Richmond partners with local advertising agency: What better way to support the "Buy Local" initiative than to do it yourself? In the spirit of buying local, Richmond International Raceway president Dennis Bickmeier announced a partnership with local advertising agency Barber Martin. A 24-year-old shop located in metro Richmond, Barber Martin is a full-service agency that oversees the advertising platform for a wide variety of Richmond based companies, including Adolf Jewelers, West Broad Honda, Wealthcare Capital Management, VCU School of Business, Chesterfield Auto Parts, Capitol Region Airport Commission, and Southern States Cooperative. The Barber Martin team will assist RIR with print, television, radio and out-of-home messaging and promotions for the 2012 season.(RIR)(1-24-2012)
Richmond Staff receive NASCAR Awards of Excellence: Two Richmond International Raceway employees recently received awards acknowledging their commitment to excellent service they provide to RIR and the NASCAR community. Linwood Burrow, director of track operations, and Seiji Kashiwabara, nursing director, earned the Track Services Award for Excellence and Nursing Director of the Year Award for Excellence, respectively, at the 2012 NASCAR Summit. NASCAR presents The Track Services Award for Excellence annually to an individual who has taken the initiative to significantly improve track services at a NASCAR National Series Track over the duration of a career of ten or more years. Burrow, who earned the service award, has been a member of the Richmond International Raceway staff for over 40 years. NASCAR annually awards The Nursing Director of the Year Award for Excellence to a Nursing Director who shows outstanding leadership and organizational skills, quickly addresses concerns and delivers an immediate and positive outcome. Kashiwabara and his medical team operate the RIR Infield Care Center on race weekends, where they provide medical care to competitors and track guests. Kashiwabara has been a part of the RIR team for the past 11 years.(RIR)(1-20-2012)
Richmond tickets go on sale Friday: Proving that good things do happen on Friday the 13th, Richmond International Raceway fans may purchase tickets to the Saturday, April 28, Richmond 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race this Friday, January 13, at 9:00 a.m. ET. The race marks the return of NASCAR to Richmond International Raceway for the first time since last September's Wonderful Pistachios 400 - one of the most exciting races of the 2011 season. Fans can enhance their race day experience with the Saturday Pit Pass Upgrade, providing the only opportunity to score a pre-race pit pass to walk down pit road for an unforgettable infield visit. The upgrade also includes admission to the indoor, climate-controlled 3-Wide hospitality area. The Saturday Pit Pass Upgrade is $80 for adults, $40 for kids 12 and younger. Fans wishing to purchase must also have a grandstand ticket. Tickets for the Richmond 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race can be purchased online beginning Friday, January 13 or calling 866-455-7223. Tickets are also available for the April 27, Richmond 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series race and the April 26, doubleheader, featuring the Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown Late Model race and the Blue Ox 100 NASCAR K&N Pro Series East race.(RIR)(1-12-2012)
Special offer from Richard Petty Driving Experience at Richmond: Don't disappoint your loved ones with another tacky sweater, pair of argyle socks or a Snuggie. Wow them this holiday season with the gift of speed by giving a Richard Petty Driving Experience Ride-Along at Richmond International Raceway for $59 - a specially-priced holiday deal. Fans can ride-along shotgun at speeds of more than 100 mph during a three-lap qualifying run at Richmond International Raceway. That's right, riders don a racing fire suit, strap on a helmet and climb through the window and into the passenger seat for the ride of a lifetime and memories that will last forever. Click here to purchase your spots or call 1-800-237-3889 and mention "Richmond59" to receive the discounted price.(RIR)(11-25-2011)
Richmond announces 2012 dates: On the heels of what many race fans are calling one of the best races at Richmond International Raceway in years and the most entertaining race of the 2011 season, track officials announced that America's Premier Short Track will again host two NASCAR weekends in 2012. Next season Richmond International Raceway will feature NASCAR racing April 26-28 and September 7-8. The spring weekend features the second annual Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown and the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East race on Thursday night, April 26; the NASCAR Nationwide Series on Friday night, April 27 and the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series on Saturday night, April 28. The Saturday, September 8 date again features the final NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event before the Chase cutoff, rendering the Wonderful Pistachios 400 as the "One Last Race to Make The Chase." The weekend begins Friday, September 7, with the NASCAR Nationwide Series race.(RIR)(9-15-2011)
Harvick wins at Richmond: #29-Kevin Harvick won the Wonderful Pistachios 400 Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway for his 18th career win 4th of the season.
#99-Edwards finished 2nd followed by #24-Gordon, #6-Ragan, #22-Busch, #18-Busch, #14-Stewart, #39-Newman, #11-Hamlin and #5-Martin. The pole sitter, #00-Reutimann finished 26th after being involved in a wreck mid-race.
With the Chase starting next race at Chicago, the points have been reset with #18-Busch and #29-Harvick leading the points.
#14-Stewart and #88-Earnhardt Jr. lock up 9th and 10th place in the Chase with the Wild Cards going to #2-Keselowski (3 wins, 11th in points) and #11-Hamlin (1 win, 12th in points).
There were 11 lead changes among 7 drivers and a record tying 15 cautions for 85 yellow flag laps. The attendance is listed as 88,000, down from 95,000 last year.
Scheduled Race Re-Airs:
ESPN2, Sunday, September 11 at 1:00am/et;
SPEED, Wednesday, September 14 at 12:00pm/et
See race results, awards, laps led and more on Jayski's Richmond Race Results/Awards page.(9-10-2011)
Parking and Shuttle Service options for Richmond: Fans attending the Wonderful Pistachios 400 “One Last Race to Make The Chase” NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway on Saturday, September 10 will once again be able to take advantage of the “Park and Ride” shuttle program from downtown Richmond at the Richmond Coliseum parking lot and The Showplace parking lot on Mechanicsville Turnpike. The shuttle service, which is only available on Saturday, September 10, allows fans to park their vehicles at either location and use the free shuttle service to the main gate of America’s Premier Short Track.
The Richmond Coliseum parking area at North 7th Street in downtown Richmond opens and begins offering free shuttle rides to fans at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 10. The shuttle service back to the Coliseum parking area resumes immediately after the conclusion of the Wonderful Pistachios 400 race from the track’s main entrance. The shuttle is free, but a $6 parking fee applies at the Coliseum lot. The Richmond Coliseum parking area is conveniently located less than five minutes from the intersections of I-95 and I-64. To see a detailed map of the Richmond Coliseum area visit: http://www.rir.com/About-The-Track/Seating-Chart-and-Maps/Shuttle-Map.aspx.
Fans can also park their cars and RVs at The Showplace and take a free shuttle ride to Richmond International Raceway. The Showplace is conveniently located less than three miles from Richmond International Raceway at 3000 Mechanicsville Turnpike and is just ¼-mile off of I-64 at exit 192. The cost for parking at The Showplace on Saturday, September 10 is $10 per car and $25 per RV. The complimentary shuttle to and from the track begins at Noon and operates continuously with pick-up and drop-off points at The Showplace and the main entrance to Richmond International Raceway at Richmond-Henrico Turnpike. To see a detailed map of The Showplace area visit: http://www.rir.com/About-The-Track/Seating-Chart-and-Maps/Shuttle-Map.aspx. Fans can also contact The Showplace at 804-225-8877 with any questions.
Fans will experience all the sights and sounds of NASCAR excitement at Richmond International Raceway September 9-10 for the “One Last Race to Make The Chase” weekend. Saturday’s Wonderful Pistachios 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race is one of the most anticipated events of the year, as the race sets the field for the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup. Advance tickets start at $45 and can be purchased on www.rir.com or by calling 866-455-7223.
The weekend begins Friday, September 9, with a full day of on-track activity, highlighted by the Virginia 529 College Savings 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series race “under the lights.” A great option for the family, Friday’s tickets start at $30 in advance, with children 12 and younger admitted free with a ticketed adult in general admission sections.(RIR)(9-9-2011)
Pit Passes at Richmond: Richmond International Raceway is bringing you closer to the action than ever before with Friday Pre-Race Pit Passes for the next weekend’s “One Last Race to Make The Chase” NASCAR doubleheader. You can watch NASCAR pole qualifying and practice from the perspective of a NASCAR crew member and see the stock cars from just a few feet away as they rumble down pit road, giving you an unforgettable experience of the sights and sounds that only NASCAR can produce. For just $50 per person, you can enjoy pole qualifying and practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and NASCAR Nationwide Series. Pre-Race Pit Passes are available online or by calling 866-455-7223. Friday’s events include Fas Mart Pole Qualifying and practice for the Sprint Cup Series, as well as WRIC-TV8 Pole Qualifying and practice for the Nationwide Series. In order to purchase the Friday Pre-Race Pit Pass, you must have a ticket for the September 9 Virginia 529 College Savings 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series race. Pre-Race Pit Passes are limited to guests 16 years of age and older. Parent or guardian must sign waivers for and accompany children under 18 who are utilizing Pre-Race Pit Passes. New this year, shorts, short-sleeve or sleeveless shirts and blouses and open-toed shoes are permitted. Shoes, shirts and pants or shorts, dresses and/or skirts and blouses are required. No alcohol or coolers are permitted in the infield. NASCAR returns to Richmond International Raceway September 9-10 for a doubleheader weekend “under the lights.” The Saturday, September 10, Wonderful Pistachios 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race is “One Last Race to Make the Chase” for the NASCAR Sprint Cup. Advance tickets start at $45 and can be purchased online at www.rir.com or by calling 866-455-7223.(RIR)(9-9-2011)
RIR & Wonderful Pistachios to honor Military and First Responders During Pre-Race Ceremony: As fans fill the stands at Richmond International Raceway this Saturday night, September 10th, they will be joining in the most patriotic pre-race ceremony ever at America’s Premier Short Track. To honor America, the pre-race ceremony will begin with a “Salute to America” concert featuring patriotic music performed by police and military bands, as well as an active duty marine. The evening will be highlighted by Wounded Warriors saying the pledge, Danny Rodriguez, the singing NY police officer, singing God Bless America and the U.S. Army Infantry Division Band performing the National Anthem.
