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.(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)
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)
Rachtman returns to Richmond: Throughout most of 2009 TV/Radio personality Riki Rachtman could be seen on numerous shows airing on VH1 more notably his feature spot on “Daisy of Love”. Riki was the “voice of reason” as Daisy De La Hoya sifted through a houseful of men as she tried to find Mr. Right. In 2003 Rachtman was asked to host the inaugural Chevy Rock and Roll 400 Sprint Cup race at Richmond International Raceway. Riki, a self proclaimed hardcore NASCAR fan jumped at the offer and has been invited back every year on behalf of Chevy. ”I have always driven Chevrolets so to be associated with the bowtie makes me proud.” This weekend he will return to Richmond International Raceway for the 7th consecutive year. As in the previous 6 years Rachtman’s duties include a Q & A session with many of the top drivers in NASCAR at the Chevy fan fest. “ Truth be told,” says Rachtman “It is one of the events I look forward to every single year. I get up on stage hang out with race fans and talk to the superstars of NASCAR. It almost feels like I’m hanging out in my living room with Dale Earnhardt Jr, Tony Stewart and 2000 of my friends” In addition to his many TV appearances Riki can be heard weekly on his highly rated nationally syndicated radio show “Racing Rocks with Riki Rachtman” which is currently heard on over 110 radio stations across America. On Saturday Riki Rachtman will also spend time talking to fans at Richmond International Raceway’s Fan zone at 2:30pm/et then host Chevy Fan fest at 4:00pm/et with Tony STewart, Jimmie Johnson, Dale Earnhardt Jr and Richard Childress.(9-12-2009)
Pit Passes at Richmond: With a pre-race pit pass fans get to walk up and down pit road on race day and see the pageantry up close. The best way for fans to get a pit pass is to purchase the Scotts Miracle-Gro Green Flag Zone fan hospitality package, which includes a pre-race pit pass for Saturday. There is no age restriction or dress code for pit passes on Saturday. The Scotts Miracle-Gro Green Flag Zone package includes access to the exclusive fan hospitality area, where fans will have the opportunity to enjoy appearances by NASCAR drivers and personalities, an all-you-can-eat buffet, live musical entertainment, prizes and more. Tickets for the Scotts Miracle-Gro Green Flag Zone are $90 per person. Fans must have a ticket to Saturday night's Chevy Rock & Roll 400 NASCAR Sprint Series race to purchase a Scotts Miracle-Gro Green Flag Zone pass. More info at RIR.com.(9-11-2009)
Car #'s for chase drivers to be displayed on RIR's walls: Recently, Richmond International Raceway President Doug Fritz placed the currently “locked in” drivers to the 2009 Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Championship on the wall. In addition, after next week’s race at Atlanta Motor Speedway, Fritz will finish out the decals with the remaining “locked in” drivers and those on the bubble leading into the 26th race of the season at Richmond International Raceway. On race weekend, fans and drivers will notice the driver numbers on the track wall in Turns 1, 2 and 3, as well as on the frontstretch and backstretch aprons, reflecting who is in and who is on the bubble leading into the 26th race of the season. The Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup culminates at Richmond International Raceway on Saturday, September 12, at the Chevy Rock & Roll 400—“One Last Race to Make the Chase.” Once the checkered flag flies, the field will be set for the series championship. Tickets, which start at $40, are on sale now and can be purchased by logging on to www.rir.com or calling 866-455-RACE (7223).(RIR)(9-10-2009)
Value Priced Food Options at RIR: In a continuing effort to provide the best fan experience in motorsports, Richmond International Raceway announced an extensive list of new and unique concession items available to fans for the 2009 season. The list of new items includes several options that will be available exclusively to fans at Richmond International Raceway during the September Doubleheader Weekend, including the Richmond Raceway Dog, a Crabcake Sandwich and the Raceway Rib Sandwich. Additional new items rolled out in 2009 includes a two-piece fried chicken meal with a dinner roll and cole slaw, a catfish and hushpuppy basket with cole slaw, Boardwalk French Fries, and Famous Dave's Barbeque. Several value meals are available, as well, including a jumbo barbeque sandwich with cole slaw, chips and a drink; a cheeseburger meal with chips and a drink; the Boss Dog meal, featuring a 1/3-pound hot dog, chips and a drink; and a kids meal, featuring a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, Oreo cookies, a fruit cup and Capri Sun drink.(RIR)(9-10-2009)
