprint Cup Series director John Darby admitted after the race that the situation was not ideal and said NASCAR will address it. "We understand what happened, and we're already looking at it," he said. "We'll probably put in two more scoring loops on each side of pit road." Darby's intent is to add loops on the Bristol surface, thus providing a closer read on speeds. Based primarily on their pit locations, some drivers were positioned to "speed" along portions of pit road, then quickly hit their brakes before being detected. Additional loops should take care of that discrepancy.(SPEED)(8-28-2011)

Bristol Driver Introduction Songs: Instead of run-of-the-mill driver introductions, Bristol Motor Speedway lets Sprint Cup drivers stroll out in front of fans to snippets of the songs of their choice. The speedway on Friday afternoon released a song list for several drivers for Saturday's Irwin Tools Night Race. Not all drivers released their song choices; Dale Earnhardt Jr. is keeping his pick a secret until he walks down the ramp. Selections we do know:
• Carl Edwards - "Run This Town" by Jay Z.
• Jimmie Johnson - "Don't Mess Around With Jim" by Jim Croce
• Jeff Gordon - "E.I." by Nelly
• Mark Martin - "La Grange" by ZZ Top
• Kevin Harvick - "Show Me What You Got" by Jay-Z
• Clint Bowyer - "Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way" by Waylon Jennings
• Jeff Burton - A combination of "Coal Keeps The Lights On" by Neal Spears and "Welcome to the Jungle" by Guns 'n' Roses
• Paul Menard - "Gypsy Road"
• Kyle Busch - "Rowdy Busch" by Raytona500
• Denny Hamlin - "Bad Meets Evil" by Fast Lane
• Joey Logano - ESPN's SportsCenter theme song
• Matt Kenseth - "Indestructible" by Disturbed
• Greg Biffle - The Sanford and Son theme song
• David Ragan - "I'm From The Country" by Tracy Byrd
• Tony Stewart - "Throw the Hammer Down" by Derek Miller
• Ryan Newman - "Big Green Tractor" by Jason Aldean
• Kasey Kahne - "Made In America" by Toby Keith
• Kurt Busch - "Baby Got Back" by Sir Mix A Lot
• David Reutimann - "Pretty Fly For A White Guy" by The Offspring
• J.J. Yeley - "I'm Sexy And I Know It" by LMFAO.(USA Today)(8-27-2011)

Bristol Season Ticket Holders to have Wall of Fame: Bristol Motor Speedway's thousands of loyal fans are being recognized in a rather unique way during its 50th anniversary celebration throughout August race weekend. Thousands of iBelong Season Ticket Holders at NASCAR's most popular track now have their names placed on the inside retaining wall near the exit of Turn 4. BMS is the first track to honor its fans in this manner. "This is simply another way to show our fans just how important they are to us," said Executive Vice President and General Manager Jerry Caldwell. "These folks are absolutely the best and we wanted to do something a little different - and special - to make sure they realized just how appreciative we are of their support.(BMS)(8-26-2011)

Fans to get Bristol trading cards at Irwin Tools Night Race: Fifty years of racing at Bristol Motor Speedway has produced some of the sport's most significant moments and created lasting memories for race fans. In celebration of the track's golden anniversary, every fan through the gates for the Aug. 27 IRWIN Tools Night Race will receive a sheet of trading cards highlighting some of the most memorable events in Bristol's history. Among the 24 trading cards is one featuring the infamous wreck from the 1999 Night Race in which Dale Earnhardt knocked Terry Labonte out of the way en route to his ninth win at BMS, as well as Darrell Waltrip's history-making seventh straight Bristol win in 1984 and Davey Allison's celebration of his photo-finish victory over Mark Martin in 1990. There are four different sheets of the BMS trading cards and each fan will receive one sheet, enabling them to trade with their fellow race fans that evening, prior to the start of the IRWIN Tools Night Race.(BMS)(8-25-2011)

Bristol 50th anniversary poster given away with souvenir program: Bristol Motor Speedway's celebration of its 50th anniversary continues during the upcoming August race weekend with a special poster and souvenir program to commemorate the occasion. The program features a cover by NASCAR artist Sam Bass that gives a nod to the most successful drivers in the track's history: Darrell Waltrip, Dale Earnhardt, Rusty Wallace, Cale Yarborough, David Pearson, Jeff Gordon, Kurt Busch and Kyle Busch. Inside the program are numerous photos and stories tracing a half century of Bristol racing. With the purchase of the program comes a poster, created by Roger Warrick, which features all 26 drivers who have won the second race of the season at BMS, including all of the drivers on the cover of the program. Among the other drivers on the poster are Hall of Famers Richard Petty, Bobby Allison and Ned Jarrett, as well as Dale Earnhardt Jr., Tony Stewart, Alan Kulwicki, Matt Kenseth, Carl Edwards, Benny Parsons and Ernie Irvan. The poster will be given away as part of the souvenir program package, which includes the program, a BMS collectible car and a plastic sleeve to protect the program. Cost of the program package is only $10. Fans wishing to purchase the $15 package also will receive a BMS racing t-shirt. The program goes on sale Wednesday, Aug. 24 just in time for the O'Reilly Auto Parts 200/UNOH Perfect Storm 150 doubleheader at BMS, and will be sold throughout race weekend.(BMS)(8-24-2011)

Bristol Dignitaries, National Anthems and Flyovers for Bristol announced: One of the most popular groups ever to sing the national anthem at Bristol Motor Speedway returns to perform prior to IRWIN Tools Night Race Aug. 27. Motor Racing Outreach again brings the children of NASCAR drivers and crew members together to sing the anthem before the green flag falls on the sport's most popular race. Country music's J.T. Hodges will perform the national anthem prior to the start of Friday night's Food City 250. Sidewalk Prophets, winners of the 2010 GMA Dove Award for New Artist of the Year, will perform the anthem Wednesday evening, prior to the start of the O'Reilly Auto Parts 200, while country music's Reagan Boggs, a local favorite from Pound, Va., will perform before the UNOH Perfect Storm 150. Joe Gibbs will give the invocation before the IRWIN Tools Night Race, along with Mike Rife (Vansant Church of Christ, Food City 250), Steve Wingfield (Victory Weekend Ministries, O'Reilly Auto Parts 200) and Don Rivers (Racing with Jesus Ministries, UNOH Perfect Storm 150).
Saturday night's flyover will feature four T-38 Talon Twin-Jet High-Altitude Trainers from Randolph Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas while 2 T-45s from Naval Air Station Meridian (Miss.) will be featured in Friday's flyover.
The grand marshals for the IRWIN Tools Night Race will be Mike Polk, CEO of Newell Rubbermaid and 250 professional tradesmen. Friday's grand marshal is Sullivan County sheriff's deputy Carolyn Gudger, while USMC Retired Lt. Col. Tom Talty (UNOH Perfect Storm 150) and Lyk-Nu Automotive's Bill Seiber (O'Reilly Auto Parts 200) will drop the green flags Wednesday evening.
Honorary Starters are Ace Hardware's Ken Goodgame (IRWIN Tools Night Race), country music's Billy Dean (Food City 250), Lock 16 Restaurants' Gene Miller (UNOH Perfect Storm 150) and VJ's Auto's Ricky Brown (O'Reilly Auto Parts 200). The Tennessee Army National Guard will present the colors Saturday evening while Cherokee High School's NJROTC will present Friday and Dobyns-Bennett High School's AFJROTC will present the color prior to both Wednesday races.
Tickets are available for all four night races at Bristol Motor Speedway. Fans can enjoy both the IRWIN Tools Night Race and the Food City 250 for as little as $99. Should they be in town for the Wednesday night doubleheader, fans can take in all four races under the lights in packages starting at $129. To purchase tickets, fans may contact the BMS ticket office at 1-866-415-4158 or 423-BRISTOL.(BMS)(8-23-2011)

Transporter Parade in Bristol on Thursday: Some of the most popular drivers in Bristol during August race week never actually compete at the World's Fastest Half-Mile. Fans may not know their names but they certainly recognize the colorful vehicles they pilot as they make their way to Bristol Motor Speedway for the hugely popular Ford/Bristol Motor Speedway Transporter Parade. One of a number of entertaining and fun-filled events that take place at BMS during August race week, the Ford/BMS Transporter Parade, which is Thursday evening, Aug. 25, is definitely a fan favorite. Thousands of fans in the area for the four NASCAR races at BMS that week come out early, staking their claim on their chosen viewing position along the 10-mile route from the Bristol Mall to the World's Fastest Half-Mile. Many of the haulers also will carry a child from either the Make A Wish Foundation or the Children's Miracle Network. The parade is scheduled to start at 9:00 pm/et at the Bristol Mall, following completion of downtown Bristol's Food City Family Race Night. More than 60 haulers will then make their way from the mall down Volunteer Parkway to BMS. A reception for BMS season ticket holders will take place at 4:30 pm while the transporter drivers will be introduced at 7:45 pm. The transporter drivers will be available prior to the start of the parade to sign autographs at the Bristol Mall. Children attending the event will be able to enjoy a "5-In-1 Sport" jump playhouse. Single-event tickets for Saturday's IRWIN Tools Night Race start at $90 while ticket prices for the Food City 250 begin at $45. Wednesday night doubleheader tickets for the O'Reilly Auto Parts 200 and the UNOH Perfect Storm 150 are $25 in advance of the race and $30 Aug. 24. To purchase tickets, fans may contact the BMS ticket office at 1-855-415-4158 or 423-BRISTOL.(BMS)(8-22-2011)

Darryl Worley performing pre-race concert at Bristol: Country music star Darryl Worley will take to the stage prior to the IRWIN Tools Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway for a pre-race concert Aug. 27.The Memphis-born singer has released six albums, the latest entitled "Sounds Like Life." Worley has had 18 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts, including three number one songs, "I Miss My Friend", "Have You Forgotten?", and "Awful, Beautiful Life". Tickets are available for all four night races at Bristol Motor Speedway. Fans can enjoy both the IRWIN Tools Night Race and the Food City 250 for as little as $99. Should they be in town for the Wednesday night doubleheader, fans can take in all four races under the lights in packages starting at $129. To purchase tickets, fans may contact the BMS ticket office at 1-866-415-4158 or 423-BRISTOL.(BMS)(8-16-2011)

Bristol Fan Appreciation adds carnival; Junior Johnson: Bristol Motor Speedway's Fan Appreciation Day July 30 will feature rides around the track - and rides of a different kind just outside the World's Fastest Half-Mile. A carnival has been added to the festivities, opening Tuesday, July 26 and running through July 30. The carnival will be free from 1 p.m.-5:30 p.m. on Fan Appreciation Day for anyone with a ticket to Thompson Metal Monster Truck Madness that evening at the BMS. Fan Appreciation Day is being held in honor of Bristol Motor Speedway's 50th anniversary. The first NASCAR Grand National race, as the series was called then, took place in Bristol July 30, 1961. Junior Johnson, who finished 22nd that day, while Jack Smith went on to take the checkers, will be on hand to give several lucky fans a ride around the World's Fastest Half-Mile.(BMS)(7-26-2011)

Bristol offers low-cost tent camping: Bristol Motor Speedway officials announced another low-cost option for fans interested in attending the IRWIN Tools Night Race week Aug. 24-27. As race fans continue to find more economic ways to vacation, Speedway executives have created tent-camping options ranging from $50 to $75 for the week. "One of the things we have heard consistently from our guests who are coming to the races and others who want to come is the desire for more lodging choices," said Jerry Caldwell, BMS Executive Vice President and General Manager. "We have addressed that in different ways. Fans must have tickets to the events at BMS to reserve the spots which may be purchased by calling (423) BRISTOL (274-7865) or (423) 989-6900. Tent camping spots may be reserved by calling (423) 989-6944.(BMS)(7-25-2011)