Rounding out the pre-race festivities announced last week, R. Lee Ermey "The Gunny" - a retired U.S. Marine and real-life Drill Instructor - will salute the troops by asking the drivers to start their engines and Nicole "Snooki" Polizzi - a New Jersey resident and daughter of a volunteer New York fireman – will pay tribute to firefighters by passing the flag-waving duties to Frank Siller, founder of the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation whose brother, Stephen Siller, lost his life on September 11th, 2001. Ermey and Polizzi are part of the Wonderful Pistachios advertising campaign.
Fans will be handed 4” x 6” American flags as they enter the stands and are encouraged to wave them in tribute to America during the concert, God Bless America and National Anthem.
In addition, fans attending the event, ABC-TV and MRN Radio broadcasters announcing the race, and the track announcer, will all go quiet for a three-lap moment of silence from laps 9 through 11 at the ¾-mile oval. The three-lap moment of silence, in which all fans attending the race are again encouraged to wave their American flags, is the culmination of many 9/11 tributes and patriotic activities being planned by NASCAR race tracks, teams, sponsors, licensees, drivers, and fans in special recognition of the anniversary.
This patriotic pre-race will serve as the “opening ceremonies” for the Wonderful Pistachios 400 “One Last Race to Make The Chase” NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. When the checkered flag flies Saturday night, September 10, the field will be set for the 2011 Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup. Tickets for Saturday’s event to be a part of the most patriotic pre-race ever start at $45 in advance and can be purchased online at www.rir.com or by calling 866-455-7223.(RIR)(9-9-2011)
RIR to honor America: With the Wonderful Pistachios 400 “One Last Race to Make The Chase” NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race scheduled on Saturday, September 10, just a day before the 10th anniversary of 9/11, Richmond International Raceway has a patriotic pre-race ceremony planned. The evening will be highlighted by Wounded Warriors saying the pledge, Danny Rodriguez, the singing NY police officer, singing God Bless America and the U.S. Army Infantry Division Band performing the National Anthem.
The pre-race ceremonies will begin at 6:15 pm with a “Salute to America” concert featuring patriotic music from the Newport News (VA) Police Pipe and Drums; Mike Corrado, an active duty Marine stationed in Quantico, Virginia, and the U.S. Army 29th Infantry Division Band from Ft. Belvoir. As fans enter the grandstands on Saturday, September 10 for the Wonderful Pistachios 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race, they will be greeted by NASCAR Foundation volunteers handing out 4” x 6” handheld flags provided by Harrisonburg Auto Mall. Fans are asked to show their patriotism by waving the flags during the “Salute to America” concert.
“Richmond International Raceway is unique in that every year since the 9/11 attacks our September race weekend has fallen on the weekend closest to 9/11,” commented Richmond International Raceway President Dennis Bickmeier. “It has always been important to us to recognize 9/11 and remember the victims and survivors, but even more so this weekend as we remember the 10th anniversary of 9/11. We are proud of our military and first responders; active, former and retired, and we are honored to have so many join us this weekend. I think our fans will find that this will be the most patriotic pre-race ceremony they have ever been a part of at Richmond International Raceway.”
Following the concert, the official welcome will be given by Richmond International Raceway president Dennis Bickmeier, Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell, and Frank Thornton, Chairman of the Henrico County Board of Supervisors – Fairfield District for Henrico County. As the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers are introduced, they will cross the stage and exit through a tunnel of first responders from Virginia and enter into a Chevy Silverado, where they will be joined by a member of the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans for America for a lap around the track with an American flag.
Henrico County (VA) Fire Department will display a flag from their ladder truck on the frontstretch apron for the day, along with Charlottesville (VA) Fire Department’s ladder truck flag display on the backstretch apron for fans to enjoy. Additionally, skydivers will enter Richmond’s ¾-mile facility carrying the American flag.
In addition to viewing the patriotic pre-race ceremonies on the Video Scoring Tower, fans will enjoy five color guards presenting our nations’ flags (Ft. Lee – Army on the pre-race pad, Central Virginia Combo Fire Team in Turn One, Virginia State Police in Turn Two, Newport News Police in Turn Three and Naval Ocean Processing Facility in Turn Four).
US Army Specialist Brendan Marrocco from Staten Island, NY, the first American to lose all four limbs in combat and survive, and Marine Corps Corporal Todd Nicely who is the second American to lose all four limbs in combat and survive, will lead the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a memorable rendition of God Bless America by Danny Rodriguez, known as the “singing policeman from New York City.” The 29th Infantry Division Band from Ft. Belvoir will return to the forefront to play our National Anthem. Fans are encouraged to wave their 4” x 6” flags during the entire pre-race.
This patriotic pre-race will serve as the “opening ceremonies” for the Wonderful Pistachios 400 “One Last Race to Make The Chase” NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. When the checkered flag flies Saturday night, September 10, the field will be set for the 2011 Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup. Tickets for Saturday’s event to be a part of the most patriotic pre-race ever start at $45 in advance and can be purchased online at www.rir.com or by calling 866-455-7223.(RIR)(9-7-2011)
Tracks spared hurricane damage: Hurricane Irene proved to be more than a hindrance to several NASCAR tracks over the weekend, but officials at Richmond, New Hampshire and Dover expect upcoming race weekends to go off without a hitch. Although Richmond International Raceway suffered no major damage, as of Monday morning the area around the track remained without electricity. Richmond is scheduled to host the Virginia 529 College Savings 250 Nationwide Series event on Sept. 9, followed by the Wonderful Pistachios 400 on Sept. 10. Turner said track officials are confident the facility will be ready to host the more than 90,000 fans expected to attend each evening. In three weeks, the series travels to New Hampshire Motor Speedway. According to NHMS director of communications Kristen Costa, the facility had minimal damage. At Dover, senior director of communications Gary Camp said track officials had enough lead time to stow important items. "We had no damage here at the track, fortunately," Camp said.(NASCAR.com)(8-30-2011)
Blood drive will kick off Richmond race weekend: Richmond International Raceway will host its annual Drive for Life, a Virginia Blood Services blood drive, on Thursday, September 8, from noon to 5 p.m. in the historic Old Dominion Building. Participants should enter the property at Gate 4, off of Laburnum Avenue. Richmond International Raceway's Drive for Life is a partnership between the track and Virginia Blood Services. Donors may register in advance by logging on to www.vablood.org. Richmond International Raceway's Drive for Life has collected more than 400 units of blood during its four-year span. Richmond International Raceway's Drive for Life kicks off the "One Last Race to Make The Chase" weekend, September 9-10. In addition to the blood drive, Thursday features the Rockin' the Raceway Dierks Bentley concert, benefitting the Cullather Brain Tumor and Quality of Life Center at Bon Secours St. Mary's Hospital.(RIR)(8-30-2011)
Dierks Bentley in concert at Richmond: The September NASCAR weekend at Richmond International Raceway gets a country kickoff Thursday, September 8, as national country music recording artist Dierks Bentley plays the track's amphitheater for the first "Rockin' the Raceway" to benefit the Cullather Brain Tumor Quality of Life Center at Bon Secours St. Mary's Hospital. The concert, which precedes the September 9, Virginia 529 College Savings 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series race and the September 10, Wonderful Pistachios 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race, serves as a festive way to drop the green flag on race weekend in Richmond. Tickets ($55 reserved, $35 general admission) go on sale Friday, July 15, at 9:00 a.m. Tickets can be purchased online at www.rir.com, via phone at 866-455-7223 and at Richmond International Raceway's ticket office, located at 600 East Laburnum Ave, Richmond, VA 23222.(RIR)(7-15-2011)
Fall Richmond race becomes Wonderful Pistachios 400: Wonderful Pistachios, which has been rallying people to Get Crackin' for three years, will now be revving people to Get Racin' as the entitlement sponsor of Richmond International Raceway's September 10 Sprint Cup Series race. The Wonderful Pistachios 400 showcases one of the most anticipated racing events of the season, as it marks "One Last Race to Make The Chase." The multi-year race entitlement signifies Wonderful Pistachios' entrance into the sport of NASCAR, and it couldn't happen at a better time and place. When NASCAR descends upon America's Premier Short Track, some of the best drivers in the world will battle for the final spots in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup. Wonderful Pistachios will be sold at concessions stands during Richmond's race weekend, as well as at most International Speedway Corporation tracks.(RIR)(7-13-2011)
New RIR president named: International Speedway Corporation (“ISC”) announced it has named Dennis Bickmeier President of Richmond International Raceway (“RIR”) effective immediately. Bickmeier accepts the role from his most recent position as Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing for Michigan International Speedway (“MIS”). Current RIR President Doug Fritz who has resigned to pursue other career opportunities, will transition out over the next several weeks.
Joining MIS in 2007, Bickmeier, 44, was responsible for the oversight of three primary departments -- communications, corporate partnership sales, and ticket sales and operations. His career with ISC initially began in 1999 as the Public Relations Director at Auto Club Speedway, and he was promoted to Senior Director of Communications in 2004, a position he held until 2006. During his time at the Southern California-based speedway, Bickmeier became an adjunct faculty member in the University of San Francisco’s Sports Management Program (2001-06), teaching the Strategic Communications and Sports Public Relations elective.
Bickmeier served as the Manager of Community Relations for Disney-owned Anaheim Sports, Inc., (1997-99) the owners of the Major League Baseball team the Anaheim Angels, now the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, and the National Hockey League’s Mighty Ducks of Anaheim. He has also served as Information Director for the Big West Conference (1993-97), and started his professional sports administration career with the National Football League’s Los Angeles Rams as the Assistant Director of Public Relations (1989-91) and Assistant Director of Sales and Promotions (1992-93).
The native Ohioan received his bachelor's degree from the Ohio University Scripps School of Journalism and his master’s from the Ohio University Sports Administration Program. Bickmeier will transition with his family to the Richmond area over the next few months.
