Fans return to North Wilkesboro Speedway ahead of NASCAR All-Star Race

Fans returned to North Wilkesboro Speedway for an open house Wednesday ahead of next week’s NASCAR All-Star Race, a landmark night for the track that has been mostly dormant for more than a quarter century.

The country music had a more modern pop sound and a new generation of drivers greeted fans at the speedway. But some things remain the same: the stands and the signage retain their former look, and even the track surface has yet to be repaved.

Not only was the public allowed into the facility, but they could also walk the track and roam the infield and concourse. Fans described the experience as a blast from the past. 

“Hey, I’m just tickled to death," says Roger Taylor. He had regular seats for seven years when there were still races here. Wednesday was the first time he’s been back since the last NASCAR competition in 1996. 

“It crushed the community when it shut down. It just took the air out of us," he says. "You know, this racetrack meant a lot to North Wilkesboro.  But like I say, it ain’t necessarily a money deal for us. It’s the pride. It’s the pride in having the racing back.” 

That racing returns with NASCAR’s All-Star event next week.