Jeff Gordon ticket package at Bristol: Race fans can help AARP and five-time Bristol winner Jeff Gordon in the Drive to End Hunger. Teaming with Bristol Motor Speedway, AARP and the AARP Foundation, Gordon is offering a new, enhanced ticket package for the Aug. 27 IRWIN Tools Night Race. It includes a question-and-answer session with Gordon on the day of the race. Due to space limitations in the BMS hospitality area, availability is limited, so fans are encouraged to purchase tickets promptly. A $4 donation from each package sold will benefit Drive to End Hunger. Fans who purchase the tickets also will receive a Drive to End Hunger hat and a BMS 50th anniversary poster featuring Gordon. The Jeff Gordon ticket package is $124 and may be purchased by calling the BMS ticket office at 423-BRISTOL or 1-866-415-4158. Fans should ask for the Jeff Gordon AARP package. Should fans wish to add a Food City 250 ticket to the package, the cost is $169.(BMS)(7-23-2011)

Bristol launches social media contest: Bristol Motor Speedway, launched a social media contest in conjunction with its summer-long celebration of NASCAR's most popular track and the venue's 50th Anniversary. The contest -- "50 Days of Giveaways" -- invites Facebook fans to participate in a series of interactive promotions to win exclusive experiential prizes like pit passes, VIP hospitality and ticket packages. In addition to Fan Appreciation Day on July 30 and other special events, 50 Days of Giveaways raises awareness about Bristol's storied past, while paying tribute to its special breed of fans. The first contest, currently under way, invites fans to "Show Us Your Number" via photo uploads of shirts, tattoos or body art like the infamous "Number 3 Guy," who shaved Dale Earnhardt's number into his back hair. The winner gets to wave the green flag during Sharpie Qualifying Friday, August 26 and receives two cold pit passes for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series IRWIN Tools Night Race, slated for August 27.(BMS)(7-18-2011))

Bristol hosting Fan Appreciation Day: In celebration of Bristol Motor Speedway's 50th anniversary, NASCAR's most popular track will mark the anniversary of its inaugural race with a Fan Appreciation Day July 30. The first NASCAR Grand National race, as the series was called then, took place July 30, 1961, with Jack Smith becoming the first driver in the track's storied victory lane. Fifty years later, the World's Fastest Half-Mile, long one of NASCAR's premier tracks, will mark the occasion with a fan celebration. Track laps, always a popular event, will be offered at no charge to any fan with tickets to NASCAR events at BMS. Guests who are not ticket holders also may take their own cars around the concrete oval after making a donation of any amount to Speedway Children's Charities. Food City will provide hot dogs and chips, while Pepsi will supply drinks and BKW will provide wings while supplies last. Several local bands also will be on hand to provide entertainment. A number of Monster Trucks also will be staged in the infield where the Thompson Metal Monster Truck Madness will take place later that evening.(BMS)(7-16-2011)

Earnhardt, Jr. appearing at Bristol AMP Energy Club: AMP Energy/National Guard driver #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr., certainly will amp up the crowd at the World's Fastest Half-Mile Saturday night, Aug. 27 as he vies for the coveted IRWIN Tools Night Race trophy. Prior to him hitting the concrete for the IRWIN Tools Night Race, fans have the opportunity to be in the audience when Earnhardt Jr. is scheduled to make an appearance in the hospitality area at the Amp Energy Club that afternoon. The Amp Energy Club features an exclusive member's-only gift pack, a Saturday track tour, door prizes, entertainment, a souvenir program, and NASCAR celebrity appearances. Individual hospitality seating in the Amp Energy Club is available for the Food City 250 on Friday, Aug. 20, the IRWIN Tools Night Race or in a weekend package. A weekend package is $270 per person. Saturday only is $180 and Friday only is $110.(BMS)(6-27-2011)

Bristol Motor Speedway makes list as one the world's top sports destinations: The unique nature and mystique of Bristol Motor Speedway once again propelled the modern day coliseum to the forefront in a listing of the world's top sports destinations. In a recent Business Insider article, entitled the "100 Best Venues In Sports", Bristol Motor Speedway was the lone NASCAR track among the facilities making the list. Selections accumulated points in three categories: architecture, ambiance and aesthetics -- evidenced by the many recently-constructed facilities in the inventory. Bristol Motor Speedway landed in the No. 77 slot; in front of such notable venues as Busan Asaid Stadium (Busan, South Korea), Beijing National Stadium (Bejing, China), home of the 2008 Summer Olympics, Court Phillippe Chatier - the main court at the French Open (Paris, France) and Yas Marina Circuit (Yas Island, UAE), home of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. For more information concerning tickets, please visit www.bristoltix.com or call the BMS ticket office at 423-BRISTOL (274-7865) or toll free at 1-866-415-4158.(BMS)(6-14-2011)

Bristol Race to Relief Creates 24 Hours of Awareness: Relief and awareness of victims in Tennessee and Virginia from the recent devastating storms are the focus as Bristol Motor Speedway and Dragway aid efforts of the American Red Cross this Friday and Saturday with a variety of activities during the BMS Race To Relief. From 5-8 p.m. Friday, for a $25 donation to the relief efforts, fans may make laps around the famed Bristol Motor Speedway in their own cars. For those who cannot make it Friday evening, anyone interested can take part in track laps from 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, May 7. While some take laps on the Speedway, others who happen to be driving by the Speedway may help as well. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, at the North Entrance of the Speedway, BMS employees will be on hand to collect monetary donations of any amount from people wanting take part in the "drop in the bucket" fundraiser. In addition, 25 percent of every ticket sold Saturday for any event during the August NASCAR IRWIN Tools Night Race weekend will be donated to the Red Cross.(BMS)(5-4-2011)

Bristol Night Race tickets on sale: Bristol Motor Speedway's season-long celebration of its 50th anniversary culminates with the running of the IRWIN Tools Night Race, NASCAR's most popular event, Aug. 27, and single-event tickets and weekend packages now are available. Fans can enjoy 750 laps of action at the World's Fastest Half-Mile with the IRWIN Tools Night Race and the Food City 250 Aug. 26, for as little as $99. Guests in town Wednesday, Aug. 24 for the Wednesday night doubleheader, featuring the O'Reilly Auto Parts 200 Camping World Truck Series and the UNOH Perfect Storm 150 Whelen Modified event, can take in all four races under the lights in packages starting at $129. For more information concerning tickets, please visit www.bristoltix.com or call the BMS ticket office at 423-BRISTOL (274-7865) or toll free at 1-866-415-4158.(BMS)(4-7-2011)

Drag racer to start up car at Bristol start/finish line: For the first time, Motorcraft/Quick Lane Racing teammates Bob Tasca III and Trevor Bayne will suit up at the same race - Tasca to participate in opening ceremonies, and Bayne to compete in the Jeff Byrd 500 at his home track, Bristol Motor Speedway. Tasca will fire up his Motorcraft/Quick Lane Ford Shelby Mustang NHRA Full Throttle Series Funny Car on the start/finish line of the legendary track Sunday morning, after a weekend of appearances at the Ford display, a pace car ride and meetings with media. "When they see one of these cars start up right before the race, and we hit the throttle two or three times, that's when people are really blown away with just how much horsepower we are making out of these Ford engines," said Tasca, who will also take a ride around the world's fastest half-mile on Sunday. "Not too many people realize how much these nitro Ford engines produce, and when you're standing right next to it and we hit the throttle, you really can feel just how much power is there. It's always great to go to a NASCAR event and spread the gospel about our sport, and share what we do with people who don't know much about drag racing," Tasca and the NHRA Full Throttle Series come to Bristol Dragway Father's Day Weekend, June 17-19, 2011 for the NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals, presented by Tri-Cities area Area Ford Dealers.(Motorcraft/Quick Lane Racing)(3-20-2011)

New 'World' Record at Bristol: Jason Blonde was the fastest of the fast Saturday afternoon at Bristol Motor Speedway as he established a new world record during the World's Fastest Half-Mile Speed Trials. Blonde, driving an Xtreme Sprint Series sprint car, clicked off a blistering lap of 144.871 mph in 13.245 seconds, shattering the previous track record of 138.442 mph in 13.860 seconds set by Sammy Swindell in June of 2000 at BMS during a World of Outlaws event. The 36-year-old Blonde, a veteran sprint car racer with more than 50 feature wins on both dirt and pavement, tagged the wall earlier in the afternoon, but was totally unfazed.
Mike Lichty set a new half-mile Supermodified world record with a lap of 144.634 mph in 13.267 seconds. Sprint Cup driver David Ragan piloted his Ford Mustang GT 5.0 to a lap of 98.497 mph at 19.481 seconds, a world record for a passenger car. Scott Russell and his Yamaha took on the World's Fastest Half-Mile and set a half-mile closed course record for a Superbike with a run of 97.990 mph, which he covered in 19.582 seconds. Others participating in the World's Fastest Half-Mile Speed Trials were USAC Sprint Car driver Bryan Clauson and ISMA Supermodified driver Brad Noffsinger.(BMS)(3-19-2011)

BMS to dedicate POW/MIA memorial in grandstands: Bristol Motor Speedway will hold a special service before the Jeff Byrd 500 Presented by Food City March 20 to dedicate a POW/MIA memorial in the grandstands. The Empty Chair Memorial, which serves as a physical symbol of the thousands of American POW/MIAs still unaccounted for from all foreign conflicts, will sit on the frontstretch grandstands, just behind the flag stand. On Friday, March 18, Rolling Thunder, Inc., a national veteran's orientated organization, and officials from Bristol Motor Speedway, will have the Missing Man Ceremony, while also raising a POW/MIA flag that will fly throughout the weekend at BMS.
The Empty Chair Memorial will be cordoned off in the BMS grandstands. Inside the area will be a solitary chair, fresh flowers that will be changed daily and a plaque. The plaque at the unoccupied seat will recognize the more than 92,000 American soldiers missing since World War I. Race weekend at BMS kicks off with Ford Fan Friday qualifying March 18, followed by the Scotts EZ Seed 300 Nationwide Series race March 19, and the Jeff Byrd 500 Presented by Food City Sprint Cup event March 20.(BMS)(3-16-2011)

A sellout not expected at Bristol: While a "huge" crowd is expected for this Sunday's Sprint Cup race at Bristol Motor Speedway, it's not likely to be a sellout, said both Bruton Smith, who is chairman and CEO of Speedway Motorsports Inc., and Jerry Caldwell, who is president and general manager at Bristol. "I don't know that we'll have a sellout," Smith said. "I'd like to say we will. That would be wonderful. But I don't know that we will. There will be a huge crowd there, though, both Saturday [for the Nationwide Series race] and Sunday [for the Cup Series race]." Bristol Motor Speedway had its string of 55 consecutive sellouts broken last spring when an estimated 138,000 attended the Food City 500, according to NASCAR. The facility offers grandstand seating for 160,000, and fell just short of filling that for last August's night race that was attended by a crowd estimated at 155,000 by NASCAR. Caldwell said BMS is still dealing with a sluggish economy that has adversely affected the ability of long-time season ticket holders to renew their packages and attend Bristol's two races every year. And given a choice, both he and Smith admitted that fans tend to choose the August night race over the spring Sunday afternoon event.(in part from NASCAR.com)(3-15-2011)