“Dennis is a well-respected sports management executive having spent his career working within motorsports as well as with other professional sport leagues,” stated ISC’s President, John Saunders. “Having spent the past 10 years at two of ISC’s motorsports facilities, he is well prepared to take the helm of Richmond International Raceway. His proven management and leadership skills will facilitate a smooth transition from Michigan to Richmond. We congratulate him on his new position and look forward to his continued success within ISC. I would also like to thank Doug for his many years of service at both ISC and at Richmond. I wish him much success in his future endeavors.”
Commenting on the announcement, Dennis Bickmeier stated, “It has been a privilege and personally rewarding to be a part of Michigan International Speedway for the past three and half years. While I will miss all the wonderful people at Michigan, I am excited to be joining Richmond International Raceway. I am appreciative of this exciting opportunity and look forward to a great future with much enthusiasm.”(RIR)(7-6-2011)
Richmond to Install SAFER barriers on Backstretch: SAFER barriers will be installed in time for the September “One Last Race to Make The Chase” NASCAR weekend at Richmond International Raceway. The new SAFER barriers will cover the entire length of the inside backstretch wall, which is over 900 feet. “The safety of all who attend our events, including the drivers, is important at Richmond International Raceway,” said track president Doug Fritz. “We will always be reviewing our facility and continue to look at ways to improve on the experience of our fans and the drivers.” The walls are currently being fabricated by GT Grandstands, Inc., a Plant City, Florida company. Installation of the SAFER barriers will begin as soon as they arrive in Richmond. Cheaha Construction LLC of Munford, Alabama will oversee the installation process.(RIR)(7-2-2011)
Richmond tickets on sale Friday: One of the most anticipated weekends on the NASCAR schedule is coming to Richmond International Raceway September 9-10, and tickets for the two-day event go on sale Friday at 9:00 a.m. With a new Chase qualifying format and tempers always flaring at America's Premier Short Track, this is expected to be an intense weekend in Richmond. Tickets for "One Last Race to Make The Chase" start at $45 in advance and can be purchased online at www.rir.com or by calling 866-455-7223. Not only will fans enjoy the excitement on the track, but they'll be treated to a Video Scoring Tower that is viewable from every seat, as well as new-for-2011 amenities including wider seats, concourse televisions and even larger cooler sizes allowed, enabling fans to bring in more food and beverages than before.(RIR)(6-3-2011)
Need more SAFER at Richmond? #24-Jeff Gordon was involved in a multi-car accident on lap 302 at Richmond Saturday night and slammed into the inside wall, which had no SAFER barrier protecting the drivers, sone of Gordon's comments after the race:
Q) WHAT HAPPENED OUT THERE:
Gordon: "It knocked the wind out of me. I just saw the corner through my mirror, a car come into my left rear, and around I went in a hurry. I was hoping that I spun quick enough that I wasn't going to spin to the inside wall. And then I hit really, really hard. I'm just so proud of these guys on the DuPont Chevrolet. We had an awesome race car tonight. I don't know if we had a car capable of winning, but we were certainly going to give it a heck of a try and we certainly had a top-five car pretty easy. So, I hate it with the pit sequence and the pit strategy that was going on there that we lost all that track position. With 100 (laps) to go and everyone was just getting so impatient; you had to dive in there three-wide. I don't know what happened behind me but somebody shot up and got my left rear and around we went. I must have hit the corner of that inside wall. Again, I wish they had a Safer barrier there. I seem to be able to find the ones without the Safer barrier. But what a shame, man. That DuPont Chevrolet was so strong tonight. I'm so proud of Alan (Gustafson) and these guys. I hate that we lost that track position there, you know, with all the pit sequences and pit strategies that were going on there. You know, with 100 to go, everybody is losing their patience, including me. We were all three-wide. I don't know what happened. I just know that somebody got into my left rear and around I went."
Q) YOU ALWAYS SEEM TO FIND THE SPOT WHERE THERE IS NO SAFER BARRIER:
Gordon: “I know. I don’t know what it is. I’m not trying to teach anybody anything. I really am not. I think it is pretty well known we need safer barriers everywhere. You think it is a short track and everything but man, I hit a ton and hit right on the corner where you don’t want to hit. It definitely got my attention. That is for sure. It rang my bell
AND Richmond International Raceway President Doug Fritz Statement on SAFER Barriers at America’s Premier Short Track. “The safety of all who attend our events, including the drivers, is of the upmost importance at Richmond International Raceway. We along with NASCAR and the developer of the Safer Barrier at the University of Nebraska, review the performance of the barrier and its locations and have made improvements from time to time based on recommendations from the University of Nebraska, and will continue to look at being able to improve upon it.”(RIR)(5-3-2011)
Wedding at Richmond: a marriage will take place at Richmond International Raceway prior to the Crown Royal Presents The Matthew & Daniel Hansen 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. William Rodriguez and Buffie Richards will tie the knot in Gatorade Victory Lane at 3:00 p.m. The two met at Wal-Mart, where Richards works, and struck up a conversation that has led them to America’s Premier Short Track. “We are getting married at Richmond International Raceway because we have always thought of it as our home track,” said Richards. Both are hardcore NASCAR fans, with Rodriguez favoring the Fords and Richards preferring Chevrolets. The groomsmen will don Ford blue oval t-shirts and the bridesmaids will sport Chevy bowties. The happy couple will return to Spotsylvania, VA for what will hopefully be many years of happy marriage and racing rivalry. Tickets for the Crown Royal Presents The Matthew & Daniel Hansen 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race are still available, and start at $45 in advance. For tickets and information, log on to www.rir.com, call 866-455-7223 or visit a ticket booth at the track this weekend.(RIR)(4-30-2011)
VA Governor proclaims April 2011 as Virginia Motorsports Month: Joined by Richmond International Raceway president Doug Fritz and Martinsville Speedway president Clay Campbell, Gov. Robert F. McDonnell today declared April 2011 as Virginia Motorsports Month in the Commonwealth of Virginia. In his recognition, Gov. McDonnell cites Virginia’s rich motorsports history and serving as home to more than 20 local speedways, raceways and motorsports parks, including Richmond International Raceway and Martinsville Speedway – both of which host two NASCAR Sprint Cup Series events annually. Virginia is the only state to currently host four NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races each year. Virginia has also produced many contributors to NASCAR history, including Wendell Scott, the first African-American to win a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race, and two current Sprint Cup drivers—Jeff Burton and Denny Hamlin. Additionally, Wood Brothers Racing – the latest winner of the Daytona 500 – was founded in Virginia and was based in the Commonwealth for 53 years. It is the oldest continuously operating NASCAR Sprint Cup Series team. In total, the NASCAR weekends at both Richmond International Raceway and Martinsville Speedway generate annual economic benefit of $584 million for the Commonwealth.
The governor’s proclamation comes during race week at Richmond International Raceway, which begins Thursday with a doubleheader featuring the Blue Ox 100 NASCAR K&N Pro Series East race, followed by the Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown. Tickets for Thursday are $25; children 12 and younger are admitted free with a ticketed adult. The weekend continues Friday when the NASCAR Nationwide Series returns for the BUBBA burger 250 race “under the lights.” Friday’s ticket includes Wawa Pole Qualifying and practice for the Sprint Cup Series, as well as NBC12 Pole Qualifying and practice for the Nationwide Series. Advance tickets start at $30; children 12 and younger are admitted free with a ticketed adult.
On Saturday, the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series stars hit the track as Crown Royal Presents The Matthew & Daniel Hansen 400 “under the lights.” Advance tickets for Saturday start at $45. All tickets can be purchased online at www.rir.com or by calling 866-455-7223.(RIR)(4-28-2011)
RIR adds more fan amenities: Richmond International Raceway continues to add more fan-friendly amenities for the 2011 season, highlighted by the addition of 42” televisions throughout the concourse under the grandstands and convenient payment options.
· Concourse Televisions
More than twenty 42” televisions will be installed throughout the concourse, underneath the grandstands.
· PayPal
Fans who purchase race tickets online at www.rir.com now have the option to submit payment via PayPal.
· Credit Card Payments
Many concession stands at the track will accept major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. Stands that accept credit cards will be marked.
Additional fan-friendly amenities previously announced include:
· Larger Coolers Allowed
Fans may continue to bring their own food and beverage inside the gates at Richmond International Raceway. The new maximum allowed cooler size is 14x14x14 inches – large enough for 36 12-oz beverages.
· Wider Seats
Nearly all of the grandstand seats have been widened and now measure 22 inches wide.