Ride around RIR before race: Before the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series takes to the track for “One Last Race to Make the Chase” at Richmond International Raceway on Saturday, September 12, ticket holders will have an opportunity to ride around the same ¾-mile oval that will host the Chevy Rock & Roll 400. The Richard Petty Driving Experience (RPDE) will bring 10 NASCAR-style stock cars to Richmond International Raceway for three-lap ride-alongs with professional drivers, reaching speeds up to 120 mph. Guests who have tickets for the Chevy Rock & Roll 400 will have the chance to speed around the track that will set the field for the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, just hours later. Ride-alongs with RPDE on Saturday, September 12, are $149 and reservations are required by calling 1-800-BE-PETTY (1-800-237-3889). Ride-alongs will take place from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Additional information can be found by visiting www.1800bepetty.com. For tickets to the races and information, log on to www.rir.com or call 866-455-RACE (7223).(RIR)(9-10-2009)
Richmond Tix still available: Tickets for the Saturday, September 12, Chevy Rock & Roll 400, start at $40 and can be purchased by logging on to www.rir.com or calling 866-455-RACE (7223). The weekend begins on Friday, September 11, with a full day of on-track activity, highlighted by the Virginia 529 College Savings 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series race “under the lights.” Friday’s ticket includes practice and Fas Mart Pole Qualifying for the Chevy Rock & Roll 400, as well as practice and WRIC-TV8 Pole Qualifying for the Virginia 529 College Savings 250 race. Friday’s tickets are $45 (reserved) and $35 (general admission) in advance. Children 12 and under are admitted free with a ticketed adult in general admission sections on Friday only.(RIR)(9-9-2009)
Grand Marshal for Chevy Rock & Roll 400: Specialist (SPC) Anthony M. Landowski, who was wounded in the line of duty in Afghanistan on May 17, will be the grand marshal for Saturday's Chevy Rock and Roll 400. Landowski, a 22-year-old native of Ringgold, Ga., and a soldier from the Georgia Army National Guard, was serving as a combat medic with the 48th Brigade Combat Team from Calhoun, Ga., when he was injured by an IED blast. He was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds received in combat as well as the Combat Medic Badge for rendering aid while under hostile enemy fire. Landowski has been receiving care at Walter Reed Army Medical Center for the past four months and desires to return to his unit. He anticipates returning to Georgia, where he ultimately will finish his associate's degree and further pursue a career as a physician's assistant.(HMS)(9-9-2009)
The All-American Rejects headline Richmond pre-race concert: For the seventh straight year, the sounds of rock & roll and the intensity of NASCAR racing will merge at the Chevy Rock & Roll 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. This year's event features a pre-race concert by The All-American Rejects. The chart-topping rock band will perform on the frontstretch of Richmond International Raceway on Saturday, September 12, at 5:45 p.m., followed by the start of "One Last Race to Make the Chase"-the Chevy Rock & Roll 400. An American rock band formed in 2001 in Stillwater, Oklahoma, The All-American Rejects have released three studio albums that have garnered the band critical and mainstream success worldwide. Tickets for the NASCAR doubleheader weekend, September 11-12, at Richmond International Raceway, are on sale now. Tickets, which start at $40, can be purchased by logging on to www.rir.com or calling 866-455-RACE (7223).(RIR PR)(8-27-2009)
- September RIR Sprint Cup Series Tix on sale: Tickets for the Chevy Rock & Roll 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway, scheduled for Saturday, September 12, will go on sale to the general public this Saturday, May 16 at 8:00am. Guests can purchase tickets—which start at $40—by clicking here, calling the ticket office at 866-455-RACE (7223) (Monday-Friday, 8:00am to 9:00pm and on weekends from 9:00am to 9:00pm), or stopping by the ticket office at 600 E. Laburnum Ave., Richmond, VA 23222, which will be open this Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to noon. Normal business hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm.(RIR)(5-16-2009)
- New emergency texting available to race patrons: International Speedway Corporation (ISC) has partnered with InStadiumSolutions to implement a text-message based communication system at all of its 12 motorsports facilities. The service was introduced last weekend during the NASCAR Nationwide and Sprint Cup races at Darlington Raceway. The system allows fans to communicate with the racetrack's command post if assistance is needed inside the facility. The technology was tested at Homestead-Miami Speedway last November during the final weekend of the NASCAR season. Instructions will be posted throughout each racetrack and will be broadcast through audio and video public announcements. Besides Darlington and Homestead-Miami, ISC owns and/or operates Daytona, Talladega, Michigan, Richmond, Auto Club Speedway, Kansas, Phoenix, Chicago, Martinsville and Watkins Glen. The Fan Text Messaging Service is also being used by several professional and college teams, as well as at events such as the Super Bowl, BCS National Championship and World Baseball Classic.(Associated Press)(5-14-2009)
