Member Spotlight: NASCAR
By Cheryl Coxwell, NASCAR Senior Director, Public & Government Affairs
From time trials on the sands of our beaches to today, the Daytona Beach area has long been associated with the automobile. The eyes of the world are once again on our community, as the racing season kicks into high gear at Daytona International Speedway.
The action began in January with IMSA’s Roar Before the Rolex, an elite 3-day test session that sets the starting grid for the Rolex 24. Fans from around the globe traveled here to attend and participate in the 63rd Rolex 24 at Daytona, a showcase of the most prestigious automobiles in the world.
Sixty-one cars representing 11 manufacturers competed in the iconic race, which was broadcast on NBC Sports properties in the U.S. and generated over two million live views on the IMSA YouTube channel.
Hot on the heels of the Rolex 24, NASCAR and the Daytona International Speedway continue the momentum with preparations for Speedweeks. Thousands of fans from across the country and around the world gather at DAYTONA to watch the practice and qualifying sessions leading up to the 67th running of the Daytona 500 on Sunday, February 16.
The “Great American Race” is one of the most anticipated events in the motorsports world, a key driver of our local economy. Along with the Homestead-Miami Speedway, and Sebring Raceway, our events generate $1.8 billion in economic activity statewide annually.
We are proud of our events at DAYTONA, but we are equally proud of our community who go above and beyond to make our guests feel welcome and appreciated during their visits to our community. Together, we are the World Center of Racing.
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