· Backpack Policy
Guests may carry in their items in backpacks or daypacks similar to those used by school kids. Each guest is allowed to carry in one backpack. The 2011 NASCAR season at Richmond International Raceway kicks off April 28-30 with four races in three nights! Tickets are on sale now for the Crown Royal Presents The Matthew & Daniel Hansen 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race “under the lights” on Saturday, April 30th. The weekend kicks off with a doubleheader on Thursday night, April 28th, beginning with the Blue Ox 100 NASCAR K&N Pro Series East race, followed by the Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown. Thursday’s tickets are $25 and all seats are general admission. Children 12 and under are admitted free with a ticketed adult on Thursday. For tickets, log on to www.rir.com or call 866-455-7223.(RIR)(4-20-2011)
Drivers testing at Richmond for Denny Hamlin Showdown: Race fans in Richmond who can't wait for NASCAR to return are in luck. Several NASCAR drivers are making an early return to Richmond International Raceway this Wednesday, April 20, before the April 28-30 Spring NASCAR Race Weekend. They are testing in preparation for the Thursday, April 28 Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown. Denny Hamlin, Hermie Sadler, Martinsville Speedway president Clay Campbell, Curtis Markham and Jason White are confirmed to hit the track Wednesday from noon to 6:00 p.m. Grandstands are free and open to the public by accessing Gate 70. The fourth annual Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown makes its debut at Richmond International Raceway on Thursday, April 28. The race features many NASCAR drivers, including Hamlin, Tony Stewart, Kyle Busch, Kasey Kahne, Michael Waltrip, Joey Logano, Travis Pastrana and Trevor Bayne, battling with some of the best Late Model drivers in the area.(RIR)(4-19-2011)
Miller Lite Ultimate Tailgate Returns to Richmond: Miller Lite is bringing the ultimate tailgate party to fans at Richmond International Raceway prior to the Saturday, April 30 Crown Royal Presents The Matthew & Daniel Hansen 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. The Miller Lite Ultimate Tailgate features live music, tailgate games and great tasting Miller Lite and smoked barbecue on sale. Located near the Midway on the Amphitheater Hill, the Miller Lite Ultimate Tailgate is the place to be for fans 21 years of age and older before the green flag drops Saturday night, April 30. This festive and enjoyable destination is open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., with a southern rock band performing from 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., corn hole tournaments, a Miller Lite show car and mechanical bull riding.(RIR)(4-18-2001)
Henrico County, Virginia Issues Proclamation for NASCAR Week The Henrico County Board of Supervisors issued a proclamation recognizing NASCAR Race Week April 24-30 in the county where Richmond International Raceway resides. Richmond International Raceway President Doug Fritz was on hand at the Board's meeting to accept the proclamation from Frank J. Thornton, Chairman of the Henrico County Board of Supervisors and Fairfield District representative. "Now, therefore, be it proclaimed, that the Board of Supervisors of Henrico County, Virginia hereby recognizes April 24 - April 30, 2011 as NASCAR Race Week and calls this observance to the attention of all Henrico citizens," the proclamation concludes. NASCAR Race Week in Henrico County features the start of the 2011 race season at Richmond International Raceway April 28-30 with four races in three nights.(RIR)(4-17-2011)
Bayne, Patrana headline Party Zone fan hospitality at Richmond: If you want to watch NASCAR practice and pole qualifying from pit road and the opportunity to get up close and personal with NASCAR celebrities on Friday of race weekend, Richmond's Party Zone fan hospitality option is the ticket. The Party Zone fan hospitality on Friday, April 29 delivers a pre-race pit pass, full dinner buffet and question-and-answer sessions with NASCAR celebrities, including 2011 Daytona 500 winner Trevor Bayne, motocross superstar Travis Pastrana and more. The Party Zone fan hospitality, available on Friday, April 29, prior to the BUBBA Burger 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series race is $65 per adult and includes an exclusive pre-race pit pass (2:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.), as well as admission to the Party Zone. Kids pricing (12 years of age and younger) is available for $10. The Party Zone does not include a race ticket.(RIR)(4-15-2011)
Kenseth Headlines Green Flag Zone at Richmond: The Green Flag Zone fan hospitality, available on Saturday, April 30, prior to the Crown Royal Presents The Matthew & Daniel Hansen 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race is $90 per adult and includes an exclusive pre-race pit pass (2:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.), as well as admission to the Green Flag Zone, which offers: Appetizers (2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.), Dinner buffet (3:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.), Six adult beverage tickets for fans 21 and older (with a valid ID), Unlimited sodas and water, Question-and-answer sessions with Matt Kenseth, Rutledge Wood, Miss Sprint Cup, Hermie Sadler, Matthew Hansen and track president Doug Fritz, Live musical entertainment. Kids pricing (12 years of age and younger) is available for $45, which includes all of the above except the adult beverage tickets. Guests must have a ticket to the Saturday, April 30 race to purchase. The Green Flag Zone does not include a race ticket.(RIR)(4-14-2011)
Rodney Atkins having pre-race concert at Richmond: One can always find their fair share of Patriotism at a NASCAR event but when Rodney Atkins takes the stage in Richmond, it will be at an all-time high. Continuing his ongoing partnership with Crown Royal to salute those who proudly serve, country music artist Rodney Atkins will honor military hero United States Marine Corps Staff Sergeant (SSgt.) Matthew Hansen, in an hour-long concert prior to the Crown Royal Presents The Matthew & Daniel Hansen 400 at Richmond International Raceway on Saturday, April 30th. Ticketholders who are 21 years of age and older will have the opportunity to view the concert on the frontstretch of America's Premier Short Track. To receive passes for on-track access, ticketholders are invited to visit a booth located in the white VIBE tent on the midway, adjacent to the Old Dominion Building on Saturday, April 30, where they will receive a Crown Royal t-shirt and a lanyard, providing them access to the stage area for the concert. Ticketholders who do not have on-track access passes can still experience the concert from the grandstands.(RIR)(4-13-2011)
Richmond to Host 2011 Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown: Richmond International Raceway and Chesterfield, Virginia's Denny Hamlin are joining forces to run the fourth annual Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown to benefit the Denny Hamlin Foundation on Thursday night, April 28 at America's Premier Short Track. The event will feature several NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers and celebrities battling it out on the ¾-mile track with some of the best local Late Model Stock Car drivers. The addition of the Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown at Richmond International Raceway means the race weekend will now feature four events for race fans to enjoy. The charity race will be a one-day show, featuring practice and qualifying prior to the Blue Ox 100 NASCAR K&N Pro Series East race. The Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown will run immediately following the Blue Ox 100, making for an exciting Thursday at Richmond International Raceway. Tickets are available now for the excitement on Thursday, April 28th. All seats are general admission and $25. Children 12 and under are admitted free with a ticketed adult. Tickets include the Blue Ox 100 NASCAR K&N Pro Series East race and Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown.(RIR)(3-24-2011)
Pre-race pit passes available at Richmond: Richmond International Raceway is bringing you closer to the action than ever before with Friday Pre-Race Pit Passes for the upcoming Spring NASCAR Weekend. You can watch NASCAR pole qualifying and practice from the perspective of a NASCAR crew member and see the stock cars from just a few feet away as they rumble down pit road, giving you an unforgettable experience of the sights and sounds that only NASCAR can produce. For the first time ever, America's Premier Short Track is offering fans individual Friday Pre-Race Pit Passes this season. For just $50 per person, you can enjoy pole qualifying and practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and NASCAR Nationwide Series.(RIR)(3-7-2011)
Richmond launces fan advisory board: Richmond International Raceway is taking its fan-friendly approach a step further by launching a Fan Advisory Board. The group of fans will represent the entire body of fans to assist the track in continuing to improve the overall fan experience, and ultimately, “Racing Perfection.”
“Many of the fan amenities and enhancements over the past decade are direct results of feedback received by the greatest fans in all of motorsports,” said track president Doug Fritz. “The Video Scoring Tower, continuous tram route, larger coolers and widened seats are just a few of the enhancements that have been made at America’s Premier Short Track in the last year. It is our hope that the Fan Advisory Board will give us even closer contact with a core group of fans who represent the entire body.” Fans interested in joining the Fan Advisory Board may apply by explaining, in 100 words or less, why they would be a good representative of the fans. The application is available online at www.rir.com/FanAdvisoryBoard. The deadline for applications is Friday, March 11.
Richmond International Raceway’s Fan Advisory Board is an extension of its Richmond International Raceway RESPECT initiative launched last season. The creed encourages all of its fans to be respectful of everyone, be a good neighbor, be responsible, be attentive, take pride and have fun. The full Richmond International Raceway RESPECT awareness initiative can be found at rir.com.
Track officials will compile a diverse collection of fans who will serve as a focus group for the overall population of fans at Richmond International Raceway. Fan Advisory Board members may participate in meetings and conference calls to share their thoughts and discuss concerns with track officials. NASCAR returns to Richmond International Raceway for a NASCAR Tripleheader April 28-30, highlighted by the Saturday, April 30 Crown Royal Presents The Your Name Here 400 Sprint Cup Series race. Tickets start at $45 and can be purchased online at www.rir.com or by calling 866-455-RACE (7223).(RIR)(3-4-2011)
American Hero & Fallen Twin Brother honored with race title at Richmond: Just days before the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway, American heroes were honored by Crown Royal and the NASCAR community during a patriotic ceremony where country music star Rodney Atkins unveiled United States Marine Corps Staff Sergeant (SSgt.) Matthew Hansen as the grand-prize winner of the annual Crown Royal “Your Name Here” 400 program. Traditionally, the race at Richmond International Raceway has donned the first and last name of the grand-prize winner, but the April 30th NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race will not just recognize Matthew, but also his identical twin brother and fellow Marine, Daniel, who was killed in action Feb. 14th, 2009. Forty-three of NASCAR’s finest drivers will compete for the Crown Royal Presents the Matthew & Daniel Hansen 400 trophy.
Award-winning artist Atkins performed his hit song “These are My People” during an acoustic set in front of hundreds of fans and members of the NASCAR community in the Daytona International Speedway FANZONE. When Atkins came to the end of his song, the Curb Records recording artist added in the Hansen brothers’ names to unveil the winner, singing “Matthew and Daniel Hansen.” Atkins will also appear at Richmond International Raceway for the Matthew & Daniel Hansen 400.
Matthew Hansen lives in San Marcos, Calif., and was chosen from a group of five military finalists who were all nominated by their friends and family for their ability to demonstrate the core values of the military in performing a selfless act that made them a hero. Matthew’s godmother nominated him for amazing service during three deployments to Iraq and for continuing to serve with amazing courage and faith after losing his twin brother and best friend.
“To have thousands of fans vote for me to receive this unbelievable experience leaves me nearly speechless,” said Hansen. “I am so grateful for this opportunity to honor my brother Daniel and share his incredible story with millions of NASCAR fans. I came into this world with Daniel, joined the Marines with him, and never expected to be standing here today without him. My race is his race.”
Matthew and Daniel joined the Marines just weeks apart in 2002, and both quickly excelled in their training. Through his work in logistics, Matthew deployed as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom three times and due to injury now works at the San Marcos base, but hopes to return overseas again. Daniel was handpicked to guard former President George W. Bush at Camp David in 2004 and later Lt. Gen. Richard Zilmer while in Iraq. Daniel continued to proudly serve his country until he was killed in action by a roadside bomb while supporting combat operations in the Farah province of Afghanistan. For his service, Daniel was promoted posthumously to Staff Sergeant.
“I can speak for the entire Crown Royal family when I say we are incredibly grateful for the dedication and courage displayed by all service members, and are so appreciative to those who nominated the thousands of military members for our ‘Your Name Here’ program,” said Yvonne Briese, Crown Royal Brand Director. “We look forward to not only treating Matthew to a royal weekend, but also to help share his brother’s story and the story of all fallen soldiers.”
