Since the revival of North Wilkesboro, there has been a lot of hype surrounding historic tracks. Trackhouse Racing team owner and NASCAR disruptor recently suggested a “what if” idea regarding bringing back some of the old tracks to hold a historic event. However, while fans of the sport liked the idea, they also pointed out a potential flaw in his elaborate plan.
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Justin Marks tweeted, “What if we did the first-ever NASCAR historic race event. 4 races: 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, 00’s. Let’s find all the restored, track-ready cars in the US. Get a bunch of legends to the event. And celebrate the decades of history. N Wilkesboro? The Rock? Charlotte? What do y’all think…“
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In a separate tweet, Marks also mentioned that the races would not be competitive as such. Rather, they would act as a sort of exhibition race. While on paper, his idea seems amazing. Unfortunately, upgrading the tracks to today’s safety standards would render the historic aspect of it redundant. Moreover, the cost associated with each revival would also be high. But, since North Wilkesboro Speedway, saw a new lease on life.
There has been speculation whether NASCAR would prefer to head back to some other historic venues as well. It would definitely pose a good marketing venture for the sport. Moreover, it would also bring back some of the lost fans. Instead of running away from its roots and heading towards street courses, NASCAR would do far better by embracing its past.
NASCAR fans answer Justin Marks’s question
Fans appreciated the idea from the Trackhouse Racing team owner. However, their major concern was the introduction of safety systems would take away the historical aspect. Especially with the older cars. In comparison, the latest Next-Gens are far off in terms of driver safety.
One fan duly pointed out that the older cars would be faster than the cars of today. So once again the question of safety would be brought forth while racing in them. Another fan suggested including the historic cars in a separate fan zone. Meanwhile, run them only for a few exhibition laps.
I am so damn glad you don’t leave all your ideas in your head for only you to know about, sir you are a true legend in the making!!
— simon jones jr (@karting36) December 18, 2022
Sounds cool on paper, but after safety upgrades would it really leave much nostalgia?
— Ian Schrader (@Ianthin) December 18, 2022
I believe With all the safety updates it would diminish from the nostalgic value /authenticity of the cars. But I think having them in a fanzone display experience and running moderate exhibition laps would be fantastic. If sponsors still exist it’s a great activation opportunity
— Tiffin Willareth (@_T_Willy) December 18, 2022
I adore this idea! I would buy a ticket in a beat. Wilkesboro would be amazing for this one.
— Lisa Chanana (@LLChanana) December 18, 2022
This is why you’re one of the most important figure in nascar.
— Travis Lourie (@Travadelic) December 18, 2022
You’re the man to make that happen.
— Duke Smith (@RaiderMagic94) December 18, 2022
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Great idea but the Restored cars are going to be much faster now than they were then . (think safety)
— Old Auto Orphanage (@philmur41895005) December 18, 2022
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However, only after the commencement of the North Wilkesboro, will we be able to determine the placement of safety features. Without taking away the historical aspect of the venue. The track would set an example, surrounding the logistics and procedures. Only then can people like Marks would be able to take a deeper look at other historic tracks. But at the end of the day, who would not love to head back to such tracks? Especially the older fans would love it. It would be a trip down memory lane for many. Would you agree with Justin Marks’s historical race event idea? Let us know in the comments below.