Locked In 150 Events: This past weekend, Florence Motor Speedway in South Carolina pulled off a brilliant promotional stunt: “The Prelude to the Southern 500,” an event featuring late-model stock cars in a race called the Locked In 150. With the event’s success, which attracted big names like Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Chase Briscoe, questions now arise about whether other short tracks could replicate this promotional strategy. The winner of the Locked In 150 earns a guaranteed spot in the 31st South Carolina 400, a prestigious late-model stock car race. The event’s timing and location, just 20 minutes from Darlington Raceway, maximized NASCAR’s nearby race weekend draw, including Darlington’s Southern 500.
Florence Motor Speedway isn’t the only venue with such an opportunity. South Boston Speedway and Langley Speedway in Virginia also present a chance to host promotional events tied to their big races, the Thunder-Road Harley Davidson 200 and Hampton Heat. Using Florence as a blueprint, these tracks could host early-season events that add prestige to existing races and potentially boost attendance and participation.
The idea extends beyond individual tracks. Series like the CARS Tour can also take advantage of the promotional mechanism. This year, the CARS Tour partnered with NASCAR for a week-long event at North Wilkesboro. Despite being a midweek race, the event attracted massive car counts, including NASCAR stars like Kevin Harvick, Brad Keselowski, and Ross Chastain. The CARS Tour could move their date at Florence to coincide with NASCAR’s spring race at Darlington or even potentially collaborate with NASCAR-owned tracks like Martinsville or Richmond.
Florence’s plan is great for the sport, not simply the tracks or series. NASCAR’s popularity allows smaller tracks and series to introduce more fans to other racing. The Locked In 150 pulled through after Hurricane Idalia forced a September 1 shift from August 30. However, the date change didn’t reduce enthusiasm or participation, proving the idea’s strength.
In essence, this technique benefits tracks, drivers, and fans. It boosts big-ticket race prestige and revenue for tracks. It’s a rare chance for young drivers to race alongside great celebrities, which may attract sponsors and bigger racing series. It gives fans more racing excitement and the chance to witness their NASCAR favorites in a different venue.
This method could also work at Southern National Motorsports Park, which hosts the Thanksgiving Classic. The Solid Rock Carriers CARS Tour season premiere was held at the park earlier this year, demonstrating ties between the series and the track. Collaboration is possible, with the CARS Tour winner guaranteed a slot or pole position in the Thanksgiving Classic.
The success at Florence serves as proof of concept that other tracks and series could use to their advantage. The onus is now on them to grab the opportunity and aim to replicate the success seen in South Carolina. While it’s up to each individual track or series to make the final call, the case for doing so is compelling. The formula of tying a smaller but significant race to a major event nearby has proven its worth, offering a practical roadmap for other venues and racing series to follow. Only time will tell if they decide to do so, but the potential benefits are too significant to ignore.
Our Reader’s Queries
Who won at Florence Motor Speedway?
Brown took control of the 2023 South Carolina 400 at Florence Motor Speedway in the second half of the 250-lap race. Despite facing stiff competition from Kaden Honeycutt, Carson Kvapil, Brenden Queen, and Dale Earnhardt Jr., Brown held on to secure the win. His dominant performance was a testament to his skill and determination on the track.