“It is a privilege to host Matthew as he honors his brother at Richmond International Raceway on April 30th,” said track president Doug Fritz. “We are thrilled to again team up with Crown Royal for the ‘Your Name Here’ program, recognizing members of our Armed Forces. The Crown Royal Presents the Matthew & Daniel Hansen 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race will be a momentous event at America’s Premier Short Track.”
In addition to Atkins, the ceremony to unveil Matthew Hansen as the winner included NASCAR driver Matt Kenseth, along with representatives from Crown Royal, Richmond International Raceway and 4-Star Admiral Mark P. Fitzgerald, US Navy (Retired) with over 37 years of military service. The Matthew & Daniel Hansen 400 will be incorporated into all official race logos, used for thousands of pieces of merchandise and recognized by NASCAR’s broadcast and media partners as the race’s official title. In addition, Matthew will take part in pre-race festivities at Richmond International Raceway and participate in the trophy presentation to the race winner in Gatorade Victory Lane. During the race weekend, he will receive VIP accommodations for himself and a guest.
Leading up to the big day in Richmond, Crown Royal will continue to remind fans to "Please Drink Responsibly.” through its “Safe Rides Home” designated driver initiatives and other programming designed to reinforce the importance of drinking responsibly.
Tickets for the Crown Royal Presents the Matthew & Daniel Hansen 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway on Saturday, April 30, start at $45 and can be purchased on www.rir.com or by calling 866-455-RACE (7223).(RIR)(2-19-2011)
Virginia College Savings plan renews partnership with RIR: Richmond International Raceway officials announced the Virginia College Savings Plan has renewed its partnership with America’s Premier Short Track. The Virginia 529 College Savings 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series race kicks off the Fall NASCAR Doubleheader weekend “under the lights” on Friday night September 9. The Virginia College Savings Plan remains the Official College Savings Plan of the track and presenting sponsor of the Family Sections presented by Virginia 529 College Savings Plan. The season-long Family Sections presented by Virginia 529 feature a special price on NASCAR Sprint Cup Series tickets for kids 12 and under and alcohol is prohibited in these sections. For NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races, tickets for kids 12 and under start at $25 when accompanied by a paying adult. You must call 866-455-RACE (7223) to purchase children’s tickets in the Family Sections presented by Virginia 529 College Savings Plan. NASCAR returns to Richmond International Raceway for a NASCAR Tripleheader April 28-30, highlighted by the Saturday, April 30 Crown Royal Presents The Your Name Here 400 Sprint Cup Series race. Tickets start at $45 and can be purchased online at www.rir.com or by calling 866-455-RACE (7223).(RIR)(2-1-2011)
RIR names John Moreland VP of Marketing: Richmond International Raceway President Doug Fritz announced the promotion of John Moreland to Vice President of Marketing for America’s Premier Short Track. Moreland, who has more than eight years of experience in motorsports ticket sales and consumer marketing, joined Richmond International Raceway in December 2007 as the Director of Consumer Marketing. In his new role, he will oversee all aspects of the Marketing, Advertising and Promotions, Public Relations and Ticketing departments. Prior to joining the Richmond International Raceway team, Moreland served as the Sr. Director of Marketing and Sales for Michigan International Raceway, as well as the Venues Ticketing Manager for the 2002 Winter Olympic Games in Salt Lake City, Utah.(RIR)(1-17-2011)
Tickets on sale for Richmond triple header: Tickets for Richmond International Raceway’s April 28-30 NASCAR tripleheader weekend are available for purchase. To purchase seats, visit www.rir.com, call 866-455-RACE (7223) or visit the ticket office at 600 E. Laburnum Ave., Richmond, VA 23222. Ticket office hours are Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Additionally, fans who purchase tickets Friday at the ticket office will receive a complimentary Richmond International Raceway souvenir from past race events.
This season features three new policies:
· Larger Coolers Permitted: Fans are permitted to enter the grandstands with soft-sided coolers measuring up to 14 x 14 x 14 inches—six times the size of coolers that were previously allowed at America’s Premier Short Track. Fans may continue to bring in their own food and beverages.
· Wider Seats: Nearly all of Richmond International Raceway’s grandstand seats now measure 22 inches wide.
· Non-Smoking Grandstands: Smoking is not allowed in and in front of the grandstands, or in portals leading to seating. Smoking is permitted underneath and behind the grandstands, on the Midway, in all parking lots, among other areas.(RIR)(1-15-2011)
Richmond Grandstands Going Smoke-Free: Richmond International Raceway president Doug Fritz announced that Richmond International Raceway’s grandstands will be smoke-free beginning this season. Fans who smoke may continue to do so, but in approved areas only. The new policy is in response to fan feedback. “Beginning this season, smoking will not be permitted in and in front of the grandstands or in portals leading to seating areas,” said Fritz. “Additionally, restrooms, buildings and areas that were already smoke-free at Richmond International Raceway will continue to be smoke-free,” said Fritz. “We are implementing this policy based on comments received from fans. Those who wish to smoke may continue to do so in designated areas.” Grandstand ushers will monitor seating areas to ensure the grandstands remain smoke-free at America’s Premier Short Track. Fans can notify an usher or use our text messaging service if they wish to report a violation of the non-smoking policy. Tickets for the Spring NASCAR Tripleheader Weekend at Richmond International Raceway go on sale this Friday [Jan 14] at 8:30 am. Children 12 and under are admitted free with a ticketed adult in general admission sections on Thursday and Friday. For tickets and additional information, go to rir.com or call 866-455-RACE (7223).(RIR)(1-11-2011)
RIR announces New Fan-Friendlier Gate Policies for 2011: In the continuing effort to provide the best guest experience in motorsports, Richmond International Raceway president Doug Fritz announced enhancements to the carry-in policy for the 2011 season at America’s Premier Short Track. One of the great traditions in NASCAR is the fans’ ability to bring their own food and beverages to enjoy while watching the races. Also, race fans tend to stay in the facility for longer periods of time than in other sports. To help make the race day experience more enjoyable, fans may now carry in soft-sided coolers measuring up to 14 x 14 x 14 inches or 2,700 cubic inches – six times the size previously permitted. Coolers of this size typically have a removable plastic liner and are branded to hold 24 to 36 beverage cans. To ensure these items fit underneath grandstand seats and do not block walkways, coolers with telescoping handles and wheels will not be permitted. Hard-sided coolers will still be prohibited. In addition to the new soft-sided cooler policy, fans may now utilize lightweight backpacks or daypacks similar to those used by school students to carry in other items such as cameras, souvenirs purchased throughout the day and scanners. NASCAR returns to Richmond International Raceway April 29-30, 2011. More info about tickets, go to www.rir.com.(12-6-2010)
Richmond accepting deposits for spring race tix: Richmond International Raceway is accepting deposits in advance of its on-sale date for the Saturday, April 30, 2011 Crown Royal Presents The Your Name Here 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. For a $20 per ticket deposit, guests may reserve seats for the race at America’s Premier Short Track. Tickets go on sale to the general public Friday, January 14, 2011. The Spring 2011 NASCAR Tripleheader Weekend begins with the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East race on Thursday, April 28, followed by the BUBBA burger 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series race “under the lights” on Friday, April 29. Friday’s events include practice and pole qualifying for both the NASCAR Sprint Cup and NASCAR Nationwide Series.To place your deposit on the best available seats for the Saturday, April 30, Crown Royal Presents The Your Name Here 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race, please call the ticket office at 866-455-RACE (7223). For additional information on the April 28-30 NASCAR Tripleheader Weekend at Richmond International Raceway, log on to www.rir.com.(12-3-2010)
Country Star Rodney Atkins to announce RIR race naming rights in song: Last night Crown Royal announced country star Rodney Atkins’ participation in its “Your Name Here” program. Atkins will reveal the namesake of the April 30, 2011, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway by performing a song that includes the name of the deserving serviceman or servicewoman in February at Daytona.
Crown Royal, along with NASCAR driver Matt Kenseth and Country Star Rodney Atkins, last night revealed that Atkins will perform a song from Daytona International Speedway in February 2011 to reveal the winner of this year’s Crown Royal “Your Name Here” program. The annual program awards naming rights to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race from Richmond International Raceway on April 30, 2011 to an adult serviceman or servicewoman.
Designed to honor America’s finest, this marks the second time throughout the five-year history of the Crown Royal “Your Name Here” 400 contest that only individuals serving our country can be nominated. Nominations will be accepted from now until Nov. 30th and can be submitted to www.nascar.com/crownroyal.(Crown Royal PR)(11-6-2010)
RIR offers boat storage: Last year, “Snowpocalypse” 2009-2010 hit Richmond like an ice-covered snowball on a January morning. Don’t run the risk of leaving your boat in frigid temperatures and blustery weather this winter. Instead, you can “batten down the hatches” at Richmond Raceway Complex with our indoor boat storage. RIR is now accepting boats to be stored in one of our enclosed buildings for $375 per boat; space is limited. This service has been offered for several years and has proved to be a valuable offer among area boat owners. Boats are stored at Richmond Raceway Complex until April 8, 2011, upon which all boats must be removed. Boats may be removed prior to April 8. Customers must call 804-228-7504 to make an appointment when bringing in or picking up their boats. Please provide at least 24 hours notice for access to boats. All boats must be drained of gasoline and all flammable liquids. All LP gas tanks and batteries must be removed. Boats must be left on trailers with proper working hitches and wheels/tires. Additionally, chocks are required. More info at rir.com. Tickets for the Crown Royal Presents The Your Name Here 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race and the BUBBA burger 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series race go on sale January 14, 2011. For information and to stay up to date, please log on to www.rir.com.(10-15-2010)
Crown Royal to honor military at Richmond again: Crown Royal takes pride in showcasing our country’s finest heroes, and once again, the tradition will live on. The makers of Crown Royal Canadian whisky, a subsidiary of Diageo plc, announced it will award naming rights to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway on April 30, 2011 to a serviceman or servicewoman. This marks the second time throughout the five-year history of the Crown Royal “Your Name Here” 400 contest that only individuals serving our country can be nominated. Nominations will be accepted from now until Nov. 30th and can be submitted to www.nascar.com/crownroyal. Once nominations are received, Crown Royal will provide fans the opportunity to cast their votes for whose name they think should be incorporated into the annual spring NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event at Richmond International Raceway. The grand prize winner will then be announced from Daytona in a patriotic ceremony among all the finalists, NASCAR’s Roush Fenway Racing driver Matt Kenseth and representatives from Crown Royal and Richmond International Raceway. This past May the race was titled “Crown Royal Presents the Heath Calhoun 400” in honor of retired serviceman Heath Calhoun. Calhoun was awarded the honor for his determination and ability to inspire others to live their lives to the fullest despite their injuries. Prior to his race in Richmond, Calhoun also competed on the US Paralympics Team at the 2010 Paralympics Winter Games, where he scored an 8th-place finish in the Super-G and a 10th-place finish in the Men’s Super Combined alpine skiing events. Those wishing to nominate one of their fellow soldiers (21 or older) to be the next Heath Calhoun, must write a brief essay, 50 words or less, on how that individual demonstrated the core values of the military in performing a selfless act that made them a hero.(Crown Royal PR)(9-12-2010)
Locked in Chase's painted on RIR wall: Much of the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup field may be set, but there will still be plenty of excitement surrounding Saturday night’s Air Guard 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race, which is “One Last Race to Make The Chase,” at Richmond International Raceway. Ten spots in The Chase field have been clinched, meaning Saturday night’s showdown “under the lights” is the final race to secure those precious two remaining spots in the championship field.