- Pre-Race Ceremonies announced for Richmond: The NASCAR doubleheader weekend at Richmond International Raceway is sure to feature plenty of on-track excitement and emotion, but it will all be preceded by spectacular pre-race ceremonies both Friday and Saturday nights. Prior to the Lipton Tea 250 Nationwide Series race, fans will want to check out the midway concert by The Charlie Daniels Band, scheduled for 5:15 p.m. at the Lipton display, near the flagpole. Things get started when the crowd is introduced to several VIPs from Lipton Tea. Michael Olsen, Assistant Director of the United States Border Patrol, will lead everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the presentation of colors by the 217th Military Police Detachment of Fort Lee. Then, it will be Charlie Daniels who delivers the National Anthem, culminating with Altus Air Force Base performing a flyover with a KC-135 aircraft. On Saturday night, the star of the show will make his way to the pre-race stage, as Russ Friedman is showcased, moments before the Crown Royal Presents The Russ Friedman 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. We'll meet the Chief Administrative Officer of the Virginia Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, Jeff Painter, before Olsen again leads us for the Pledge of Allegiance. The colors will again be presented by Fort Lee on Saturday night, along with an unfurling of a large American flag. For the third consecutive year, "The Commandant's Own" Marine Drum and Bugle Corps will play the National Anthem, delivering one of the best renditions you'll ever hear. The U.S. Coast Guard will fly their C-130J from Elizabeth City, NC for the flyover. Friedman will prepare us for Racing Perfection and deliver the most famous words in racing: "Gentlemen, start your engines!"(RIR PR)(5-1-2009)
- Race Fans Caution - Swine flu, Richmond safe: The swine flu outbreak has caused Henrico County Health Department officials to advise race fans to take precautions when attending events this weekend at Richmond International Raceway. "There is no reason for fans not to attend and enjoy the events this weekend," said acting Health Director Dr. Robert B. Stroube. "However, as with any large public event, there is a risk of spreading viruses, but there are very simple yet effective precautions you can take to avoid exposure." People who are sick, experiencing flu-like symptoms or have a fever should stay home. Other precautions include frequent hand washing and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing. There are no confirmed cases of swine flu reported in the state, according to the Virginia Department of Health.(Richmond Times Dispatch)(5-1-2009)
- The Top 10 Things You Need To Know About Your Trip to RIR:
1) Plan to get here early on Race Day!
2) What you can bring. What you can't bring
3) Hungry? There are plenty of new food options on race weekend
4) Get on Pit Road, and see drivers up close and personal in fan hospitality
5) Good times and good tunes are on the way
6) Experience the Midway! There’s so much to do and see
7) Let us show you the way! Download maps to get here and there quickly
8) Getting here is easier than ever with free shuttle service
9) Don’t miss a thing! The weekend schedule of events
10) Don’t forget your Fan Guide and have a great time
See the full list with explanations at rir.com.(4-29-2009)
- RIR keeps focus on fan experience: Richmond International Raceway (RIR) is known for exciting night racing “under the lights,” and fans can expect to once again see some of the best and most entertaining racing in all of motorsports during the upcoming NASCAR Doubleheader weekend May 1-2. But, the commitment to the fan experience is one of the main reasons why RIR is known as America’s Premier Short Track. The track has continued to focus on improving the fan experience and fans can also expect the same great guest service during their upcoming visit. At Richmond International Raceway, it’s all about the fans.
After listening to its fans and due to the economic conditions, earlier this year RIR announced a ticket price restructuring for Sprint Cup Series tickets in the Henrico Grandstand. Tickets currently on sale for the May 2 Crown Royal Presents The Russ Friedman 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race start at $40. The $40 restructured price reflects a 50% decrease from the May 2008 price.
RIR officials also worked with hotels in the region to promote special lodging rates and offers to race fans. Track officials reached out to area hotel owners and management and offered the opportunity to promote compelling lodging deals to race fans. The hotel offers for race weekend can be found online at: www.rir.com/hotelspecialoffers/. Some of the 2009 race weekend rates are 20-50% lower compared to 2008 race weekend prices, and many of the hotels on the list have reduced or eliminated the minimum stay requirement for the upcoming May race weekend.