Bristol Motor Speedway on cover of NASCAR the Game 2011: Many race fans have dreamed of the day they can slide behind the wheel of a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series machine and rocket around the high banks of Bristol Motor Speedway. Now, thanks to a special GameStop Racing and NASCAR The Game 2011 ticket offer, race fans will have that chance...at least, virtually. Through the GameStop Racing package, race fans can purchase two tickets to the March 20 Jeff Byrd 500 Presented by Food City for $150 and receive a $20 GameStop gift card for free. Additionally, fans who buy four tickets for the March 19 Scotts EZ Seed 300 for $180 through the promotion also will receive a $20 GameStop gift card for free.
Race fans may want to put that GameStop gift card toward the purchase of NASCAR The Game 2011 when it releases for Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PlayStation3 computer entertainment system on March 29 and Wii on April 12. The game features all of the intensity of competing on the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series circuit and, even better for Bristol fans, the game's designers chose to put BMS on the cover to highlight what is found within the game.
Fans can live the ultimate motorsports experience in Bristol, and then take on the World's Fastest Half-Mile themselves in NASCAR The Game 2011 which is developed by Eutechnyx and published by Activision Publishing, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI). The game is rated E (Everyone) by the ESRB. For more information, visit www.NASCARTheGame.com. Anyone interested in the GameStop Racing ticket package can order by calling 1-866-415-4158 or by visiting www.gamestopracing.com/bristol.(BMS)(3-15-2011)

Every fan to get Cloud Cake at Bristol: Birthdays and anniversaries are always a lot of fun when large groups of people get together to celebrate. On March 20, however, the party at the Jeff Byrd 500 Presented by Food City will be the largest ever for the guests in attendance. Naturally, like any good party, Bristol Motor Speedway's 50th anniversary celebration March 20 will include cake. And thanks to Little Debbie, which also is celebrating its 50th anniversary, every fan through the gates that day will receive their own individually wrapped BMS cake.
Little Debbie will present every race fan a specially packaged Cloud Cake, marked with Bristol Motor Speedway's anniversary logo. Among the tens of thousands of cakes that will be doled out are 50 marked with a golden sticker. Fans holding the "Golden Ticket" cakes will receive two tickets to both the Food City 250 and the IRWIN Tools Night Race at BMS Aug. 26-27. They also will receive a $50 gift card from Food City, along with Little Debbie products. For more information concerning tickets, please visit www.bristoltix.com or call the BMS ticket office at 423-BRISTOL (274-7865).(BMS)(3-14-2011)

World's Fastest Half-Mile Speed Trials at Bristol: Ford NASCAR drivers in a street legal Mustang, a Tony Stewart-owned sprint car, two supermodifieds, and a world superbike champion will attempt to establish half-mile closed course records in the "World's Fastest Half-Mile Speed Trials" Saturday, March 19, immediately following the Scotts EZ Seed 300 NASCAR Nationwide Series race. As part of Bristol Motor Speedway's 50th anniversary celebration, the Speedway extended invitations to several motorsports champions from wide-ranging motorsports disciplines to set class half-mile closed-course records, as well as break the 11-year-old track record.
Former NASCAR Cup driver Brad Noffsinger, Mike Lichty and Bryan Clauson will chase Sammy Swindell's all-time Bristol track record of 138.442 mph (13.860 seconds), set during qualifying for a World Of Outlaws winged sprint car event at Bristol in June 2000. Noffsinger and Lichty will be first to try out supermodifieds, the most exotic cars to hit Bristol's high banks, while Clauson will run one of Tony Stewart's pavement sprint cars.
Former AMA and World Superbike Champion Scott Russell will attempt to set a half-mile closed-course motorcycle speed record riding a Yamaha superbike. The five-time Daytona 200 winner brings substantial experience on high banked ovals, though never one as tight as Bristol's half-mile.
Ford Racing enters its supercharged 2011 Mustang GT to Bristol to establish a half-mile closed course record for street legal cars. Ford NASCAR drivers David Ragan and Marcos Ambrose are expected to drive the ultimate "pony car" into the record books. The Mustang's 5.0 liter engine is topped off by Ford Racing's twin-screw supercharger and cranks out 624 horsepower. To balance all that power with more driver control, the factory suspension comes equipped with a FR3 handling pack and Ford Racing/Brembo big brake kit.
Competitors will have one hour, from approximately 5 until 6 p.m., to make record runs following the Scotts EZ Seed 300. The "World's Fastest Half-Mile Speed Trials" is a bonus event for the Nationwide Series race ticketholders. The Speed Trials will begin after the conclusion of the Scotts EZ Seed 300. The driver and car line-ups are subject to change.(BMS)(3-13-2011)

Billy Ray Cyrus to sing National Anthem for Jeff Byrd 500: Country music star Billy Ray Cyrus will sing the national anthem prior to the start of the Jeff Byrd 500 Presented by Food City March 20 at Bristol Motor Speedway. A multi-platinum selling artist who has released 11 albums and 38 singles over the last two decades, Cyrus has scored eight top-10 singles on the Billboard Country Songs chart. The Walt Disney Records label singer also will perform his hit "Some Gave All" during the pre-race show. Carter's Chord, composed of sisters Becky, Emily and Joanna Robertson, will sing the national anthem March 19 for the Scotts EZ Seed 300. Tickets for the Jeff Byrd 500 are available for $93, while tickets for the Scotts EZ Seed 300 (March 19) start at $45. Ford Fan Friday tickets (March 18) are only $5 and are just $4 for fans who have tickets to the Jeff Byrd 500. A March race weekend package for both the Scotts EZ Seed 300 and the Jeff Byrd 500 can be purchased for as low as $99. For more information concerning tickets, please visit www.bristoltix.com or call the BMS ticket office at 423-BRISTOL (274-7865).(BMS)(3-11-2011)

Pit Road Party Zone access available at Bristol: Gaining infield access at Bristol Motor Speedway is a top priority for many race fans. However, acquiring admission to the pit area has been very limited due to space restrictions - until the advent of the Pit Road Party Zone. Hundreds of fans enjoyed the Pit Road Party Zone last August and now it is available for the Jeff Byrd 500 Presented by Food City at BMS March 20. Located behind the backstretch pits of Bristol Motor Speedway, party guests have the best seats in the house and receive a number of special amenities, including elevated viewing platforms and appearances by Jeff Burton and other NASCAR celebrities. Pre-race entertainment will feature a live band, bar areas and each fan receives a commemorative BMS souvenir, lunch and snacks. Access to the Pit Road Party Zone, where grandstand tickets are not required, is limited to the first 300 fans. Cost is $400 per person. Tickets may be purchased by calling the BMS ticket office toll free at 1-866-415-4158 or 423-BRISTOL (274-7865).(BMS)(3-8-2011)

Buy a program at Bristol, get a poster: Collectors of Bristol Motor Speedway's souvenir programs are in for a special treat as both the March and August editions will commemorate the storied track's 50th anniversary. Both programs feature golden covers with numerous stories and photos that trace the history of the World's Fastest Half-Mile. And with the purchase of the program comes a one-of-a-kind poster that is sure to become a collector's item itself. The poster for the March race spotlights winners from the first 50 spring events at BMS, dating back to 1961. Legends such as Darrell Waltrip, Dale Earnhardt, Rusty Wallace, Cale Yarborough, David Pearson are featured, along with some of today's stars, like Jeff Gordon, Kurt Busch, Kyle Busch, Kevin Harvick and Jeff Burton. The August poster features all winners from Bristol Motor Speedway's second race.(BMS)(3-7-2011)

Food City Race Night at Bristol March 18: The star power for Food City Race Night at Bristol Motor Speedway continues to grow with the addition of Pepsi MAX driver Jeff Gordon. Gordon is scheduled to participate in a question and answer session Friday, March 18 in the hospitality area at 6 p.m. Gordon's teammate, five-time and defending Sprint Cup champ Jimmie Johnson, takes part in the evening's activities as well, as he attempts to dethrone two-time Wii Boxing champion Elliott Sadler. Others vying for the Bristol Motor Speedway Wii Boxing championship include Clint Bowyer, Marcos Ambrose, Bobby Labonte and David Reutimann. Wii Boxing gets under way at approximately 6:30. A second question and answer session begins at 6:30 p.m. with Jeff Burton, Brian Vickers, David Ragan, A.J. Allmendinger and Matt Kenseth. New this year to Food City Race Night is the BMS version of the Newlywed Game, set for approximately 7:30. Instead of husbands and wives playing the game, however, this game features drivers and crew chiefs. Among those competing is Kasey Kahne and Kenny Francis, Brad Keselowski and Paul Wolfe and Trevor Bayne and Donnie Wingo. Food City Race Night opens at 4 p.m. Various drivers sign autographs and show cars are on display, along with simulators and souvenir trailers. Live entertainment is featured, along with free food sampling.(BMS)(3-6-2011)

Byrd family named grand marshals of Jeff Byrd 500: Food City officials recently stunned the NASCAR community with their decision to forgo traditional entitlement rights, opting rather to name the March 20 Sprint Cup event the Jeff Byrd 500 Presented by Food City, in honor of the dynamic President and General Manager of Bristol Motor Speedway who passed away last October. Friday company officials announced that Byrd's wife of 36 years, Claudia, along with son Christian and daughter Belton Caldwell will serve as the event Grand Marshals.(BMS)(3-5-2011)

March 13-20 designated Jeff Byrd Week in Tennessee: Lt. Gov. Ron Ramsey spoke from the well of the Tennessee state Senate Thursday following the reading of a resolution honoring his late friend, Jeff Byrd, the longtime president and general manager of Bristol Motor Speedway, with a week in his honor. "Anybody who knew Jeff Byrd will never forget him," said Ramsey. "I have never seen anyone become a member of a community as quickly as Jeff Byrd did in Bristol. If Jeff Byrd had a fault, it was that he couldn't say no," Ramsey added. "He was always looking to help others and challenging those around him to do the same." The resolution, Senate Joint Resolution 89, designates March 13-20 as Jeff Byrd Week in Tennessee. Rep. Jon Lundberg also spoke from the well in honor of Mr. Byrd. Ramsey and Lundberg were joined in the well by Byrd's wife Claudia, his sister JoJo Davis and daughter Belton Caldwell. The resolution, once passed, will be framed and presented to the family prior to the annual spring race at the Bristol Motor Speedway. Longtime sponsor Food City has renamed the March 20 race the Jeff Byrd 500.(BMS)(3-4-2011)

Bud Tap Room Package available at Bristol: Some race fans prefer to sit in skyboxes during NASCAR events at Bristol Motor Speedway. Others believe the only place to be is in the grandstands. There also are those who wish they could have the best of both worlds. For that group, the Bud Tap Room package at Bristol Motor Speedway is the perfect compromise. Fans receive a grandstand seat, suite access as part of the Bud Tap Room package and a meet and greet with Budweiser driver and former BMS winner Kevin Harvick. The grandstand seating is located in the Wallace Tower with easy access to the climate-controlled Bud Tap Room suite. Ticket holders for the Bud Tap Room package will receive a $25 food and drink voucher for the weekend food and beverage will be available for purchase. Private restrooms also are available, along with closed-circuit television. The Bud Tap Room package is available for the March race weekend.(BMS)(3-3-2011)

