Ben Kennedy, NASCAR's Executive Vice President, reflects on Bowman Gray Stadium's significance as the NASCAR Cup Series returns for the first time since 1971 with the Cook Out Clash.

Kennedy, who won at Bowman Gray in 2013 during his ARCA Menards East Series career, emphasizes the track's rich history, including victories by Richard Petty and Fonty Flock. The venue holds special significance for his family, with his great-grandfather's connection to the facility.

The upcoming event will host 15,000 spectators from five countries and nearly 45 states. To prepare for Cup Series racing, the facility received significant upgrades, including a new Musco light system, SAFER barriers, and catch fence installation.

Notable features of the event include:

• 23 drivers qualifying for the main event
• Local stars Tim Brown and Burt Myers making their Cup Series debuts
• NASCAR's commitment to maintaining the traditional stadium atmosphere
• The track's status as NASCAR's longest-standing sanctioned weekly venue

Kennedy emphasizes that Bowman Gray's true essence lies in its passionate fanbase, with generations of families attending races and maintaining their traditional seating locations for decades. The goal is to preserve this unique atmosphere while showcasing NASCAR's premier series at this historic venue.

The event represents both a return to NASCAR's roots and an unprecedented moment in the sport's history, setting the stage for the 2025 season while honoring the track's legacy and community connection.

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