Additionally, for fans flying to Richmond from out of town, AirTran Airways is offering 10% off flights to Richmond International Airport for ticket holders to the NASCAR doubleheader weekend. Ticket holders received information about the reduced airfare with their tickets. For additional information on the AirTran program, please contact the RIR ticket office at 866-455-RACE.
At the track, RIR recently announced an extensive list of new and unique concession options available to fans, as well as reduced prices on some traditional items. The list of new offers includes several options that will be available exclusively to fans at RIR, including the Richmond Raceway Dog, a Crabcake Sandwich and the Raceway Rib Sandwich. Additional new items to be rolled out in May include a two-piece fried chicken meal, a catfish and hushpuppy basket, Boardwalk French Fries, and Famous Dave’s Barbeque. Several new value meals will be available as well, including a jumbo barbeque sandwich with cole slaw, chips and a drink; a cheeseburger meal with chips and a drink; and the Boss Dog meal, featuring an enormous 1/3 pound hot dog, chips and a drink. There is also now a kids meal, featuring a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, Oreo cookies, a fruit cup and a Capri Sun drink.
On Friday, the Charlie Daniels Band will perform a free concert on the midway at 5:15 p.m. at the Lipton display area, located near the flag pole in the center of the Midway. The Charlie Daniels Band concert is just one of many great activities to enjoy during the NASCAR doubleheader weekend out in the Midway. In addition to the concert, the Midway features free interactive displays and games, give-aways, product samples and souvenir stands with RIR gear and driver merchandise. Additionally, Chevy Fan Fest will be taking place on the Midway with show cars, games and more all weekend.
The Commandant’s Own Marine Drum & Bugle Corps will perform their always-stunning rendition of the National Anthem prior to the Crown Royal Presents The Russ Friedman 400 Sprint Cup Series race. And as always, automobile parking in all of the RIR parking lots is free to fans with race tickets, and fans can continue to bring their own food and drinks into RIR. Tickets are on sale now for the Crown Royal Presents The Russ Friedman 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race and the Lipton Tea 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series race and can be purchased by logging on to www.rir.com or calling 866-455-RACE (7223).(RIR PR)(4-26-2009)
- RIR offers options and lower food prices: In a continuing effort to provide the best fan experience in motorsports, Richmond International Raceway is proud to announce an extensive list of new and unique concession items available to fans at America’s Premier Short Track during the NASCAR Doubleheader weekend May 1-2, as well as lower prices on some of the track’s well known items.
After listening to its fans, Richmond International Raceway has worked to provide fans more affordable and diverse menu items, including several packaged value meals and kid-friendly meal options, at the track. The list of new items includes several options that will be available exclusively to fans at Richmond International Raceway, including the introductions of the Richmond Raceway Dog, a Crabcake Sandwich and the Raceway Rib Sandwich. The Richmond Raceway Dog features a hot dog topped with chili, delicious Richmond Relish and spicy mustard. A staple in the Mid-Atlantic Region, the Crabcake Sandwich provides a great option for seafood lovers, and the Raceway Rib Sandwich, smothered in mouthwatering barbecue sauce and pickles, provides another unique alternative to the normal concession fare. Each of the three new exclusive items carries a great low price as well, with both the Richmond Raceway Dog and Raceway Rib Sandwich available for $3. For those fans who want to stick with the traditional hot dog, that price has been lowered to $3 as well. The Crabcake Sandwich is priced at $6.
Additional new items to be rolled out in May include a two-piece fried chicken meal with a dinner roll and cole slaw, a catfish and hushpuppy basket with cole slaw, Boardwalk French Fries and Famous Dave’s Barbeque. Several new value meals will be available as well, including a jumbo barbeque sandwich with cole slaw, chips and a drink, a cheeseburger meal with chips and a drink, the Boss Dog meal, featuring an enormous 1/3 pound hot dog, chips and a drink and a kids meal, featuring a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, Oreo cookies, a fruit cup and Capri Sun drink. The value meal options represent an average savings of $3, or 25%, per meal over the cost of the same items in 2008. Also, the Fast Franks program has been carried over to 2009, featuring four regular ready-to-eat hot dogs packaged together for $10. By offering improved and value-added concession items, Richmond International Raceway continues to work on enhancing the overall fan experience at the track. Tickets for both races can be purchased by calling 866-455-RACE (7223), by visiting www.rir.com or at the Richmond International Raceway ticket office at 600 E. Laburnum Avenue.(RIR PR)(4-23-2009)
- Charlie Daniels Band to perform at Richmond: Although the “Devil Went Down to Georgia,” the band that performs that famous ditty will be in Virginia for the NASCAR doubleheader weekend at Richmond International Raceway May 1-2, 2009. The Charlie Daniels Band will perform a free concert sponsored by Lipton Iced Tea on the midway Friday, May 1, at 5:15 p.m. at the Lipton display area, located near the flag pole in the center of the midway. The Charlie Daniels Band concert is just one of many free activities to enjoy at Richmond International Raceway May 1-2. While at the Lipton display, guests can try a free sample of Lipton iced tea, a sandwich made with Hellmann’s mayonnaise and a Klondike bar. In addition to the concert, Chevy Fan Fest—which features show cars and games, interactive midway displays, product samples and parking—are all free on raceway property during the May 1-2 weekend.