Bristol Motor Speedway to host rally for Bayne Monday in Knoxville: Trevor Bayne has visited New York and California and several places in between over the last few days but no stop will be sweeter for the 20-year-old than the one he will make Monday when Bristol Motor Speedway, Food City and his hometown honor him in in downtown Knoxville. BMS, the track Bayne has been visiting since he was a small child, Food City and the City of Knoxville will host a rally for the Daytona 500 champion Monday at Knoxville Civic Auditorium and Coliseum from 3:15 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Originally planned for Market Square downtown in Bayne's hometown of Knoxville, Tenn., rally organizers with Bristol Motor Speedway, Food City and the City of Knoxville decided Friday afternoon to shift sites to the Mary Costa Plaza location. ESPN's Jerry Punch will be the emcee of the event, while a number of other city and state officials, as well as actor David Keith, a Knoxville native and legendary NASCAR car owners Eddie and Len Wood will participate in the event.(BMS)(2-27-2011)

March Cup race at Bristol named Jeff Byrd 500, Presented by Food City: To honor Jeff Byrd, the dynamic President and General Manager of Bristol Motor Speedway who passed away last October, Food City officials today announced the March 20 NASCAR Sprint Cup event at Bristol Motor Speedway will carry a new name. Known since 1992 as the Food City 500, the spring event at Bristol Motor Speedway for 2011 is billed as the Jeff Byrd 500, presented by Food City. "Jeff Byrd was more than a business partner, he was a true friend to our company, our associates and to me and my family personally," said Food City President and CEO Steven C. Smith. "He spent years putting his guests first and instilling that attitude in his team".
"We are all convinced that Jeff absolutely would not have wanted us to do this, as his focus was always on keeping the guests and sponsors of Bristol Motor Speedway front and center, but that's one of the reasons that this time, we're putting Jeff out front. It's only natural to honor someone who worked so hard to build this facility, this sport and this region." Bristol Motor Speedway Vice President and General Manager Jerry Caldwell said he was speechless when Smith made the offer to honor Byrd, who guided BMS and its employees for 15 years. "Right after we agreed to the partnership extension, Steve looked me right in the eye and said 'What are we going to do to honor Jeff?'" said Caldwell. "I told him we were talking about some different things and wanted to know what he had in mind. He said 'I want to name the race for him.'"
"I was blown away. Here was a guy who had just agreed to a three year contract extension -- and that's not free -- and was sitting there offering to give up the race name for a year. I absolutely didn't know what to say. It was Jeff who coached us to exceed expectations and it was his effort to stay in the background that made us all so aware of his presence."
AND Food City and Bristol Motor Speedway officials announced an agreement to continue their 20-year partnership into a third decade, extending for three more years the second-longest race sponsorship in NASCAR racing. Sponsor of both the Food City 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup race in March and the Food City 250 Nationwide event in August, 2011 will mark the 20th year the supermarket chain has served as the entitlement sponsor of these events. Only one other track in NASCAR has a longer such partnership. Food City's involvement at Bristol Motor Speedway goes beyond just race sponsorship. Food City Race Night on BMS property in March and on State Street in downtown Bristol in August are huge events that attract tens of thousands of race fans annually.
Bristol Motor Speedway kicks off its 50th NASCAR season with Ford Fan Friday qualifying March 18, followed by the Scotts EZ Seed 300 March 19 and the Jeff Byrd 500, Presented by Food City March 20. In August, night racing returns with the Aug. 24 O'Reilly Auto Parts 200 and UNOH Perfect Storm 150 doubleheader, followed by the Food City 250 Aug. 26 and the IRWIN Tools Night Race Aug. 27. Tickets are available to all events and may be purchased by calling the BMS ticket office toll free at 1-866-415-4158, 423-BRISTOL (274-7865) or 423-989-6900 or by visiting www.bristoltix.com.(BMS)(2-15-2011)

Bristol Chamber honors Jeff Byrd: Fighting back tears, Claudia Byrd composed herself enough to smile briefly for the cameras Wednesday while accepting recognition for her late husband. The Bristol Chamber of Commerce presented a posthumous lifetime achievement award and announced a new scholarship named in Jeff Byrd's honor, during its 101st annual awards celebration. Byrd, the former president and general manager of Bristol Motor Speedway who died in October after a battle with cancer, was praised for his leadership in civic, charitable and chamber affairs. He was a longtime member of the chamber's board of directors and a former board president. The new Jeff Byrd Exceeding Expectations Scholarship will be available to seniors at Virginia High and Tennessee High in Bristol, Sullivan East and Sullivan Central in Tennessee and John S. Battle High in Virginia. Other award winners included Lori Worley of Bristol Motor Speedway, who won the Convention and Visitors Bureau Service Award.(Bristol Herald Courier)(1-28-2011)

Area Hotels join with Bristol, drops rates, minimum nights: Five Tri-Cities area hotels, in partnership with Bristol Motor Speedway, lowered per-night room rates for 2011 and dropped a previous three-night minimum to two. The AmericInn Lodge & Suites in Jonesborough, Tenn., The Comfort Inn in Abingdon and Bristol, Va., The Comfort Suites in Abingdon, Va., and the Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites in Bristol, Va., lowered requirements for the coming racing season, the first properties to join the fan-friendly Bristol initiative. The participating hotels will be listed on the BMS website, in the BMS Magazine and named in mailings to ticket holders. Tickets are available to all events and may be purchased by calling the BMS ticket office toll free at 1-866-415-4158, 423-BRISTOL (274-7865) or 423-989-6900 or by visiting www.bristoltix.com.(BMS)(1-19-2011)

Visitors to the 14th season of AutoTrader.com Speedway In Lights powered by TVA have a number of holiday-themed activities to take advantage of while at Bristol Motor Speedway and Dragway. A new attraction this year, however, gives them the opportunity to see the largest display to be added in the event's 14-year history.
Symphony of Lights, a spectacular show consisting of more than 300,000 LED lights, clearly is the highlight of this season's event. Each light is synchronized to music, creating an amazing display, sure to delight young and old alike. The new dancing lights, located in the Darrell Waltrip Grandstand, are particularly entertaining for guests who take part in Christmas Village activities. The show, is programmed by Shadrack Productions to dance to a vairety holiday songs.
Proceeds from AutoTrader.com Speedway In Lights benefit the Bristol Chapter of Speedway Children's Charities, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds for children's agencies in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. The Bristol Chapter of SCC has raised in excess of $5.5 million since 1997.
Tickets for Speedway In Lights, open nightly 6-10 p.m., Nov. 19-Jan. 8, will be available at the BMS gate. Ticket prices for cars are $10 Sunday through Thursday, and $12 Friday and Saturday. Activity van tickets are $15 each night and bus tickets are $65 each night. For more information concerning Speedway In Lights, please call 423-989-6900. More info at Bristolmotorspeedway.com

Caldwell named GM of Bristol: Jerry Caldwell was named as General Manager of Bristol Motor Speedway and Dragway by Bruton Smith, Chairman and CEO of Speedway Motorsports Inc. Caldwell, most recently Vice President of Corporate Sales and Acting General Manager at BMS, fills the position held since 1996 by Jeff Byrd, who passed away Oct. 17. Caldwell joined the BMS Sales and Marketing Department in 1997, and was promoted to Vice President of Corporate Sales in 2009. A three-time salesperson-of-the-year at BMS, Caldwell also has been named BMS Employee of the Year and Speedway Motorsports Salesperson of the year. A native of Lexington, N.C., Caldwell is a 1997 graduate of King College in Bristol with a B.A. in Business. During his time at King, he also spent a summer studying at the International Business Institute in Europe. Caldwell and his wife, Belton, are the proud parents of four children and reside in Jonesborough, Tenn.(BMS)(11-1-2010)

Sad News - Jeff Byrd: Jeff Byrd, Bristol Motor Speedway and Dragway President and General Manager, passed away today [Oct. 17th] following a lengthy illness. He was 60. The dynamic Byrd, one of the most respected and admired leaders in racing, had been at the helm of BMS since January of 1996 when Speedway Motorsports, Inc., purchased the Bristol facility. Under his leadership, the track became the most popular venue on the NASCAR tour. Prior to his move to BMS, Byrd served 23 years in the sports marketing department at R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., departing as vice president of business development. He began his career as a sportswriter at the Winston-Salem Journal.
Byrd is survived by his wife of 36 years, Claudia, daughter Belton Caldwell and her husband Jerry, son Christian Byrd and his wife Amy, seven grandchildren and an extended family of more than 70 fellow employees.
"From his days as a sportswriter to his time at R.J. Reynolds to the last 14 years, Jeff Byrd was one of the greatest promoters both stock car and drag racing has known," said Speedway Motorsports Chairman and CEO O. Bruton Smith. "To say his passing leaves a void would be an understatement. Simply put, Jeff got it. He understood that more than what happened on the track, it was the experience that fans took home with them that stayed in their memories. And those fans, and the people he worked with at Bristol Motor Speedway, were truly like family to him. Because of the mindset that he possessed, Jeff will stay in our hearts and memories forever. "
A 35-year veteran in the sports marketing profession, Byrd was involved in the development and implementation of a multitude of sports and event marketing programs across the sports spectrum. Byrd was extremely active in numerous civic organizations and had made a tremendous impact in the Tri-Cities community, as well as his church, First Presbyterian in Kingsport, where he was a longtime member. He was involved with a number of charitable groups and he and his wife Claudia organized and spearheaded the Bristol Chapter of Speedway Children's Charities, a non-profit agency dedicated to aiding children in need in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. A native of Winston-Salem, N.C., Byrd received his B.A. degree in history and politics from Wake Forest University.(Bristol Motor Speedway), Funeral arrangements are pending.(10-17-2010)
SERVICES: Service Arrangements for Jeff Byrd - Jeff's family invites his friends to join them in celebrating Jeff's life at 11:00 am Wednesday, October 20, 2010 at Grace Fellowship Church, 2314 South Greenwood Drive, Johnson City, Tennessee with Dr. Greg Jordan and Dr. David Cagle officiating. A community appreciation service will be held at 11:00 am Thursday morning, October 21, 2010 in the infield at Bristol Motor Speedway. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Jeff Byrd Foundation, c/o Kingsport Community Foundation, 625 Market Street, Suite 1400, Knoxville, TN 37902. Donations also can be made through the website at www.easttennesseefoundation.org.(10-18-2010)

