Ross Chastain, known for competing in multiple NASCAR series, recently discussed his absence from the Battle of Broadway 150 at Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway, emphasizing that financial constraints were the driving factor. The issue of Ross Chastain missing Battle of Broadway 150 became clear after his busy Nashville weekend did not include the much-anticipated Pro Late Model race.
Financial Barriers Keep Chastain Out of Nashville Short-Track Showdown
This past weekend, Chastain had commitments in both the Xfinity Series and the Cup Series. He secured a fifth-place finish in the Xfinity event and came in 11th in the Cup race, both also held in Nashville. Despite these achievements, Chastain was left wanting more after missing the Pro Late Model event, having enjoyed his previous experience alongside Josh Berry in last year’s race at the same track.
Last year, he raced competitively in the Battle of Broadway 150, forming a memorable rivalry with Berry. He had anticipated joining this season as well, only to be stopped by logistical hurdles and a lack of sponsor backing.
As Chastain explained,
“It just costs a lot of money. Last year, Tootsies sponsored us to do it, and that was just a big lift for all of us and them.”
—Ross Chastain, Trackhouse Racing Driver
Without that sponsor assistance in 2024, making the return to the Fairgrounds became unfeasible. Though Chastain said he is still highly interested in local short-track events, practical considerations held him back from competing this time around.
“I want to be a part of short-track racing. But this week, or just this year leading into it, it just didn’t really make sense. And, yeah, there’s no real reason. It just didn’t work out. I want to do it again, but it takes a lot of effort.”
—Ross Chastain, Trackhouse Racing Driver
Last season’s dramatic finish had seen him and Berry aggressively racing for victory, only for Trey Craig to seal the win in the final moments.
Chastain’s Commitment to Return
Despite disappointment this year, Chastain made it clear his absence is not permanent. He expressed a strong connection to the Nashville racing scene and is looking forward to more opportunities at the Fairgrounds.
“My life with Trackhouse draws me to Nashville a lot. This town makes me feel at home, and now I’ve got a race at the Fairgrounds under my belt. It won’t be my last. I promise you that.”
—Ross Chastain, Trackhouse Racing Driver
Those words indicate his intent to compete in future editions of the Battle of Broadway 150, provided sponsorship and scheduling align.
Josh Berry’s Disqualification Shakes Up the Race
Meanwhile, Josh Berry began his weekend in Nashville with a nearly perfect run, crossing the finish line first in the Battle of Broadway 150. However, relief turned to disappointment when a post-race technical inspection discovered a violation concerning the car’s left-side weight, resulting in his disqualification and the loss of an apparent victory.
Berry had led much of the race, outpacing competitors over 93 laps, and hoped his dominant performance would inspire a strong showing in the Cup Series on Sunday. Instead, the series of misfortunes ended with him finishing 30th in the Cup event, bringing an emotional rollercoaster to a close.
Chastain’s situation, coupled with Berry’s heartbreak, brought tension and strong emotions to this year’s Battle of Broadway 150, once again highlighting the unpredictable nature of short-track racing at Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway.
With key figures like Ross Chastain and Josh Berry eager to remain part of these events, anticipation already builds for future races at the storied fairgrounds, where opportunity, heartbreak, and fierce competition are never far apart.