Points leader Kevin Harvick heads the list of drivers who have clinched, followed by Jeff Gordon, Kyle Busch, Tony Stewart, Carl Edwards, Jeff Burton, Jimmie Johnson, Kurt Busch, Matt Kenseth and Denny Hamlin, respectively.
So, Richmond International Raceway President Doug Fritz and Miss Sprint Cup Amanda Wright locked in the top 10 drivers eligible for The Chase by ceremoniously painting their car numbers on the backstretch at the ¾-mile racetrack. And though the top 10 may be locked in, there is plenty at stake on Saturday night with the Air Guard 400 also serving as the last chance for drivers to gain bonus points for The Chase with a victory. Still, the painted 10-driver montage at Richmond International Raceway will serve as a constant reminder during “One Last Race to Make The Chase” that time is running out to secure the final two spots.
Greg Biffle and Clint Bowyer haven’t clinched spots and sit in 11th and 12th place, respectively. Being outside the top 10, they need to race hard if they want a shot at the title. Tickets, starting at $40, include the Coca-Cola Pre-Race Concert and are on-sale and available now by calling 866-455-RACE (7223) or logging on to www.rir.com. A limited number of $40 seats remain.(RIR)(9-9-2010)
Richmond Pays Homage To 9/11 This Weekend: Richmond’s NASCAR race weekend will have an Armed Services theme, in recognition of 9/11. The Post-9/11 GI Bill has partnered with RIR as presenting sponsor, including the Air Guard 400 on Saturday night and Friday’s NASCAR Nationwide Series. The Post-9/11 GI Bill, passed by Congress in 2008, provides financial
support for education and housing to veteran service men and women and allows every eligible veteran, service member, reservist and National Guard member an opportunity to receive undergraduate and graduate degrees. As part of a host of pre-race activities to commemorate Sept. 11, RIR is providing all fans who enter the grandstand gates with an American flag to wave during the National Anthem. Boy Scouts, celebrating their organization’s 100th anniversary, will distribute the flags, which are provided courtesy
of Virginia 529 College Savings Plan.(RIR)(9-9-2010)
Night Ranger to rock RIR in pre-race concert: Night racing “under the lights” meets Night Ranger on Saturday, September 11, when rock icons - Night Ranger - perform a pre-race concert before the Air Guard 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway. The pre-race concert, presented by Coca-Cola, will take place at 5:45 pm/et at the start/finish line.
Fans with tickets to the Air Guard 400 race can watch the Night Ranger concert from their seats and see the performance on Richmond International Raceway’s state-of-the-art video scoring tower. The video scoring tower is the tallest in all of motorsports, featuring four giant LED screens visible to all grandstand seats. But, to “open happiness” with access to the concert area, fans must stop by the Coca-Cola display in The Midway to pick up a credential for the concert. Night Ranger has been rocking for nearly three decades, selling more than 17 million albums worldwide, performing more than 2,500 live shows and captivating an audience of more than 1 billion in radio airplay.
Tickets, starting at $40, include the Coca-Cola Pre-Race Concert and are on-sale and available now by calling 866-455-RACE (7223) or logging on to www.rir.com. A limited number of $40 seats remain.(RIR)(9-8-2010)
Off-Site Parking & Shuttle offered at Richmond: Fans attending the Air Guard 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway on Saturday, September 11 will once again be able to take advantage of the “Park and Ride” shuttle program from downtown Richmond at the Richmond Coliseum parking lot and The Showplace parking lot on Mechanicsville Turnpike. The shuttle service, which is only available on Saturday, September 11, allows fans to park their vehicles at either location and use the free shuttle service to the main gate of America’s Premier Short Track.
The Richmond Coliseum parking area at North 7th Street in downtown Richmond opens and begins offering free shuttle rides to fans at 1:00 pm/et on Saturday, September 11. The shuttle service back to the Coliseum parking area resumes immediately after the conclusion of the Air Guard 400 race from the track’s main entrance. The shuttle is free, but a $6 parking fee applies at the Coliseum lot. The Richmond Coliseum parking area is conveniently located less than five minutes from the intersections of I-95 and I-64. To see a detailed map of the Richmond Coliseum area visit: www.rir.com.
Fans can also park their cars and RVs at The Showplace and take a free shuttle ride to Richmond International Raceway. The Showplace is conveniently located less than three miles from Richmond International Raceway at 3000 Mechanicsville Turnpike and is just ¼-mile off of I-64 at exit 192.
The cost for parking at The Showplace on Saturday, September 11 is $5 per car and $25 per RV. The complimentary shuttle to and from the track begins at Noon and operates continuously with pick-up and drop-off points at The Showplace and the main entrance to Richmond International Raceway at Richmond-Henrico Turnpike.
The Saturday, September 11, Air Guard 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race headlines the Post-9/11 GI Bill NASCAR Weekend at Richmond. Tickets are on sale now, with a limited number of $40 tickets available, and can be purchased by calling 866-455-RACE (7223) or visiting www.rir.com.(RIR)(9-7-2010)
Post-9/11 GI Bill Named Presenting Sponsor for Richmond: Richmond International Raceway president Doug Fritz announced the Post-9/11 GI Bill has partnered with America’s Premier Short Track as the presenting sponsor of the upcoming NASCAR Doubleheader weekend. Titled the Post-9/11 GI Bill NASCAR Weekend at Richmond, the September 10-11 event weekend will feature the Saturday night Air Guard 400 Sprint Cup Series race and the Friday night Virginia 529 College Savings 250 Nationwide Series race.
The Post-9/11 GI Bill, passed by Congress in 2008, provides financial support for education and housing to veteran service men and women, and allows every eligible veteran, service member, reservist and National Guard member an opportunity to receive undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as vocational and technical training. The program includes payments for tuition and fees; housing allowance; a books and supplies stipend; tutorial assistance; licensing and certification test reimbursement; and the Yellow Ribbon Program, a plan which allows private colleges the ability to match government funds. In addition to the presenting sponsorship, Veteran Affairs, Educational Services representatives will staff an informational display during race weekend in the Midway for anyone interested in learning more about the Post-9/11 GI Bill. For additional information, visit the Post-9/11 GI Bill online www.gibill.va.gov or call 1-888-442-4551. Tickets are on sale now, including a limited number of $40 seats, and can be purchased on www.rir.com or by calling 866-455-RACE (7223).(RIR)(9-3-2010)
Richmond announces 2011 race dates: Richmond International Raceway officials announce America's Premier Short Track will once again host two doubleheader weekends, including the Spring season opener, as well as "One Last Race to Make The Chase" in September. And for the eighth consecutive year, the September NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race - scheduled for Saturday, September 10 - will set the field for next year's Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup.(RIR)(8-16-2010)
Richmond International Raceway announces Air Guard 400: In a historic skydiving stunt into Richmond International Raceway, track president Doug Fritz and Air Guard representative MSgt Matt Leas announced the Air Guard will hold the race entitlement for the September 11, 2010 Sprint Cup Series race at America's Premier Short Track. With the help of NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver David Stremme, the trio unveiled the new Air Guard 400 race logo for the "One Last Race to Make The Chase" NASCAR Doubleheader Weekend, September 10 - 11. The Air Guard allows Americans to serve part-time, providing flexibility to live life on their terms while serving their community and country with honor and pride.(RIR)(8-5-2010)
Richmond Oct Tix on sale Tuesday: With the NASCAR world setting its sights on the 2010 Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, fans will want to grab their seats for the Saturday, September 11 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway—“One Last Race to Make The Chase.” Tickets, which start at $40, for the marquee event go on sale Tuesday, May 25 at 8:30am/et. To purchase seats, visit www.rir.com, call 866-455-RACE (7223) or visit the ticket office at 600 E. Laburnum Ave., Richmond, VA 23222, Monday – Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. The September 10-11 NASCAR doubleheader weekend features the second operation of the new, state-of-the-art video scoring tower at Richmond International Raceway. A successful debut during the April 30-May 1 NASCAR weekend drew rave reviews from fans.
Family Sections presented by Virginia 529, which are alcohol-free and smoke-free, continue for the September race weekend. Children 12 and under are admitted at half price in Family Sections for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race and are admitted free with a ticketed adult for the Virginia 529 College Savings race. For tickets and information, please log on to www.rir.com or call the ticket office at 866-455-RACE (7223).(RIR)(5-24-2010)
Richmond Configuration Years:
Half-mile dirt 1953-68
From its inaugural season until its first race in 1968, Richmond — then known as Atlantic Rural Fairgrounds, Atlantic Rural
Exposition, and Virginia State Fairgrounds — was a half-mile dirt track. Victory Lane during these early years was a place for
legends. David Pearson won five races during this period; Richard Petty and Joe Weatherly won three; and Speedy Thomas,
Lee Petty and Cotton Owens won two.