List of Driver song selections for driver intros: Bristol Motor Speedway is continuing a popular new tradition on Saturday night: Each NASCAR driver will pick a song to be played when he walks out for pre-race introductions. Here is the list of songs for this year:
* AJ Allmendinger: "Bad Company" / Five Finger Death Punch
* Bobby Labonte: "What Do Ya Think About That" / Montgomery Gentry
* Brad Keselowski: "For Those About To Rock" / AC/DC
* Carl Edwards: (Secret until Saturday night)
* Casey Mears: TBA
* Clint Bowyer: "Modern Day Bonnie And Clyde" / Travis Tritt
* Dale Earnhardt Jr.: (Secret until Saturday night)
* Dave Blaney: TBA
* David Gilliland: "I Get It In" / 50 Cent
* David Ragan: "Thunderstruck" / AC/DC
* David Reutimann: "The Game" / Motorhead
* Denny Hamlin: "I'm Shipping Up To Boston" / Dropkick Murphys
* Elliott Sadler: Opening to "2001: A Space Odyssey"
* Greg Biffle: "For Whom The Bell Tolls" / Metallica
* JJ Yeley: TBA
* Jamie McMurray: "I'm Gonna Miss Her" / Brad Paisley
* Jeff Burton: "Welcome To The Jungle" / Guns N' Roses
* Jeff Gordon: "Let's Go" / Trick Daddy
* Jeff Green: TBA
* Jimmie Johnson: "Funky Cold Medina" / Tone Loc
* Joe Nemechek: "Born To To Be Wild" / Steppenwolf
* Joey Logano: "Play That Funky Music" / Wild Cherry
* Juan Pablo Montoya: "Saturday Night's Alright For Fighting" / Nickelback
* Kasey Kahne: "Pretty Good At Drinkin' Beer" / Billy Currington
* Kevin Harvick: "Jump Around" / House of Pain
* Kevin LePage: "Juke Box Hero" / Foreigner
* Kurt Busch: "This Afternoon" / Nickelback
* Kyle Busch: "Rowdy Busch" / 2012 f. Raytona 500
* Landon Cassill: TBA
* Marcos Ambrose: "Black Betty" / Spiderbait
* Mark Martin: (Secret until Saturday night)
* Martin Truex Jr.: "All About Tonight" / Blake Shelton
* Matt Kenseth: "Miracle" / Nonpoint
* Max Papis: "Fuel" / Metallica
* Michael McDowell: "Earthquake" / Family Force 5
* Mike Bliss: TBA
* Paul Menard: "Cowboys From Hell" / Pantera
* Reed Sorenson: "Not Afraid" / Eminem
* Regan Smith: "Welcome To The Family" / Avenged Sevenfold
* Robby Gordon: "Not Afraid" / Eminem
* Ryan Newman: TBA / Bridgette Tatum
* Sam Hornish Jr.: "Kickstart My Heart" / Motley Crue
* Scott Speed: "OMG" / Usher f. Will.i.am
* Todd Bodine: Theme for "The Three Stooges"
* Tony Raines: "Last Dance With Mary Jane" / Tom Petty
* Tony Stewart: "Bawitdaba" / Kid Rock
* Travis Kvapil: "Bodies" / Drowning Pool
(SB Nation/Jeff Gluck)(8-20-2010)

IRWIN Tools Challenge Winner to Serve as Grand Marshal at Bristol: As a result of capturing the North American Championship of the 2010 IRWIN Tools Ultimate Tradesman Challenge Friday night at Bristol Motor Speedway, Brandon, Mississippi's Delwyn Thornton will serve as the Grand Marshal for tonight's inaugural IRWIN Industrial Tools Night Race at the World's Fastest Half Mile. Thornton, a shoe repairman and the owner of Soles and Heels Shoe Repair for over 27 years, will give the command for the 43 drivers to "Start Your Engines." The IRWIN Tools Ultimate Tradesman Challenge, a skill-based competition that travelled across the U.S. and Canada for more than 50 events, challenged professional tradesmen to perform a series of precise tasks-such as gripping, sawing, marking, clamping and drilling-in a race against the clock. A total of 23 local competitors won an all-expenses-paid trip to Bristol, in addition to an IRWIN tool bag packed with IRWIN tools and genuine Cat footwear, to compete in the North American Championship, which was held Friday in BMS's Exhibit Area. Thornton completed the Challenge in 28.50 seconds, edging out Frank Blatz (Abbotsford, BC), who was clocked at 30.75 seconds. In addition to having the opportunity to say NASCAR's most famous words prior to the start of the race, Thornton won a year's supply of Cat footwear and a custom IRWIN Tools Mustang GT Premium Pace Car - the official pace car of the IRWIN Tools Night Race. Thornton advances to the World Finals in March of 2011, again at Bristol Motor Speedway, where six tradesmen from around the world will compete to become the Worldwide IRWIN Tools Ultimate Tradesman. The tradesman with the top time will win the grand prize - a chance to win $1 million.(Irwin Tools)(8-21-2010)

Byrd to miss weekend activities at Bristol: Bristol Motor Speedway president and general manager Jeff Byrd continues a steady recovery after being sidelined recently by illness. Byrd, who will miss the IRWIN Tools Night Race activities this weekend, recently completed another round of treatments and is making remarkable progress, according to his doctors. "Our race fans, who are the best in the sport, know how much I want to be there this weekend, especially with it being our 100th Cup race," said Byrd, who has continued to come into the office between treatments. "We thought at first, the treatment calendar was going to work, but then we realized it wasn't. Believe me, not being able to be there to see all my friends is disappointing. It's what we work so hard for all year - and what Bruton pays us to do. But, I have a lot to be thankful for right now. My recovery is going extremely well and my doctors are very happy. Of course, things aren't progressing quickly enough for me, but anybody who knows me can tell you that I'm not exactly a patient person. Claudia and I, and my entire family, have truly been overwhelmed by the prayers and support and couldn't be more thankful. If all the fans could continue to keep me in their prayers I would be grateful. I just want them to have a great weekend while they soak in the amazing Bristol experience. That's the best medicine I could ask for."(BMS)......get well Jeff! (8-20-2010)

Salute To Military Planned Prior To IRWIN Tools Night Race: Bristol Motor Speedway will proudly pay homage to our country's greatest heroes with a military salute prior to the IRWIN Tools Night Race Aug. 21. Military anthems from all branches of the armed services - the Army, Air Force, Marines, Navy and Coast Guard - will be played as flags of each branch are flown in, via parachutists. Fans in the military who currently serve, are veterans, or who have family members who are serving or who have served in the past, will be asked to stand and be recognized.
Bristol Motor Speedway's fans will play a key role in the patriotic salute. Upon entering BMS that evening, they will be given a red, white or blue towel, which also commemorates the 100th Sprint Cup race at BMS. Once the flags have been flown in, fans will be asked to stand and wave their towels in unison to honor America and our military members.
Two CH-53E helicopters from Marine Corps Air Station in Cherry Point, N.C. will then fly over Bristol Motor Speedway, followed by the playing of God Bless the USA, at which time a parachutist will fly in, carrying the American flag. A pair of Harrier jets from the USMC VMFA-223 unit in Cherry Point will then perform a flyover.
Presentation of the Colors will be provided by the Special Ceremonies Team Color Guard from the 14th Weather Squadron from Asheville, N.C. Ruth Graham, daughter of evangelist Billy Graham, will give the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegience, led by Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy. Children of NASCAR drivers, with assistance from Motor Racing Outreach, will sing the national anthem.
A 60' x 90' American flag will be displayed on the BMS front stretch as the anthem is sung and fireworks will go off around the track. At the conclusion of the anthem, the Washington D.C. Air National Guard's 121st Fighter Squadron [F-16's] from Joint Base Andrews will perform the final flyover. To purchase tickets, please contact the BMS ticket office at its toll free number 1-866-415-4158 or 423-BRISTOL (274-7865). Tickets also are available at www.bristoltix.com.(8-20-2010)

Bristol Transporter Parade: Fans line Bristol's Volunteer Parkway as NASCAR's multi-million dollar transporters make their way to "The World's Fastest Half-Mile." Fans may not know the names of these drivers, but they certainly recognize the colorful vehicles they pilot through Bristol during the wildly popular Ford/Bristol Motor Speedway Transporter Parade. One of a number of entertaining and fun-filled special events that takes place at BMS during August race week, the Transporter Parade, which is Thursday evening, Aug. 19, is truly a fan favorite. Thousands of fans in the area for the four NASCAR races at BMS that week come out early, staking their claim on their chosen viewing position along the 10-mile route from Bristol Mall to "The World's Fastest Half-Mile." Many of the haulers also will carry a child from either the Make A Wish Foundation or the Children's Miracle Network.
The parade starts at 9:00pm/et at the Bristol Mall, following completion of downtown Bristol's Food City Race Night. More than 60 haulers then will make their way from the mall down Volunteer Parkway to BMS. The transporter leading the way will be the one belonging to the leader of the NASCAR Sprint Cup point standings heading into the IRWIN Tools Night Race, currently Kevin Harvick. To add to the parade's atmosphere, fireworks will light up the night from four different points along the route. The transporter drivers will be available prior to the start of the parade to sign autographs at the Bristol Mall. There also will be face painting for children, along with a "5-In-1 Sport" jump playhouse.(BMS)(8-19-2010)

Wilkes County Bristol Stop: Set in the Brushy Mountains of western North Carolina, lays Wilkes County with a deep history of NASCAR. It is the site of the North Wilkesboro Speedway which hosted NASCAR events for 50 years. This year on the way to Bristol for the races Wilkes County will be hosting the First Annual "Bristol Stop" on race weekend, Wilkes County hotels will be offering deeply discounted hotels at several of the local hotels that include, Wilkesboro Holiday Inn, Addison Inn, and the Hampton Inn all in the Town of Wilkesboro and close to the North Wilkesboro Speedway, and within 2 hours of Bristol, TN. Anyone stopping in town on race weekend with a Bristol ticket will be able to take their ticket down to the North Wilkesboro Speedway and take a lap around the track in your street car. Also that weekend on August 21st at 7:00pm, Tim Dugger will be performing in concert at West Wilkes High School, tickets prices are $10 each and will be available during check-in at all participating hotels, all proceeds from the Tim Dugger concert will go to the Benny Parsons Athletic Complex to be built at West Wilkes High School. More info at savethespeedway.net.(8-18-2010)

Bristol names National Anthem singers: Southern pop artist Jessie James will sing the national anthem prior to the start of the Food City 250 Aug. 20, while the children of NASCAR drivers again will sing prior to the IRWIN Tools Night Race Aug. 21. The Mercury Records star recently released her second album, "Boys in the Summer," which is already making its way up both pop and country charts. Always one of the most popular groups to sing the anthem, the children of NASCAR drivers, with assistance from Motor Racing Outreach, will sing prior to the start of the IRWIN Tools Night Race Saturday night.(BMS)(8-17-2010)

Bristol announces 2001 race dates: NASCAR's two Sprint Cup and Nationwide races at Bristol Motor Speedway will remain in March and August in 2011, with the August date moving back one week. Bristol Motor Speedway, NASCAR's most popular track, returns to its customary August race date, the weekend prior to the Labor Day holiday, Aug. 26-27. NASCAR kicks off the BMS spring weekend with Ford Fan Friday March 18, followed by the Scotts Turf Builder 300 Nationwide Series event March 19, and the Food City 500 Sprint Cup race March 20.(BMS)(8-11-2010)

Bristol single event tickets on sale: For the first time in nearly two decades, fans now may purchase single-event tickets to NASCAR's most popular Sprint Cup event, the IRWIN Tools Night Race. The Aug. 21 running of the IRWIN Tools Night Race is a major milestone for Bristol Motor Speedway as the World's Fastest Half-Mile will host its 100th Cup race. The first 500-lap NASCAR race at BMS took place July 30, 1961. A limited number of tickets for the incomparable Saturday night show, voted by fans as the most popular race on the NASCAR schedule, are available for $109 each. These single-event tickets are renewable. Fans also may purchase a three-day package, which features four NASCAR races. Action kicks off Aug. 18 with the O'Reilly 200 Camping World Truck Series race and the UNOH Perfect Storm Whelen Modified doubleheader. Also in the package are the Food City 250 Nationwide event Friday night, Aug. 20, and the showcase race Aug. 21, the IRWIN Tools Night Race. To purchase, please contact the BMS ticket office at its toll free number 1-866-415-4158 or 423-BRISTOL (274-7865). Tickets may also be purchased at www.bristoltix.com.(BMS)(5-9-2010)

