NASCAR’s Executive Vice President Ben Kennedy has a deep appreciation for the iconic Bowman Gray Stadium, which hosted its first Cup Series event since 1971 this weekend. Kennedy ran three ARCA East Series races at the track between 2011 and ’13, winning one of them in 2013.
Kennedy credits Bowman Gray with providing a unique racing experience that feels like a mix of tradition and modernity. The stadium’s history is palpable, from Richard Petty’s victories to Kennedy’s own family ties, which add a personal connection to the track.
As part of NASCAR’s efforts to bring the series back to its roots, significant upgrades have been made to the stadium, including a new Musco light system, SAFER barriers, and a catch fence. The goal is to preserve the intimate atmosphere while catering to the expectations of Cup Series fans.
Kennedy hopes that the Cup Series drivers will deliver an exciting show on Sunday night, with 23 drivers competing in the main event. Local stars Tim Brown and Burt Myers are also making their debuts, adding to the excitement.
For Kennedy, what makes Bowman Gray special is its ability to bring together generations of fans who share a deep connection to the sport. As he put it, “It’s for sure the racing product and everything that happens within those walls… It’s the stadium, it is the fieldhouse, but I think more than anything, it’s the fans.”
Source: https://racer.com/2025/01/30/cup-series-return-to-bowman-gray-special-in-so-many-ways-says-kennedy