.625-mile paved 1968 (second race)
Richard Petty won the first race on a paved Richmond surface. Only two drivers finished on the lead lap in the 300-lap event:
Petty and David Pearson.
Half-mile paved 1969 (first race)
The track was re-measured to a half-mile for the first race of 1969. Pearson won the event.
.5625-mile paved 1969 (second race)
The track was once again re-measured, this time to a 9/16th-mile. Bobby Allison won.
.542-mile paved 1970-1988
Yet again, the track was re-measured — but this one lasted for more than one event. There were a couple
name changes, too. During this 19-year period, Richmond was known as Virginia State Fairgrounds, Richmond
Fairgrounds Speedway and Richmond Fairgrounds Raceway. Petty was The King during this era, with nine of
his 13 Richmond wins coming during this period.
.75-mile paved 1988-Present
The track was reconfigured to its current shape and length for the second race of 1988, won by Davey Allison.
The track also changed its name to Richmond International Raceway for that second event of ’88. Rusty Wallace
is the wins leader on the 3/4-mile layout, with six victories. This era truly mirrors the evolution of the sport,
itself. For one, the first season with both races under lights was 1999. Secondly, starting in 2004, race #26,
held annually at Richmond, is the final race of the “regular” season. The top-12 drivers who will race in the
Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup will be decided in that event.(NASCAR)(5-1-2010)
Final judging for Bubba Burger contest at RIR: The votes have been tallied, and the top three vote-getters in the Signature BUBBA burger Contest will be vying for grand champion Friday at Richmond International Raceway. Fans are invited to catch the action, which starts at 2:30pm/et at the SPEED stage, located outside of Turn 4 on the midway. Trevor Bayne, Scott Lagasse, Jr. and Coleman Pressley will present their creations to a panel of judges to determine the winner. Bayne earned a berth into the final round with the “Cheese’s BUBBA burger”: Certified Angus BUBBA burger with three different cheeses (Swiss, American and cheddar), bacon, mayonnaise and ketchup. Lagasse Jr.’s unique creation put him in the finale with his “Fried Green Tomato BUBBA burger”: Turkey BUBBA burger, fried green tomato slice, remoulade sauce, caramelized onion, arugula and mozzarella cheese. Pressley had—by far—the most exotic creation, which earned him the most votes. Pressley’s creation consists of a Turkey BUBBA burger, topped with a Celebrity Dog, potato chips, Celebrity homemade chili, two peanut butter cups and thick cheddar cheese. The judges for the contest include Richmond International Raceway president Doug Fritz, SPEED personality Rutledge Wood and a BUBBA burger representative. All of this will precede the BUBBA burger 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series race “under the lights” at Richmond International Raceway Friday night. Tickets start at $35 and can be purchased by logging on to www.rir.com, calling 866-455-RACE (7223) or visiting a Richmond International Raceway ticket booth on track property. Children 12 and under are admitted free with a ticketed adult in general admission sections on Friday only.(RIR)(4-30-2010)
Who is Heath Calhoun? Race Namesake at RIR?: Heath Calhoun, a retired United States Army veteran, was announced as Crown Royal's "YOUR NAME HERE" contest winner this year. Friends and family of current and former military members were asked to submit their nomination for someone who serves or served in the military and exemplified their definition of a hero. Calhoun, a Purple Heart recipient and former member of the 101st Airborne unit, was nominated because of his bravery and heroism while serving the U.S. Army in Iraq. During a tour of duty, Calhoun lost both of his legs in an explosion. Calhoun, who was also honored with the George C. Lang Award for Courage, returned to his Tennessee home and, after many months of rehabilitation, began training for the United States Paralympics Team. Calhoun was selected as the flag bearer for opening ceremonies and competed in alpine skiing. Calhoun will take part in pre-race festivities as Grand Marshal, make numerous hospitality appearances and participate in the trophy presentation in Gatorade Victory Lane. The Heath Calhoun 400 brand was incorporated into all official race logos, used for thousands of pieces of merchandise and recognized by NASCAR's broadcast and media partners as the race's official title.(RIR)(4-28-2010)
Fans Invited to Sneak Peek of Video Scoring Tower Tonight: Richmond International Raceway is hosting a Sneak Peek of its new, state-of-the-art Video Scoring Tower, which will officially debut at this weekend’s April 30-May 1 NASCAR Doubleheader, featuring the Crown Royal Presents The Heath Calhoun 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race and the BUBBA burger 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series race. At 7:30 pm/et on Tuesday, America’s Premier Short Track will run showcase its prized offseason addition with video, graphics and racing timing and scoring, just like you’ll see this weekend when NASCAR returns to Richmond. Fans may enter the property at the Main Gate, located at the corner of Laburnum Ave. and Meadowbridge Rd. Guests should proceed towards the track and enter the grandstands at Gate 70. The new Video Scoring Tower at Richmond International Raceway is the tallest in all of motorsports, standing 153-feet tall. It features four LED video screens at the top, measuring 38-feet wide by 24-feet high. They will feature live race action, highlights, replays, pre- produced video and graphics. The leaderboard stretches 67-feet high by 13-feet wide and provides real-time running order, lap times, point standings and Chase standings. Tickets are on sale now for this weekend’s NASCAR Doubleheader Weekend, featuring Saturday night’s Crown Royal Presents The Heath Calhoun 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. Saturday’s tickets start at $40 and can be purchased by going to rir.com or calling 866-455-RACE (7223).(RIR)(4-27-2010)
BUBBA burger to sponsor NNS race at Richmond: Richmond International Raceway announced that next month’s NASCAR Nationwide Series race will officially be titled the BUBBA burger 250. Additionally, BUBBA burger is now the Official Burger of Richmond International Raceway and the juicy and delicious burgers will be available at select concession areas during race weekend. The BUBBA burger 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series race at Richmond International Raceway on Friday, April 30 will be an old-school, short track shootout “under the lights,” featuring all of the full-time Nationwide Series drivers, as well as many NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers running double-duty. For tickets to events at Richmond International Raceway, call 866-455-RACE or visit www.rir.com online.(RIR)(3-22-2010)
Richmond race named Heath Calhoun 400: A special patriotic ceremony at Daytona International Speedway revealed Heath Calhoun, a retired member of the Army who lost both of his legs in an explosion in Iraq, as the grand-prize winner of the annual Crown Royal "Your Name Here" 400 program. Heath Calhoun lives in Clarksville, Tenn., and was chosen from a group of five military finalists who were all nominated by their friends, family and fellow soldiers for their ability to demonstrate the core values of the military in performing a selfless act that makes them a hero. Heath's nomination detailed his determination and ability to inspire others to live their lives to the fullest despite their injuries. For his efforts in the military, Calhoun received a Purple Heart, as well as the George C. Lang Award for Courage. Once the finalists were selected, their stories were showcased on www.crownroyal.com, where, for the first time ever, adult fans were able to choose who they thought should receive naming rights to the May 1 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway. All the finalists' stories showcased myriad selfless acts, from saving a boy from drowning to participating in the rescue of the Vice President and several Senators when their helicopter made an emergency landing. While all were deserving of the prize, Calhoun was selected as the grand-prize winner. The Heath Calhoun 400 will be incorporated into all official race logos, used for thousands of pieces of merchandise and recognized by NASCAR's broadcast and media partners as the race's official title. In addition, Calhoun will take part in pre-race festivities at Richmond International Raceway and participate in the trophy presentation to the race winner in Gatorade Victory Lane. During the race weekend, he will receive VIP accommodations for himself and a guest. Known as the Crown Royal Presents The Heath Calhoun 400(RIR PR)(2-12-2010)
Five Military Heroes selected to claim naming rights for RIR race: While race fans gear up for one of the biggest spectacles of the season at Daytona International Speedway, the makers of Crown Royal Canadian whisky announced fans will also have the opportunity to choose one of America’s true heroes to receive naming rights to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway on May 1, 2010. As part of the Crown Royal “Your Name Here” 400 contest, five finalists from various branches of the armed services have been selected to receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Daytona to participate in a special ceremony to unveil the grand-prize winner, as well as attend the historic Daytona 500. The finalists, in no specific order, are:
* Heath Calhoun, Army (retired), Clarksville, Tenn.
* Chris Dempsey, Army National Guard, Yuma, Ariz.
* Rick Hudson, Navy, Gulfport, Miss.
* Georgia Powell, Air National Guard, Harrisburg, Pa
* Brian Speach, Army National Guard, Clifton Park, N.Y.
Crown Royal begins the season as a primary sponsor of the #17 Roush Fenway Ford Fusion, driven by reigning Daytona 500 Champion Matt Kenseth. Along with all the activities surrounding the race in Richmond, Crown Royal will continue to fully integrate its “Please Drink Responsibly” messages into all of its NASCAR-themed initiatives, including its signature “Safe Rides Home” designated-driver event that has provided thousands of race fans rides home throughout the years.
This marks the first time in the four-year history of the Crown Royal “Your Name Here” program that only military service members were chosen as finalists. It also signifies the first time ever that fans will be able to cast their votes on www.crownroyal.com for whose name they think should be incorporated into the annual Cup Series event in Richmond. All the finalists were nominated by their family, friends or fellow soldiers for their ability to demonstrate the core values of the military in performing a selfless act that made them a hero.
Some of the selfless acts of this year’s finalists include resuscitating a boy after drowning and helping to save a group of local nationals who were critically injured. Fans of legal drinking age are encouraged to visit www.crownroyal.com to read a complete background on the finalists and to cast a vote. Voting ends on February 10, 2010. Media are invited to submit their individual votes to representatives of Crown Royal so they have their own voice in determining the winner.
The winner will be announced from Daytona on February 12 with all the finalists, NASCAR driver Matt Kenseth and representatives from Crown Royal and Richmond International Raceway in attendance.