Bristol August Race Weekend packages on sale now: Racing under the lights at Bristol Motor Speedway in August. Nothing else on the NASCAR schedule comes close to mirroring that kind of excitement or such a unique atmosphere. NASCAR's most coveted ticket to its wildly popular Sprint Cup event, the IRWIN Tools Night Race, along with its companion events, is now on sale at Bristol Motor Speedway. A three-day package features 1,100 laps of non-stop action at the World's Fastest Half-Mile. Included is the Aug. 18 Wednesday night doubleheader, the O'Reilly 200 (Camping World Truck) and the UNOH Perfect Storm 150 (Whelen Modified), the Food City 250 (Nationwide) Aug. 20 and the showcase event Aug. 21, the IRWIN Tools Night Race. Fans who can only attend the Friday and Saturday night races also may purchase a two-race package for the Food City 250 and IRWIN Tools Night Race. Packages for all three days start at only $170 while pricing for the two-day package begins at $126. To purchase, please contact the BMS ticket office at 423-BRISTOL (274-7865) or visit www.bristolmotorspeedway.com.(BMS)(3-28-2010)

No sellout for Bristol, first since 1982: According to figures provided by NASCAR, an estimated total of 138,000 attended Sunday's Food City 500 Sprint Cup race at Bristol Motor Speedway. Unofficial estimates placed the figure closer to 120,000 on the overcast and chilly afternoon. Entering the weekend, the 160,000-seat facility had been sold out for 55 straight Sprint Cup events. The NASCAR attendance estimate for Saturday's Scotts Turf Builder 300 Nationwide Series race was 85,000. Crowds of over 100,000 have attended the Nationwide races at BMS in recent years. Many fans have complained that the excitement level of BMS events has been diminished since the .533-concrete oval underwent an extensive 2007 resurfacing project which gave competitors more room to maneuver. That sentiment remerged Monday morning on various NASCAR message boards and talk shows, even though Sunday's Food City 500 featured 29 lead changes, 10 caution periods and a 10-lap dash to the finish. According to BMS Vice President of Public Affairs Kevin Triplett, the biggest hurdle facing BMS the past two years has been the slumping national economy. Triplett feels that the thousands of empty seats this past weekend were emblematic of the financial challenges in NASCAR hotbeds around the Midwest and Northeast. "As far as winning back fans, more than 60% of the ones we surveyed who did not renew their tickets said it was for economic reasons," Triplett said. The August Sprint Cup race at BMS remains one of the most popular events in motorsports. Speedway officials have attempted to generate renewed interest for their March race program by holding the Food City Race Night program on track property and by introducing a 35-lap charity event for retired NASCAR drivers on Saturday night. "There are other things - lodging costs, people out of work - that are factors that are out of our hands," Triplett said. (Bristol Herald Courier), The speedway's record streak of 55 sellouts began back in August 1982 - when the track could accommodate a mere 30,000 fans.(Bristol Herald Courier)(3-23-2010)

Song Drivers were introduced to at the Food City 500 at Bristol Motor Speedway:
AJ Allmendinger .... "Last Resort'' by Papa Roach
Aric Almirola .... "Back in Black'' by AC/DC
Bobby Labonte ... "People are Crazy'' by Billy Currington
Brad Keselowski ... "Won't Back Down'' by Tom Petty
Brian Vickers ... "Whatever Happened'' by OAR
Carl Edwards ... "Black Betty'' by Spiderbait
Casey Mears ... "Wild Side'' by Motley Crue
Clint Bowyer ... "Burning Love'' by Elvis Presley
David Ragan ... "The Devil Went Down to Georgia'' by Charlie Daniels
David Reutimann ... "The Game'' by Motor Head
Denny Hamlin .. "Theme from Rocky''
Elliott Sadler ... "2001: A Space Odyssey Theme'''
Greg Biffle ... "Welcome to the Jungle'' by Guns N' Roses
Jamie McMurray ... "Let It Rock'' by Kevin Rudoph featuring Lil Wayne
Jeff Burton ... "Welcome to the Jungle'' by Guns N' Roses
Jeff Gordon ... "Boom, Boom, Pow'' by Black Eyed Peas
Jimmie Johnson ... "Ramble On'' by Led Zepplin
Juan Pablo Montoya ... "Goin' The Distance'' by Cake
Kasey Kahne ... "Bulls on Parade'' by Rage Against the Machine
Kevin Conway ... "Big Time'' by Peter Gabriel
Kevin Harvick ... "Rollin -- Airraid Vehicle'' by LImp Bizkit
Kurt Busch ... "Dukes of Hazard Theme song'' by Waylon Jennings
Kyle Busch ... "Amazing'' by Kanye West
Marcos Ambrose ... "Thunderstruck'' by AC/DC
Maritn Truex Jr. ... "NAPA Know How Jingle''
Matt Kenseth ... "Whisky Hangover'' by Godsmack
Paul Menard ... "Paradise City'' by Guns N' Roses
Regan Smith ... "Fight for Your Right'' by Beastie Boys
Robby Gordon ... "Some Beach'' by Blake Shelton
Ryan Newman ... "Hillbilly Rockstar'' by Bridgette Tatum
Sam Hornish Jr. ... "Bad Habit'' by Offspring
Scott Speed ... "Loveshack'' by B-52s
Tony Stewart ... "Eastbound and Down'' by Jerry Reed
Travis Kvapil ... "Kickstart My Heart'' by Motley Crue
Joey Logano ... "Crank dat'' by Soldier Boys
David Gilliland ... "I Got a Feeling'' by Black Eyed Peas
Terry Cook ... "Don't Look Back'' by Boston
Joe Nemechek ... "Boot Scotin Boogie'' by Brooks and Dunn
Mike Bliss ... "Rise Above This'' by Seether
Michael Waltrip .. "Hillbilly Bone'' by Blake Shelton
Dave Blaney ... "Let's Get This Party Started''
Mark Martin ... "If You Want Blood" by AC/DC
Dale Earnhardt Jr. ... Runnin' with the Devil by Van Halen
(Virginian Pilot)(3-21-2010)

Update On Jeff Byrd From Bristol Motor Speedway: Bristol Motor Speedway officials issued an update on the status of President and General Manager Jeff Byrd, who recently took a leave of absence to deal with a medical matter. Byrd's condition, which will prevent him from involvement in this weekend's Food City 500 activities, has been identified and doctors last week began specific treatment. "Things are going well, "said Byrd. "It is going to be very difficult for me not to be at Bristol Motor Speedway this weekend to be with more than 150,000 of my closest friends. But I will be there in spirit and as I have said before, I expect to see everyone in August (for the second NASCAR weekend at Bristol). "Claudia, the rest of the family and I have been overwhelmed by everyone's thoughts and prayers. I hope they keep it up and appreciate so many people coming to Bristol this weekend."(BMS)(3-19-2010)

The NTL heads back to the Earhart Campground at Bristol: After hosting one of the most successful tailgating events of the 2009 inaugural season, The National Tailgating League is heading back to the Earhart Campground of Bristol, TN for an even bigger and better experience! The National Tailgating League (The NTL) presented by Budweiser announced today that Bristol, Tenn., will host the NTL's second stop of ten on this year's NTL NASCAR tour, hosting the campgrounds cornhole tournaments and more new exciting elements for our fans. Held in the heart of the Earhart campground, The NTL will host various tournaments starting Friday March 19th through Sunday the 21st, providing race related prizes and cash purse tournaments. More info at TheNTL.com.(NTL)(3-18-2010)

Local Business Will Help NASCAR Fans Take A Trip Down Memory Lane: Time machines. Imaginations have run wild for years about the possibilities of vehicles capable to transport people back in time. One Bristol business has found the solution and will have 12 of those machines ready for drivers like Cale Yarborough and David Pearson to race in the March 20 Scotts EZ Seed Showdown at Bristol Motor Speedway. Okay, so they technically are not time machines, but Modern D-Signs, located on Volunteer Parkway in Bristol, has created a few looks for race cars that definitely will remind people of NASCAR's past. Kurt Kummer, owner of Modern D-Signs, and his staff have taken USAR Pro Cup machines and transformed them into the cars of yesteryear. Each car features one of the paint schemes made famous by the legendary driver behind the wheel for the event. The expert crew at Modern D-Signs can wrap one race car during an eight-hour day. They can go faster if they are pushed, but prefer to limit themselves to one a day. That's a long way from when cars were hand lettered and painted. But although turning back the hands of time to make these cars look similar to their predecessors of yesteryear may be more reliant on technology these days, it still stirs emotion. When Kummer's crew sees drivers like Harry Gant, Charlie Glotzbach and Dave Marcis piloting their works of art, the feeling of pride is obvious around the shop.
Race fans can see the work of Modern D-Signs as Bristol Motor Speedway takes a trip back in time during the Scotts EZ Seed Showdown. Tickets are available for Food City 500 weekend. A package, consisting of Ford Fan Friday qualifying (March 19), the Scotts Turf Builder 300 and the Scotts EZ Seed Showdown (March 20) and the March 21 Food City 500, is available, starting at only $99. For fans who can only attend the Food City 500, single day tickets may be purchased, starting at $93. Tickets for Saturday's doubleheader start at just $45 while fans can watch Ford Fan Friday qualifying for only $5, then attend Food City Race Night at BMS for free.(BMS PR)(3-18-2010)

Bristol has largest seating capacity of SMI tracks: Bristol Motor Speedway has the largest grandstand capacity of any of the Speedway Motorsports Inc. tracks, according to the company's annual report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Bristol's seating capacity remained at 158,0000. Texas Motor Speedway, which was also at 158,000, now stands at 137,000 seats (not including the infield) after the removal of 21,000 seats. Charlotte Motor Speedway also has cut seats from 156,000 to 146,000. Six of the SMI tracks have the same seating capacity as a year ago: Bristol, Las Vegas (131,000), Atlanta (101,000), New Hampshire (96,000), Kentucky (69,000) and Infineon (47,000). Bristol ranks third among all NASCAR Sprint Cup tracks in seating capacity, behind Indianapolis (approximately 250,000) and Daytona (159,000).(Scene Daily)(3-16-2010)

Ticket's available for Bristol races: Tickets are available for Food City 500 weekend. A package, consisting of Ford Fan Friday qualifying (March 19), the Scotts Turf Builder 300 and the Scotts EZ Seed Showdown (March 20) and the March 21 Food City 500, is available, starting at only $99. For fans who can only attend the Food City 500, single day tickets may be purchased, starting at $93. Tickets for Saturday's doubleheader start at just $45, while fans can watch Ford Fan Friday qualifying for only $5, then attend Food City Race Night at BMS for free. A season ticket package featuring nine events during the March and August NASCAR weekends starts at only $199. The package includes the two most popular Sprint Cup races in the sport, along with a pair of Nationwide events, a Camping Truck Series race, the Scotts EZ Seed Showdown, a Whelen Modified event, qualifying and Food City Race Night. For more information concerning tickets, please visit www.bristoltix.com or call the BMS ticket office at 423-BRISTOL (274-7865).(BMS)(3-10-2010)

"Stone Cold" Steve Austin named Food City 500 grand marshal: World Wrestling Federation superstar "Stone Cold" Steve Austin has been named Grand Marshal for the Food City 500 at Bristol Motor Speedway on Sunday, March 21, 2010. The 45-year-old Austin is a six-time WWF Champion, an Intercontinental and World Tag Team Champion, three-time Royal Rumble Match winner, King of the Ring winner and three-time WWE Championship at WrestleMania winner. Austin retired from professional wrestling in 2003. Always the entertainer, he turned his attention to acting. In 2010, he will be seen on the big screen starring opposite Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham and Jet Li in The Expendables. Tickets are available for race weekend and may be purchased by calling the BMS ticket office toll-free at 1.866.415.4158 or bristolmotorspeedway.com.(BMS)(3-9-2010)

