Charlotte Motor Speedway sets stage for Coca-Cola 600 pre-race show

CONCORD, N.C. — Officials with Charlotte Motor Speedway will once again pay tribute to America’s armed forces this year with a Coca-Cola 600 pre-race show that will include everything from Humvees to Howitzers, helicopters to F-16 fighter jets. And of course a tremendous number of members of the military.

It’s a tradition that’s taken place for approximately four decades at the 1.5-mile speedway, which will host the annual Memorial Day weekend race for the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series May 28.

In previous years, NASCAR teams have honored fallen military members by displaying those members’ names across the top of the windshields of their race cars. Some teams have included special paint schemes tied into the Memorial Day celebration as well.

The length of the race, 400 laps totaling 600 miles, is the series’ longest. The salute to the troops pre-race show is one of the most fitting.

“Last year was my first opportunity to actually bring my family to a NASCAR event,” Army Chief Warrant Officer Paul Williams Jr. said.

The annual pre-race show, he said, is “amazing.”

“Any time we can show off a little bit of our tools to the fans of NASCAR, that strong community, is an amazing opportunity for us.

“And then what we get back from NASCAR and its fans, I don’t think I’ve ever been around a community that really takes us in as their own … one that just screams America much like we do.”

Track officials announced plans for this year’s pre-race show Thursday at the race track. Afterward, former Coca-Cola 600 winner Matt Kenseth (Joe Gibbs Racing No. 20 Toyota) gave military members in attendance pace car rides around the track.

In addition to ground exhibitions and a pre-race performance by the 82nd Airborne Division, other elements this year will include a 21-gun salute and recognition of five Medal of Honor recipients.

“I’m proud of the fact that the largest Memorial Day service in America happens right here in Concord, North Carolina, thanks to Marcus Smith and the speedway,” Rep. Richard Hudson, R-NC 8th District, said.

Smith is President and CEO of Speedway Motorsports Inc., which owns CMS as well as seven other venues that host NASCAR-sanctioned events.

“For anyone who’s never been there, it is a moving experience, it is an incredible experience,” Hudson said. “Whatever is going on in your life, whatever you’re concerned about, you come to this event and you leave feeling good about America. And that’s what it’s all about. I’m proud to be a part of it.”

Officials also announced that Channing Tatum, who plays the lead role in the upcoming movie, “Logan Lucky,” will serve as Grand Marshal for this year’s Coca-Cola 600.