RICK HUDSON
Rick Hudson, 47, of Gulfport, Miss., has been on active duty U.S. Navy for the last 29 years – 12 of those years were spent at sea. Hudson was nominated by several of his fellow service members, along with his wife and brother, for his role in implementing and putting into operation a cash cage that cashed check and dispersed more than $3 million within 24 hours to hurricane victims. His innovative employment of resources and creative leadership helped Mobilize and demobilize more than 8,000 personnel. For his efforts he was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal as the Officer in Charge of his detachment. Rick was just recently selected for promotion to CW05. There are currently only three CW05’s of his designator in the entire Navy. Hudson has earned his NASCAR stripes the last 10 years during annual trips to the Spring NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Talladega Superspeedway. If Hudson took home the grand-prize, for him, the true reward would come in that he would be able to represent all the honorable individuals of the U.S. Navy during the race at Richmond International Raceway.
CHRIS DEMPSEY
As full-time member of the Army National Guard, Chris Dempsey, 44, of Yuma, Ariz., spends his days recruiting individuals to follow in his footsteps and enlist in the military. Nominated by several individuals from his unit, as well as his wife, Anna, SFC Dempsey has showcased the courage and dedication of the military numerous times throughout his four deployments. From saving the lives of 14 soldiers during a near ambush, to being a part of the unit that rescued the Vice President and several Senators when their helicopter made an emergency landing, Dempsey is truly an American hero. For his efforts, Dempsey has received a Bronze Star and the Army Commendation for Valor. In addition to a true passion for life, SFC Dempsey has an undying passion for NASCAR. Each season, Dempsey attends the annual NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Phoenix International Raceway. If his name was chosen to go “under the lights” in Richmond, Dempsey looks forward to attending the driver’s meeting and for first time in his life being able to sit in a room with the world’s best 43 drivers
BRIAN SPEACH
Brian Speach, 43, of Clifton Park, N.Y., is a full-time member of the Army National Guard. SSG Speach was nominated by State Command Sergeant Robert Van Pelt for his role in resuscitating a young boy who drowned at a Saratoga Springs hotel during a military conference in September 2009. Since joining the U.S. Navy in 1986, he has deployed six times to both Afghanistan and Iraq. An avid NASCAR fan, Speach has attended races at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Las Vegas Motor Speedway and Daytona International Speedway. If selected as the grand-prize winner, Speach most looks forward to interacting with all the drivers and receiving a true behind-the-scenes look at America’s fastest sport.
GEORGIA POWELL
After earning a teaching degree, Georgia Powell, 34, of Harrisburg, Pa., decided there were great opportunities in the military that she wanted to explore. Powell went on to become a medical technician for the Air National Guard. Throughout her tenure, Powell has made six deployments overseas, including visits to Iraq, Afghanistan and Qatar. Each deployment has been a truly rewarding experience for Powell because she was able to help people in desperate need of medical support. Powell was nominated by another member of her unit for her efforts in saving the lives of two Iraqi nationals that in return for her medical support provided critical intelligence utilized in the capture of Saddam Hussein. While Powell has never attended a NASCAR race, she is incredibly honored to be nominated. She most looks forward to the entire experience both at Daytona and in Richmond if she were to take home the grand prize.
HEATH CALHOUN
Heath Calhoun, 30, of Clarksville, Tenn., retired from the Army when he lost both of his legs in an explosion in Iraq. For his efforts he received a Purple Heart, as well as the George C. Lang Award for Courage. Calhoun was nominated several times by various friends and family members for his determination and ability to inspire others to live their lives to the fullest despite their injuries. He works closely with the Wounded Warrior Project in an effort to help as many people as he can. Calhoun is currently training to compete in the Vancouver Paralympics for skiing. Growing up very close to Bristol Motor Speedway, Calhoun has always had a love for NASCAR and remembers listening to the races on the radio with his grandfather when he was young. Calhoun is completely taken aback by the entire experience of being selected as a Crown Royal finalist. While he would be truly honored to take home the grand-prize, he considers attending the Daytona 500 a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.(RIR/Crown Royal)(2-8-2010)
Tracks lose over 150,000 seats: Some race tacks are downsizing by either eliminating some seats for fan zones of widening seats. The result is a decrease of 115,599 seats, based on changes in seating capacity this year to last year as noted in the NASCAR Sprint Cup media guide. Richmond held 112,029 seats before making changes. Now, the track's seating capacity is listed in the media guide as 97,912.(Virginian-Pilot)(2-4-2010)
RIR Scoring Tower Ground Breaking: Richmond International Raceway president Doug Fritz, joined by NASCAR personality Hermie Sadler and representatives from Panasonic, officially broke ground today for the new state-of-the-art video scoring tower which will soar above the infield of America’s Premier Short Track. The “larger than life” tower will support four giant video screens high above the infield of America’s Premier Short Track beginning in 2010. The new leaderboard and video screens, which combined will be the largest in all of motorsports, will be visible from every seat in this modern-day coliseum and installed in time for the NASCAR Doubleheader weekend April 30-May 1. Designed by Panasonic, the entire structure will stand 153 feet tall and feature four LED (light-emitting diode) video screens at the peak. At 153-feet high, it will be the tallest in motorsports. Each enormous LED video screen will measure 38-feet wide by 24-feet high, and the four-sided design will provide spectacular views of video, including live race action, to fans in the grandstands at Richmond International Raceway. The LED video screens will display live race action, highlights and replays, pre-produced videos and other animations and graphics. Below the video screens, a four-sided LED leaderboard will stretch 67-feet high by 13-feet wide and provide real-time running order, lap times, points standings, including the current Chase standings during “One Last Race to Make the Chase,” and other scoring functions during races. Combined, the video leaderboard and video screen portions of the structure will feature the largest amount of LED square footage in the motorsports industry. The new video scoring tower at Richmond International Raceway will stand more than 95 feet taller than the current scoring pylon, and the video screens alone will be over three times wider than the current pylon. NASCAR returns to Richmond International Raceway for a doubleheader weekend, featuring the Crown Royal 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race “under the lights” on Saturday night May 1. Tickets, starting at $40, are on sale now at www.rir.com or by calling 866-455-RACE (7223). The Spring NASCAR Doubleheader weekend kicks off on Friday, April 30 with the NASCAR Nationwide Series 250.(RIR)(1-18-2010)
Sprint Cup Race at Richmond to Incorporate Name of Military Member, voting ends soon: There’s only three days left to nominate a service member that you think is worthy of having his or her name incorporated in the title of the Crown Royal 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Saturday, May 1 at Richmond International Raceway. Nominations are being accepted through this Friday, January 15. For the past three years, Crown Royal has awarded naming rights to the May NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway to an adult NASCAR fan. Last season, two-time Purple Heart recipient and avid race fan, Russ Friedman of Huntington Station, NY, took home the grand prize and the race was subsequently named the Crown Royal Presents The Russ Friedman 400. When awarded the race name, Friedman, a former U.S. Marine, thought it would be appropriate to honor all his fellow soldiers during the event. To keep the momentum going this year, Richmond International Raceway and Crown Royal are once again using the race as an opportunity to showcase all the men and women who serve our country.
Fans are encouraged to visit www.crownroyalmilitary.com to nominate a service member who has demonstrated the core values of the military in performing a selfless act and should be awarded for their military accomplishments by having his or her name incorporated into the title of the Crown Royal 400 on Saturday, May 1 at Richmond International Raceway. Along with receiving naming rights, the winner will serve as race Grand Marshal, which includes shouting the most famous words in racing, “Gentlemen, start your engines!” on live national television, as well as conducting a series of TV, radio and print media interviews at Richmond International Raceway. Nominations will be accepted through this Friday, January 15, 2010 at www.crownroyalmilitary.com. Nominees must be 21 years of age or older and must be an active, reserve/National Guard or retired member of the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines or Coast Guard. Crown Royal will select up to five finalists who will experience an all expenses paid trip to Daytona, Florida where they will participate in a special ceremony at Daytona International Speedway prior to the historic Daytona 500, where the ultimate winner will be announced. For tickets and information, please log on to www.rir.com or call the ticket office at 866-455-RACE (7223).(RIR)(1-12-2010)
New scoring tower & video screen at Richmond: Richmond International Raceway will install a state-of-the-art video scoring tower which will support four giant video screens high above the infield beginning in 2010. The new leaderboard and video screens, which combined will be the largest in all of motorsports, will be visible from every seat at Richmond International Raceway and installed in time for the NASCAR Doubleheader weekend April 30-May 1. “The new leaderboard and video screens mark a major upgrade and improvement to our facility and will enhance the overall guest experience at America’s Premier Short Track,” said track president Doug Fritz. Designed by Panasonic, the entire structure will stand 130 feet tall and feature four LED (Light-emitting diode) video screens at the peak. At 130-feet high, it will be the tallest in motorsports. Each enormous LED video screen will measure 38-feet wide by 24-feet high, and the four-sided design will provide spectacular views of the video, including live race action, to fans all around Richmond International Raceway. The LED video screens will display live race action, highlights and replays, pre-produced videos and other animations and graphics. Below the video screens, a four-sided LED leaderboard will stretch 67-feet high by 13-feet wide and provide real-time running order, lap times, points standings, including the current Chase standings during “One Last Race to Make the Chase,” and other scoring functions during races. The new leaderboard and video screens at Richmond International Raceway will stand almost 72 feet taller than the current scoring pylon, and the video screens alone will be over three times wider than the current pylon.
NASCAR returns to Richmond International Raceway for a doubleheader weekend, featuring the Crown Royal Presents The Your Name Here 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race “under the lights” on Saturday night May 1. Tickets, starting at $40, go on sale this Saturday, January 9, at 9 a.m and are available by calling 866-455-RACE (7223), logging on to www.rir.com or stopping by the Richmond International Raceway ticket office.(RIR)(1-6-2010)
Richmond making seats bigger, lessen seat count: hearing that many Richmond International Raceway ticket holders are being or have been contacted about moving current seat assignments as the track is expanding seat width 2" to 4" for the 2010 season. RIR is currently listed as having 112,029 total seats. No word how many seats will be re-sized or how it will affect the seat count.(12-16-2009)
