NASCAR Xfinity Returns to Revamped Rockingham Speedway After 21 Years
The NASCAR Xfinity and CRAFTSMAN Truck Series are gearing up for an exciting Easter tripleheader weekend at the historic Rockingham Speedway, known as “The Rock.” This event marks the Xfinity Series’ return to Rockingham for the first time since 2004.
The North Carolina Education Lottery 250 will air at 4 p.m. ET on CW, MRN, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. Drivers will face the newly repaved 0.94-mile track, making the race unpredictable and exciting.
Rockingham Speedway: A Track with History and Transformation
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Rockingham Speedway has been a cherished venue in NASCAR for many years. The last Xfinity Series race here was won by Jamie McMurray in 2004.
Since then, the speedway has changed significantly, including a repaving project in late 2022. The track is now remeasured at 0.94 miles, creating a new challenge for most competitors.
Kasey Kahne: The Veteran Returns
Only Kasey Kahne in the field has competitive Xfinity Series experience at Rockingham, last racing here in 2004. Kahne, a sprint car driver and team owner, will make his first Xfinity start since 2017, driving the No. 33 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet.
Despite his long break, Kahne quickly adjusted to stock car racing during a test in January. He noted that after six and a half years away, he felt comfortable once he reached Turn 3. His previous success at Rockingham, including a Truck Series win in 2012, adds interest to his return.
Testing and Preparation: Gaining an Edge
Kahne’s experience is valuable, but other drivers have also been preparing for the race. Sheldon Creed, Brandon Jones, and series leader Justin Allgaier participated in a Goodyear tire test last November, learning about the track’s new surface.
The organizational test in January gave drivers from both the Xfinity and Truck Series a chance to get familiar with the revamped speedway.
Justin Allgaier’s Pursuit of Glory
For Justin Allgaier, the stakes are high. He is competing for a record eighth $100,000 bonus in the final Xfinity Dash 4 Cash race of the season.
To win the bonus, Allgaier must finish ahead of three other eligible drivers: teammates Carson Kvapil and Sammy Smith, and Joe Gibbs Racing’s Brandon Jones. Allgaier expressed excitement about returning to Rockingham and confidence in his team’s preparation.
Drivers to Watch: Rising Stars and Seasoned Competitors
Several drivers besides Kahne and Allgaier could make an impact at Rockingham. Sheldon Creed and Brandon Jones, who participated in the Goodyear tire test, have gathered important data.
Katherine Legge, who made her NASCAR Cup Series debut at Phoenix earlier this season, will make her first Xfinity Series start since 2023 at Road America. Sammy Smith and Brandon Jones will compete in both the Xfinity and Truck Series this weekend.
Anticipation Builds for the North Carolina Education Lottery 250
The North Carolina Education Lottery 250 is set to be a must-watch event. A mix of experienced drivers and rising stars are ready to face the challenges of Rockingham Speedway.
The newly repaved track, the Dash 4 Cash bonus, and Kasey Kahne’s return add excitement and unpredictability. Fans are eager to see who will conquer “The Rock” and take the win.
For more detailed information on the race and the drivers, you can read the full article on Speedway Digest.
