For many, the summer months mean road trips to the beach followed by day trips to the city. While those are all absolutely wonderful things, we at Speedway Insider are huge fans of the cars, drivers, and tracks of the off-season. That is why we are so excited to tell you about a new off-season series that is shaping up to be one of the biggest winter series yet!
The Big 10 Series Begins In 2019
For those of you who love your NASCAR, you are no doubt already aware that there is a group of races called the Big 10 that are often referred to as the “Tenth Anniversary” series due to their adoption in 2018. The Big 10 is one of the biggest series in NASCAR, featuring some of the biggest names in the sport. Jack Beckman, who owns and operates Hickory Motor Speedway in North Carolina, has something special in mind for this winter series, and we can’t wait to tell you all about it.
History Of The Big 10
The Big 10 is one of NASCAR‘s longest-running series thanks to its prominent position in the sport. The first Big 10 race was held in 2001, and since then, it has evolved into a winter series in search of the best winter weather. The second race in the series will be held on Sunday, 12th February at 4:00 PM ET on the intermediate track at Watkins Glen International in Watkins Glen, New York.
With a 10th anniversary edition, the Big 10 series is certainly looking to mark a milestone in the annals of the sport. The series will celebrate its history by visiting some of the most iconic tracks in the country. This includes the Daytona International Speedway, where the series will run two races, and the Summit Racing Mills, where the series will run one race.
The 2019 Season Marks The Return Of NASCAR To Statesville
After a 16-year absence, NASCAR is set to make its return to Statesville with the Charlotte Motor Speedway hosting two Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series races, along with supporting races such as the Xfinity Series, Gander outboard boat race, and the K&N Pro Series. The first NASCAR Cup Series race will be held on Saturday, 4th April, and the second one will be a day later on Sunday, 5th April.
With this renewed focus on North Carolina, it is clear that NASCAR is looking to establish a significant presence in the state, which is great news for those of you who enjoy the finer things in life!
The Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Will Return To The Track
The Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series will be the focal point of the NASCAR oval in Statesville, as it was in 2018 when the series visited for the first time since 2014. After a three-year hiatus, Monster Energy is set to bring their championship-winning formula to the track. With Michael Waltrip, Darrell Waltrip, and Martin Truex Jr. leading the way, it will be fascinating to see how the NASCAR scene has evolved in the offseason. The series will feature 12 races in its inaugural season.
What Is A Race Director?
Depending on who you ask, a race director is someone with a variety of responsibilities. The primary function of a race director is to manage all aspects of the race, including scheduling, promoting, and enforcing the rules. On this front, the 2019 season will see a return of the popular and iconic Bill Wendell to his old stomping grounds at Daytona International Speedway. While Wendell is now employed by FOX Sports, his role as race director at Daytona International Speedway will return him to a familiar scene. Wendell, along with his team, will be in charge of the Monster Energy Series’ first race at the speedway on 4th April.
Other Key Members Of The Organization
Besides Wendell, the other key members of the organization include Joe Gunn, who is serving as chief steward, and Rob Shaw, who is serving as spotter. We at Speedway Insider are certain that NASCAR will not disappoint when it comes to the finer details behind the scenes at its biggest events. Fans of all ages can look forward to an abundance of entertainment this winter season as the series’ organizers navigate the complexities of putting on a successful event.