Guests will want to stick around after the band’s performance because the night’s main event—the Lipton Tea 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series race—is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. “under the lights” at America’s Premier Short Track. Charlie Daniels is scheduled to perform the National Anthem during pre-race ceremonies. Please log on to www.rir.com or call 866-455-RACE (7223) for tickets and information.(RIR PR)(4-8-2009)
- RIR works with local hotels for reduced rates: Richmond International Raceway is working with hotels in the Richmond region to promote special lodging rates and offers to race fans for the NASCAR Doubleheader weekend May 1-2 at America’s Premier Short Track. In conjunction with the Richmond Metropolitan Convention & Visitor’s Bureau, Richmond International Raceway is reaching out to area hotel owners and management and offering the opportunity to promote compelling lodging deals to race fans, which will include being listed on the track’s official web site www.rir.com. On the initial list of hotels offering significant deals, some of the 2009 race weekend rates are 20-50% lower compared to 2008 race weekend prices, and many of the hotels on the list have reduced or eliminated the minimum stay requirement for the upcoming May race weekend. The hotel program is another way Richmond International Raceway is working to make race weekends at America’s Premier Short Track more affordable and enjoyable for its fans. Please log on to www.rir.com or call 866-455-RACE (7223) for tickets and information.(RIR PR)(3-30-2009)
- RIR economic impact is $467 million: Richmond International Raceway generates an annual economic impact of $467 million, as evidenced by a study conducted by the Washington Economics Group, Inc. Included in the study are two NASCAR weekends, one IndyCar weekend and the ongoing operations of Richmond Raceway Complex. These economic activities create more than 7,700 permanent jobs in Virginia, resulting in $186 million in annual labor income. The economic study utilized the IMPLAN model, which quantifies the direct and indirect benefits of economic activity. The study, which analyzed operating and other expenditures made by Richmond International Raceway, as well as expenditures made by out-of-town visitors to the Commonwealth of Virginia shows that Richmond International Raceway:
* Generates $467 million annually in total economic activity, with $278 million of that in direct economic benefit.
* Operations result in more than 7,700 permanent jobs for Virginia residents, generating an annual income labor of $186 million, benefiting workers in all sectors of the state’s economy.
* Creates $286 million toward Virginia’s gross state product each year. Referred to by economists as “added value,” this is the portion of business revenues that provides compensation to workers and capital income.
* Annually generates almost $85 million in tax revenues, made up of federal, state and local taxes.
The only state to host four NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races (two at Richmond International Raceway and two at Martinsville Speedway), the Commonwealth of Virginia sees a combined annual economic impact of $637 million. Richmond International Raceway hosts two NASCAR doubleheader weekends and one IndyCar Series weekend each year. The track’s property encompasses just over 1,000 acres and features 112,029 seats. During NASCAR event weekends, Richmond International Raceway hosts guests from all 50 states and more than a dozen foreign countries.(RIR PR)(3-29-2009)
- Airtran Airways offer 10% off flights to Richmond: On the heels of Richmond-area hotels offering reduced lodging rates and reducing or eliminating minimum night stays, AirTran Airways will be offering 10% off flights to Richmond International Airport for the May 1-2 NASCAR doubleheader weekend at Richmond International Raceway. As part of AirTran Airways’ EventSavers program, travelers can receive 10% off their flight to Richmond by calling 866-68EVENT (866-683-8368) and using event code: RIC050109. With the EventSavers program, the airline known for everyday low fares is now offering a way to save even more on airfare. With one call, travelers can receive a 10% savings off the flight cost to Richmond for the Crown Royal Presents The Russ Friedman 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and the Lipton Tea 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series races at Richmond International Raceway, May 1-2. Additional benefits of EventSavers include: no overnight stay or minimum stay requirement, priority advance seat assignments at time of ticketing and special event rates from Hertz. For race tickets and information, log on to www.rir.com or call 866-455-RACE (7223).(3-28-2009)
- Crown Royal Presents the “Your Name Here” 400 contest announced: An elaborate ceremony Friday at Daytona International Speedway revealed Russell Friedman, a two-time Purple Heart recipient, as the grand-prize winner of the third annual Crown Royal Presents the “Your Name Here” 400 contest. When Friedman accepted the prize – naming rights to the May 2 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway – he spoke of how his efforts could not be recognized alone and that it was important to honor all the individuals who serve our country. Friedman lives in Huntington Station, NY, and was chosen from a group of seven finalists from around the country based on a submission that detailed his experience serving in Iraq. The race at Richmond International Raceway on May 2, 2009 will now be titled “Crown Royal Presents the Russell Friedman 400.”
