In the annals of NASCAR history, few stories resonate with as much poetic justice as the resurrection of the North Wilkesboro Speedway. Once a hallowed ground that witnessed five Cup Series victories by the legendary Dale Earnhardt Sr., this iconic track faced a tragic decline in 1996, succumbing to neglect as it made way for the Texas Motor Speedway and the allure of larger markets.
However, the wheels of fate began to turn when Dale Earnhardt Jr. paid a visit to the abandoned speedway in 2019, not merely for a nostalgic journey but to assist iRacing in scanning the track for its virtual game. Little did he know that this visit would set the stage for a remarkable comeback.
Revival Initiated by Unlikely Heroes:
Dale Earnhardt Jr.‘s connection with North Wilkesboro Speedway went beyond the digital realm. Witnessing the dilapidated state of the once glorious track, Earnhardt Jr. became a catalyst for its resurrection. But he wasn’t alone in this endeavor. Marcus Smith, the CEO of Speedway Motorsports, joined forces with Earnhardt Jr., infusing not just millions from his own wealth but also an unwavering commitment to revive the iconic speedway.
The culmination of their efforts saw North Wilkesboro hosting the 2023 All-Star Race, bringing immeasurable joy to the local community and rekindling the fond memories of fans who had cherished the short track during its golden era.
Honoring Triumph Over Adversity:
The National Motorsports Press Association’s (NMPA) Spirit Award, designed to recognize character, achievement in adversity, sportsmanship, and contributions to motorsports, rightfully found its 2023 recipients in Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Marcus Smith. Alongside them, Terri Parsons and Steven Wilson were also acknowledged for their pivotal roles in the resurrection of North Wilkesboro Speedway. The award is a testament to their unwavering commitment to breathing life back into this racing relic.
Wow. That’s cool.
— Dale Earnhardt Jr. (@DaleJr) January 22, 2024
Earnhardt Jr. and Smith, caught off guard by the announcement, expressed their sentiments. Junior, in his characteristic style, exclaimed, “Wow. That’s cool,” while Smith, emphasizing the power of collaboration, remarked, “Very cool! It’s amazing what can be accomplished when people work together!” What began as an unexpected turn of events, with Earnhardt Jr. and Smith collaborating after Junior’s plane crash-landed, evolved into one of the most inspiring stories of 2023.
The narrative of North Wilkesboro Speedway takes on a poetic twist. Once abandoned by Speedway Motorsports in favor of events at Texas Motor Speedway, it was now Texas Motor Speedway getting sidelined to make room for the beloved short track. The revival unfolded precisely when the local community needed a beacon of hope amid shifting economic landscapes and diminishing job prospects.
The revival, often credited to Earnhardt Jr.‘s proposal to Marcus Smith, was, in reality, a response to the relentless demand from fans. The outcry for the return of North Wilkesboro echoed through the years since its departure from the Cup Series calendar.
Marcus Smith vividly remembers the groundswell of support, acknowledging, “There was a tsunami of support. It grew and grew, and as it continued, I was like, ‘People don’t get it. They didn’t really understand how far dilapidated the track was beyond repair.”
Fan Advocacy and the Magic of North Wilkesboro:
While the efforts of Earnhardt Jr. and Smith were instrumental, the real champions of North Wilkesboro’s return were the fans. Their unwavering passion and advocacy played a pivotal role in resurrecting the track. The return of North Wilkesboro shattered attendance records during the all-star weekend, proving the undying love and nostalgia associated with this historic venue.
Earnhardt Jr. acknowledged the grace shown by fans, emphasizing their sheer happiness and excitement, even in the face of imperfections. The temporary grandstands and last-minute installations didn’t dampen the spirits of the fans. For Earnhardt Jr., the energy and excitement experienced that night at North Wilkesboro were unparalleled. Smith concurred, stating, “That was the first time it became apparent we could really do something if we really put our minds to it.”
Deserving NMPA Award Recipients:
As the grand plan for North Wilkesboro orchestrated by Earnhardt Jr. and Marcus Smith bore fruit, the NMPA Spirit Award bestowed upon them is a recognition well earned. The accolade is not just a celebration of their triumph over adversity but a testament to the enduring spirit of NASCAR and the profound impact of collaborative efforts. The revival of North Wilkesboro Speedway stands as a testament to the resilience of racing history and the indomitable spirit of those who refuse to let it fade away.
