Dale Earnhardt Jr-Backed $18-Million Effort That Brought Forgotten Track to Life Receives Heartwarming Recognition

Dale Earnhardt Jr’s contributions to the industry could end up making a very long list. His horizon of impact is wide, from podcasts to late-model cars to renovating tracks. But another thing that keeps getting longer is the list of accolades he’ll receive for his work.

The latest addition to Junior’s cabinet will be the Second Quarter Pocono Raceway Spirit Award. The reason? For his immense contribution to the redemption story of the forgotten track, North Wilkesboro. The venue ultimately came to host this year’s All-Star race which is commendable work in the given timeframe.

Dale Earnhardt Jr and the NASCAR CEO managed to revive North Wilkesboro

Earnhardt collaborated with CEO Marcus Smith to put together this plan and propose this to the authorizing body. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper approved of the plan in an instant, showing trust in the abilities of the NASCAR duo. Reserving the American Rescue Plan Act funds for revitalizing North Wilkesboro Speedway contributed a remarkable $18 million to the cause. North Carolina legislature further provided more financial assistance with $4 million.

In May 2022, the North Carolina Department of Commerce decentralized $45.8 million to help in upgrading the infrastructure at 17 motorsport venues. That is a great deal of money and an apt use of it as well. This helped NASCAR to make a return to the abandoned track after 26 years. With Kyle Larson dominating the event, the race also proved to be a huge success. Much of this success must be credited to the creators of this idea.

To reward Smith, Dale Earnhardt Jr and other personalities got involved in the revival of the culturally iconic track, National Motorsports Press Association celebrates their efforts with the award. Their work in the smooth operation of the whole process rightfully deserves an award to acknowledge the efforts put in by the team.

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North Wilkesboro’s importance as a venue in NASCAR

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The last time a Cup Series car raced in North Wilkesboro before This All-Star Race was in 1996. Despite a short-term resumption in racing activities, nothing on the level of Cup Series happened at the venue. Although some drivers had their complains from the track, most of the conduction was pretty smooth as Larson showed his prowess in the car.

In a public statement, Governor Cooper acknowledged the need for a boost in the motorsports department. He said, “ Motorsports are critical to North Carolina’s history, culture and economy, and our investments have helped to get the engines running again in places that needed revival.”

“North Wilkesboro Speedway is back and better than ever, and the All-Star Race will take it to new heights.” said Cooper, joyous over success of the plan.

With NASCAR’s celebration of its 75th anniversary this year, North Wilkesboro’s revival comes at the perfect time. North Carolina remains one of the most strategically important regions for NASCAR. With 90% of NASCAR’s teams based in that area, they will look to increase their grasp there.

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