Jason Witten named Honorary Starter of Food City 500: Dallas Cowboy standout Jason Witten has been named the Honorary Starter for the Food City 500 at Bristol Motor Speedway Sunday, March 21. The 6-foot-5, 263-pound Witten, a six-time Pro Bowl selection, is originally from Elizabethton, Tenn., just 15 minutes away from the World's Fastest Half-Mile. Witten, always excited about making a trip home, is looking forward to taking part in the Food City 500. The 27-year-old Witten was a standout at Elizabethton High School and was the USA Today Player of the Year in Tennessee in 2000 before signing with the University of Tennessee where he starred for three years. In 2001 Witten was drafted in the third round by the Dallas Cowboys and became an instant star. One of the premier tight ends in the NFL, Witten finished the 2009 season with 94 catches and 1,030 yards. Tickets are available for race weekend and may be purchased by calling the BMS ticket office toll-free at 1.866.415.4158 or bristolmotorspeedway.com.(BMS)(3-9-2010)

Official Statement From BMS Regarding Jeff Byrd: Bristol Motor Speedway officials announced today President and General Manager Jeff Byrd has taken a leave of absence to undergo tests and treatment for a recently-discovered medical matter. It will prevent him from involvement in the upcoming Food City 500 weekend [March 19-21]. Byrd recently went through a series of tests and his doctors are encouraged that the condition is limited to one area and is treatable. "I fully intend to be back on the job as soon as the doctors say it is ok," said Byrd. "I appreciate everyone's thoughts and prayers and will miss being at the track for the Food City 500 weekend. I have said for years I have the best team in motorsports and things are in good hands." Byrd and his family have asked for prayers and privacy at this time.(BMS)(3-2-2010

Bristol Motor Speedway adds more SAFER walls: Bristol Motor Speedway officials announced the addition of more than 160 feet of SAFER barriers. Track operations personnel extended SAFER (Steel And Foam Energy Reduction) barriers at the exits of Turns 2 and 4. Work began last week and will be complete before NASCAR teams arrive for the Food City 500 weekend, March 19-21. "We believe with these modifications, we will not only increase driver safety, but will also create a different transition at the exit of the turns," said Jeff Byrd, BMS President and General Manager. "While we don't know exactly how this will impact the racing, the more confined racing area should create less elbow room and tighten up the racing groove at those points." A deteriorating track surface forced officials in the summer of 2007 to put down a fresh layer of concrete and an additional four feet of width to the racing groove was part of the change. The modifications will eliminate some of that added room. "Without question, this extra four feet added room and aided in creating three and, at times, even four-wide racing," Byrd said. "However, while it is breathtaking, many of our fans have responded that we went too far, in actuality, giving too much racing room to the greatest drivers in the world." For more information concerning tickets, please visit www.bristoltix.com or call the BMS ticket office at 423-BRISTOL (274-7865).(BMS)(2-24-2010)

Four more drivers added to Bristol Legends race: Bristol Motor Speedway officials announced the addition of four more drivers to the lineup for the March 20 running of the Scotts EZ Seed Showdown. Dave Marcis, a veteran of 883 Cup Series races, and Tommy Houston, a mainstay of the NASCAR Nationwide Series, will make their debuts in the exciting event which was a huge fan favorite a year ago. Jimmy Hensley, the Virginia Gentleman, also will make his first start in the race, while Phil Parsons returns after competing last season. The fans also will enjoy seeing Marcis' trademark wingtips once more. "I'll be wearing them," he said proudly. "I wore a pair when I ran my last cup race in Daytona in February 2002 and I'll have a pair on in Bristol." Cale Yarborough, Charlie Glotzbach, Jack Ingram and L.D. Ottinger were announced in August as the first 2010 Scotts EZ Seed Showdown competitors. The final four drivers will be announced at a later date.(Bristol PR)(1-28-2010)

BMS wins $397,000 tax case: A Nashville judge has ruled that Bristol Motor Speedway does not have to pay a $397,000 tax assessment from the state of Tennessee. Chancellor Ellen Hobbs Lyle, in an order unsealed Friday, ruled in a dispute over money the racetrack brings in from the broadcast of NASCAR races. The speedway last year challenged the assessment, claiming the state Department of Revenue was illegally taxing the track. Speedway officials argued that television rights are intangible and that any money derived from the sale of them is not subject to Tennessee sales or business taxes. The suit also claimed the state wrongfully taxed the speedway for money it makes from mailing fees on tickets and from leasing space to vendors. Lyle wrote that the assessments "do not fall into the category of tangible personal property." The judge also ruled that "the relationship ... from the NASCAR agreement is more in the nature of a joint venture than contract of service by the (track) to NASCAR."(Kingsport Times News)(10-19-2009)

New title sponsor for Bristol fall race UPDATE: but been told Irwin Tools will replace Sharpie as the race title sponsor for next August's Sprint Cup race at Bristol Motor Speedway and will be known as the Irwin Tools 500. Also, supposedly Irwin Tools does not know if it will sponsor a car/driver in 2010 [from the PR below, it does not sound like they will sponsor a car]. It currently serves as the primary sponsor for 11 Sprint Cup races on Roush Fenway Racing's #26 Ford that Jamie McMurray drives. That team will close up or move to Yates Racing in 2010, with either McMurray as the driver or another driver.
UPDATE: IRWIN Tools, a Newell Rubbermaid [also owns Sharpie] company and manufacturer and distributor of a broad line of professional hand tools and power tool accessories, announced that it will be the title sponsor of the IRWIN Tools Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway beginning in 2010. While the event's new name is unique - the "IRWIN Tools Night Race" - the summer classic under the lights at Bristol will continue to be 500 grueling laps around the high banks of the .533-mile oval, one of NASCAR's most popular and storied facilities. A spectacle in sports since 1961, Bristol has had 55 consecutive NASCAR Sprint Cup Series sellouts, dating back to 1982. "We could not have constructed a better partnership than one between IRWIN Tools and Bristol Motor Speedway," said IRWIN President Neil Eibeler. "Like our many IRWIN products, Bristol leads the way in innovation, quality and ingenuity among NASCAR venues. We can't wait to see the blue and yellow colors of IRWIN Tools here for years to come. Our employees are thrilled and our customers will be waiting in anticipation to see nearly 160,000 fans in the stands next year for the first 'IRWIN Night Race at Bristol,' the most popular NASCAR race of the year." IRWIN Tools takes over the entitlement from Sharpie, a sister company under the Newell Rubbermaid umbrella, which has sponsored the race since 2001.
"We're very happy to keep the Night Race in the Newell Rubbermaid family," said Jeff Byrd, President and General Manager of BMS, NASCAR's fastest half-mile. "We have gotten to know the IRWIN Tools team and their desire is to be the best technological company in the tool business. We feel we have the best facility in our sport so pairing up the two can only result in success. We look forward to a wonderful partnership and future together." The IRWIN Tools name has been a mainstay in NASCAR since 2003, serving as a primary car sponsor for Roush Fenway Racing. During that span, drivers Kurt Busch and Jamie McMurray both won races in IRWIN Tools Fords while Busch carried IRWIN to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Championship in 2004. "It's been a great ride with Roush Fenway Racing," said Eric Pinkham, Newell Rubbermaid's Vice President, Sponsorship and Event Marketing. "They clearly helped us put IRWIN Tools on the map and we appreciate what they've done for the IRWIN brand. Now it's time for a new chapter for IRWIN and we can't wait to get started on the IRWIN Tools Night Race at Bristol." The 2010 IRWIN Tools Night Race at Bristol will be on Saturday, August 21. For more information, call 1-800-GO-IRWIN or visit www.irwin.com.(BMS)(8-22-2009)

Full Driver song list for Bristol: Bristol Motor Speedway will give fans something different during drive interoductions Saturday night. They'll play music for each driver that the driver has selected. Some of the choices are interesting from those older rock n' roll classics to more recent tunes. Here's the playlist for ALL of the drivers:
Tony Stewart: Kid Rock's "Bawitdaba''
Dale Earnhardt Jr.: AC/DC's "Thunderstruck''
Jimmie Johnson: AC/DC's Thunderstruck
Mark Martin: AC/DC's "For Those About To Rock''
Jeff Gordon: Rolling Stones' "Start Me Up''
Jeff Burton: Guns N' Roses' "Welcome to the Jungle''
Carl Edwards: House of Pain's "Jump Around''
Matt Kenseth: "Godsmack's "The Enemy''
Scott Speed: "Black Eyed Peas' "Boom, Boom, Pow"
Kurt Busch: Cake's "Going The Distance''
Kyle Busch: Kanye West's "Amazing''
Kasey Kahne: Dierks Bentley's "Life On The Run''
Michael Waltrip: Toby Keith's "As Good As I Once Was''
Ryan Newman: Big & Rich's "Save A Horse, Ride A Cowboy''
Clint Bowyer: Elvis Presley's "CC Rider''
Reed Sorenson: Michael Jackson's "Billy Jean''
Denny Hamlin: Fabulous' "My Time''
Joey Logano: Jerry Reed's "East Bound and Down''
AJ Allmendinger: "Going the Distance'' by Cake
Marcos Ambrose: "Land Down Under'' by Men at Work
John Andretti: Black Label Society's "Fire it Up''
Greg Biffle: POD's "Boom''
Dave Blaney: "Taking Care of Business'' by Bachman Turner Overdrive
David Gilliland: Limb Bizkit's "Break Stuff''
Robby Gordon: Kid Rock's "All Summer Long''
Kevin Harvick: DMX's "Party Up''
Sam Hornish Jr: "Fight for Your Right'' by Beastie Boys
Bobby Labonte: "Chicken Fried'' by Zack Brown Band
Terry Labonte: "Heartland'' by George Strait
Jamie McMurray: AC/DC's "Shook Me All Night Long''
Casey Mears: "Animals'' by Nickelback
Paul Menard: "Fire It Up'' by Black Label Society
Juan Pablo Montoya: "All Star'' by Smash Mouth
Joe Nemechek: "Life in the Fast Lane'' by The Eagles
David Ragan: "Thunderstruck'' by AC/DC
Tony Raines: "Bristol Speed'' by Silvergun
David Reutimann: "Sprach Zarathustra'' by Richard Strauss
Elliott Sadler: "2001 A Space Odyssey''
Regan Smith: "Shoots & Ladders'' by Korn
David Stremme: Kid Rock's "Bawitdaba''
Martin Truex Jr.: "Sun Gonna Rise'' by Citizen Cope
Brian Vickers: "This Town'' by O.A.R.
Scott Wimmer: "Night Rider Theme Song''
(Virginian Pilot)(8-22-2009)