“Winning the Crown Royal ‘Your Name Here’ 400 contest is absolutely amazing and truly an overwhelming experience,” said Friedman. “Not only do I get to live out one of my dreams, but I get a chance to help recognize all the American soldiers who defend our freedoms on a day-to-day basis and definitely deserve a toast with Crown Royal.” Throughout the contest, finalists submitted online or video entries describing an honorable act or achievement worthy of toasting with Crown Royal Canadian whisky. Nearly 5,000 entries were received, detailing a myriad of achievements from the heroics of firefighters to dedicated fathers going the extra mile. The ceremony to unveil Friedman as the winner included a 20-foot replica Crown Royal bottle featuring his name as part of the Richmond race logo and was draped with an oversized iconic purple bag for two days leading up to the announcement. A countdown clock ticked away while seven finalists waited with great anticipation as NASCAR driver Jamie McMurray and representatives from Crown Royal and Richmond International Raceway pulled down the bag to reveal the grand-prize winner’s name.
The Russell Friedman 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, Friedman 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 "Be A Champion. Drink Responsibly." through Safe Rides Home designated driver initiatives and other programming designed to reinforce the importance of drinking responsibly. For tickets to events at Richmond International Raceway, call 866-455-RACE or visit www.rir.com online.(RIR PR)(2-14-2009)
- Richmond restructures ticket prices in Henrico Grandstand: Richmond International Raceway announced a ticket price restructuring for the Henrico Grandstand at America's Premier Short Track. For the 2009 season, more than 18,000 Sprint Cup Series tickets will be affected in the restructuring. Tickets currently on sale for the May 2 Crown Royal Presents The Your Name Here 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race and for events for the foreseeable future will reflect the new ticket price restructuring. Rows 1-5 of the Henrico Grandstand are now $40 per ticket and rows 6-15 are now $55 per ticket. The restructured prices reflect a 50% and 25% decrease, respectively, from the May 2008 prices. Fans currently seated in these areas affected by the price restructuring have already been contacted by raceway officials. Fans seated in other areas of the facility who are interested in relocating to the Henrico Grandstand can do so by calling the Richmond International Raceway ticket office at 866-455-RACE (7223).(RIR PR)(1-11-2009)
- RIR funds two local classroom projects: In its continuing effort to support the needs of local public school classrooms in the Greater Richmond Metropolitan Area, Richmond International Raceway officials announced recently that they are continuing their donations to various classrooms in need in its community. With the 2008-2009 school year in full swing, Richmond International Raceway Cares—the track’s charitable foundation—made its first two donations of the new school year to two local classrooms this week. In partnership with DonorsChoose.org, a non-profit website that connects classrooms in need with individuals and companies who want to make a difference through financial assistance, Richmond International Cares is funding a project at Arthur Ashe Jr. Elementary School in Henrico County and another project at Elizabeth D. Redd Elementary School in the City of Richmond.
The donation to Arthur Ashe Jr. Elementary School will support Ms. Chmil’s second graders in their quest to master their reading, writing and phonics skills. The students will benefit from hands-on materials that will assist them in this endeavor.
The donation to Elizabeth D. Redd Elementary School will assist Ms. Booker’s kindergarten through fifth grade math classes as they learn mathematical facts and concepts. The students will receive illustration books, enabling them to create stories that incorporate multiplication problems.
DonorsChoose.org is dedicated to addressing the lack of learning materials and experiences in our public schools. All donors are able to select the specific projects that they feel will have the biggest impact. Each project proposal is screened by DonorsChoose.org.(RIR PR)(11-19-2008)