Drivers pick songs for intros at Bristol UPDATE: Personalities among NASCAR's Sprint Cup drivers are as varied as their musical tastes. Fans will get more of an indication as to what might make their favorite drivers tick during driver introductions for the Sharpie 500 at Bristol Motor Speedway Aug. 22. Back in the day, drivers had a great deal of fun during pre-race festivities as they introduced themselves to the fans in attendance, injecting some of their own individuality into the way they addressed the crowd. BMS will turn back the clock Saturday, not only asking the drivers to introduce themselves to the sold-out throng of nearly 160,000, but also asking them to walk out to the song of their choice. The Sprint Cup stars take their music seriously and a good many of them deliberated for weeks before making their song choice for driver introductions, while others changed selections several times. Whether it is country or hard rock, their musical tastes are as diverse as the paint schemes on their cars.(BMS PR)(8-20-2009)
UPDATE: NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers will make a more personal entrance prior to Saturday night's Sharpie 500. Each member of the starting lineup will greet the crowd by introducing themselves, accompanied by a song of their choosing. Four-time series runner-up #5-Mark Martin will make his 1,000th career national-series start Saturday. Martin's song choice for his introduction? "For Those About To Rock," by AC/DC. Another AC/DC tune - "Thunderstruck" - is a popular choice. #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr., #6-David Ragan and #48-Jimmie Johnson all have chosen "Thunderstruck" as their intro theme. #26-Jamie McMurray also chose an AC/DC ditty - "Shook Me All Night Long." #39-Ryan Newman's choice of "Save A Horse, Ride A Cowboy" by Big and Rich took some consideration. "It really wasn't my first choice," Newman said, "but I won't tell you what that song was. I've always liked country music, and this song is pretty cool to me because my buddy "Two-Foot Fred" is in the video and is part of the whole deal. I wouldn't say it's my theme song, but it is fun." #9-Kasey Kahne offers fans a peek into a racer's world with "Life On The Run" by Dierks Bentley, whom he counts as a good friend. "That's what we do," Kahne said. "Life on the run. We just love to race, and to race, we have to travel, and Dierks is one of my favorites." #14-Tony Stewart is paying homage to his friend Kid Rock with "Bawitdaba". #12-David Stremme chose the same tune. Others of note: "C.C. Rider" by Elvis Presley - #33-Clint Bowyer; "Start Me Up" by the Rolling Stones - #24-Jeff Gordon; "Land Down Under" by Men At Work - #47-Marcos Ambrose; "Welcome To The Jungle" by Guns N Roses - #31-Jeff Burton; "Amazing" by Kanye West - #18-Kyle Busch.(Racin' Today)(8-22-2009)

Updates on injured man at BMS: A Bristol Motor Speedway emergency medical technician was seriously injured in a freak accident late Wednesday following the modified series race. Darrell Wayne Mitchell of Church Hill, Tenn., was taken by helicopter to the Bristol Regional Medical Center. A hospital spokeswoman said he was in the surgical intensive care unit Thursday afternoon. Bristol Tennessee Police Sgt. Greg Brown said Mitchell was leaving the infield on foot near the pit entrance between turns two and three about 10:45 p.m., 30 minutes after the end of the race. At the same time, a tractor-trailer turned left out of the infield and scraped the side of an elevated camera platform. The impact twisted the platform and a steel ladder attached to the unit spun around and pinned Mitchell against the infield retaining wall. Brown said Mitchell suffered a head injury, and possibly a skull fracture. There was one person standing on the platform, which a speedway representative estimated is 12 feet high, when the truck grazed the edge. Police said the man on the platform was not hurt and managed to stay on top. Brown said Mitchell was listed in stable condition late Wednesday, then in critical condition by Thursday morning. Mitchell was a paramedic with Church Hill EMS until several months ago when he went to work for the Church Hill Rescue Squad, director Stanley Arnold said. Mitchell is working at the races on contract through Wellmont Health System, which provides dozens of medical workers for the speedway.(Bristol Herald Courier)(8-21-2009)
UPDATE: A Bristol Motor Speedway emergency medical technician was seriously injured in a freak accident late Wednesday following the modified series race. Darrell Wayne Mitchell of Church Hill, Tenn., was taken by helicopter to the Bristol Regional Medical Center. A hospital spokeswoman said he was in the surgical intensive care unit Thursday afternoon. Bristol Tennessee Police Sgt. Greg Brown said Mitchell was leaving the infield on foot near the pit entrance between turns two and three about 10:45 p.m., 30 minutes after the end of the race. At the same time, a tractor-trailer turned left out of the infield and scraped the side of an elevated camera platform. The impact twisted the platform and a steel ladder attached to the unit spun around and pinned Mitchell against the infield retaining wall. Brown said Mitchell suffered a head injury, and possibly a skull fracture. There was one person standing on the platform, which a speedway representative estimated is 12 feet high, when the truck grazed the edge. Police said the man on the platform was not hurt and managed to stay on top. Brown said Mitchell was listed in stable condition late Wednesday, then in critical condition by Thursday morning. Mitchell was a paramedic with Church Hill EMS until several months ago when he went to work for the Church Hill Rescue Squad, director Stanley Arnold said. The red tractor-trailer that hit the platform is owned by TS Haulers out of Calverton, N.Y., on Long Island, police said. TS Haulers is a racing company that sponsored Jimmy Blewett, who placed 31st in Wednesday's NASCAR Whelen Modified Series. There was only minor damage to the truck, and the driver, Thomas Grasso, from Connecticut, was not injured. Brown said he is unsure if there will be any charges filed in the accident.(Bristol Herald Courier)(8-22-2009)

Popular Legends race to return to Bristol in 2010< The legends of NASCAR will race again at Bristol Motor Speedway next spring, but the rules of engagement have been revised. Along with three former driving greats, BMS officials outlined the details for the 2010 legends race Thursday afternoon. To be eligible for the event, a driver must not have competed in a Nationwide or Sprint Cup Series event in the past seven years. That would disqualify Sterling Marlin, who led every lap of the 35-lap Scotts Saturday Night Special late-model event last spring. Rusty Wallace, who finished second, would also be ineligible. The other major switch involves the cars. Instead of allowing drivers, such as Wallace, to bring their own late models every driver will compete in a car provided by the USARacing Pro Cup Series. L.D. Ottinger, who finished third behind Wallace and Marlin, attended Thursday's press conference along with Charlie Glotzbach and Jack Ingram. Other drivers who have committed to participate in the 2010 legends race are Phil Parsons, Larry Pearson, Harry Gant and Cale Yarborough. Details of the event are still being formalized, but it will likely be run after the Scotts Turf Builder 300 Nationwide Series event. The celebrity portion of the 35-lap race has been scrapped. Virginia Tech head football coach Frank Beamer and former National Football League star Mike Compton ran exhibition laps in the spring.(Bristol Herald Courier)(8-21-2009)

Bristol Transporter Parade on Thursday: A spectacle more than a decade in the making will bring tens of thousands of race fans to the streets of Bristol Thursday, Aug. 20 as Ford Presents the BMS Transporter Parade. The Thursday night of Bristol race week teems with traditions like Food City Family Race Night and the 13th annual parade of NASCAR Sprint Cup haulers, which carry the race cars and equipment for the Sharpie 500. Outside, thousands of fans in the area for the four NASCAR races will line the 10-mile route to watch the transporters make their way to the World's Fastest Half-Mile. Inside, hauler drivers will help in making dreams come true as many of them will carry a child from either the Make-A-Wish Foundation or the Children's Miracle Network. The parade starts at 9:00pm at the Bristol Mall at the conclusion of downtown Bristol's Food City Family Race Night. More than 60 haulers then will make their way down Volunteer Parkway to BMS. The transporter leading the way will be the one belonging to the series sanctioning body, NASCAR, followed by series sponsor Sprint and the leader of the series point standings heading into the Sharpie 500, currently Tony Stewart. Adding to the fanfare of the parade, fireworks will light up the skies from four different points along the route.(BMS)(8-19-2009)

World's Largest Group Karaoke attempt at Bristol: Over the years, Bristol Motor Speedway has involved its rabid fans in a number of fantastic card stunts, as well as Guinness Book of World Records. These fan feats have played a major role in the unparalleled excitement and unique atmosphere offered by the overall BMS experience. And on Aug. 22, prior to the start of the Sharpie 500, BMS again will ask its fans to take part in what will be the World's Largest Group Karaoke attempt. With nearly 160,000 fans in attendance, this will shatter the old mark of 80,000 set in Europe earlier this year. The Sharpie 500 Sprint Cup event is the last of four electrifying night races that will take place at the World's Fastest Half-Mile in August. Race week kicks off with a doubleheader Wednesday, Aug. 19 as the Whelen Modified Series takes to the track for the first time in the UNOH Perfect Storm 150, followed by the O'Reilly 200 Camping World Truck Series. Next up is the Food City 250 Nationwide race Friday, which will again feature a host of Sprint Cup stars.(BMS)(8-19-2009)

Bristol Nights CD featuring Bristol related songs: The sights and sounds of Bristol Motor Speedway are distinctive, unique and instantly recognizable. Now, fans can enjoy NASCAR's most popular track in an entirely different way with the release of "Bristol Nights," a 12-song CD that honors the World's Fastest Half-Mile. The dozen original songs in a multitude of musical styles commemorate the excitement of racing on "The World's Fastest Half Mile," Bristol's signature Night Race, the raw power of the Bristol Dragway and the unmatched Bristol fan experience. "Bristol Nights," which is the result of a partnership with Banshee Music, digitally debuted at Amazon.com and iTunes earlier this week (BMS), more info at the BMS site.(8-13-2009)

Bristol Sprint Cup race sold out: Bristol Motor Speedway President and General Manager Jeff Byrd announced today the facility's 55th consecutive sell out of a NASCAR Sprint Cup race. "A lot of effort by our staff here at BMS went into making this happen," said Byrd. "But the biggest tip of the hat goes to the fans. Those members of the extended Bristol Motor Speedway family, who continue, even in tougher times, to come back for the Bristol Experience are the ones who put us in this position. We commit ourselves every race to enhance the Bristol Experience for our loyal fans and the fans responded again." The streak began Aug. 28, 1982 when Darrell Waltrip edged Bobby Allison by less than a second in front of an estimated 30,000 fans. Since then, the facility's seating capacity has increased more than five-fold. Fans may place their orders now for 2010 season ticket packages by calling (423) BRISTOL (274-7865).(BMS)(8-11-2009)

Stewart to sell tix at Bristol: #14-Tony Stewart not only will be in the Bristol Motor Speedway ticket office on Thursday, July 30th, helping sell some of the few remaining tickets to the Sharpie 500 race, but some fans also can look forward to getting a little something extra from him upon purchasing tickets. Stewart has some of his own Sharpie 500 tickets that he will give away to a few lucky fans that afternoon. The former Bristol winner is scheduled to arrive at BMS around 1:30pm/et on Thursday where he will then head to "work" in the ticket office. The Sharpie 500 Sprint Cup event is the last of four exciting night races that will take place at the BMS in August. Race week kicks off with a doubleheader Wednesday, Aug. 19 as the Whelen Modified Series takes to the track for the first time in the UNOH Perfect Storm 150, followed by the O'Reilly 200 Camping World Truck Series. Next up is the Food City 250 Nationwide race Friday, which will again feature a host of Sprint Cup stars. Tickets packages for the Sharpie 500 and the Food City 250 are currently available, starting at only $145. Tickets also are on sale for the Wednesday night doubleheader - the UNOH Perfect Storm 150 and the O'Reilly 200 - for $30 and tickets for the Food City 250 begin at $45. Anyone purchasing a package for the Sharpie 500 and Food City 250 will be eligible for the buy one, get one free Wednesday night ticket. Tickets may be purchased by calling the BMS ticket office at (423) BRISTOL (274-7865), (423) 989-6900 or by visiting www.bristoltix.com.(BMS)(7-28-2009)