Former Cup Series driver Ricky Craven returns to New Hampshire Motor Speedway to serve as the pace car driver during the Mobil 1 301. This homecoming excites Craven, a two-time race winner from Maine, as NHMS holds a special place in his heart. Fans can look forward to his weekend appearances, including an autograph session and participation in diverse events. Craven’s rich racing history and involvement promise an exciting race weekend filled with action and engagement.
Key Highlights
- Ricky Craven, a former Cup Series driver, returns to New Hampshire Motor Speedway as the pace car driver for the Mobil 1 301 event.
- Craven, a two-time Cup Series winner from Maine, considers NHMS his favorite racetrack, providing a home field advantage.
- The event weekend includes Craven hosting an autograph session featuring his iconic Tide car and participating in various fan engagements.
- On-track action at NHMS begins September 19, culminating in the Mobil 1 301 race on September 21, which launches the Round of 12.
- Craven’s return enhances the excitement as he interacts with fans and joins other NASCAR figures during the event weekend.
Ricky Craven Returns to Lead Cup Series at New Hampshire
Ricky Craven’s return to the NASCAR Cup Series as the pace car driver at New Hampshire Motor Speedway marks a poignant moment in his storied career.
Scheduled for September 21, Craven, a two-time Cup Series winner and native of Newburgh, Maine, will lead 36 competitors to the green flag for the Mobil 1 301.
This event resonates deeply with Craven, who regards NHMS as his favorite racetrack, where he often felt a home field advantage during his driving days.
Expressing his anticipation, Craven stated he has looked forward to this opportunity for months, emphasizing the significance of returning to a venue that has long held a special place in his heart.
His participation highlights a celebration of both his legacy and local roots.
Craven’s Weekend Appearances
The excitement surrounding Ricky Craven’s return to New Hampshire Motor Speedway extends beyond his role as the pace car driver for the Mobil 1 301.
Throughout the weekend, Craven will engage with fans in several appearances that celebrate his legacy and connection to the sport. On Saturday, Sept. 20, he will host an autograph session featuring the iconic Tide car he drove to victory at Darlington Raceway, followed by a guest appearance on “The Magic Mile” Happy Hour Show alongside NASCAR luminaries.
The next day, he will participate in the Wicked Good Live Auction to support Speedway Children’s Charities and make a guest appearance on Trackside Live.
Craven’s presence promises to elevate the excitement of this crucial race weekend.
Ricky Craven’s Career Highlights
A remarkable expedition through the world of NASCAR defines Craven’s career, marked by considerable achievements and unforgettable moments.
Particularly, his win at Darlington Raceway on March 16, 2003, remains etched in history, with a razor-thin margin of victory of just .002 seconds over Kurt Busch, a record that stood for nearly eight years.
Over his 278 starts in the NASCAR Cup Series, Craven secured two victories, 17 top-fives, and 41 top-tens, demonstrating his consistency and skill.
His expertise extended to the NASCAR Xfinity Series, where he claimed four wins and 57 top-tens across 142 starts.
Furthermore, Craven’s brief stint in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series yielded one win, further solidifying his legacy as a versatile and competitive driver.
On-Track Action at NHMS
Excitement fills the air as on-track action at New Hampshire Motor Speedway (NHMS) gets underway, presenting an invigorating lineup of events.
Kicking off on Friday, September 19, the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour (NWMT) and NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS) will engage in practice and qualifying sessions, alongside the SIG SAUER Academy Dirt Duels at The Flat Track.
The intensity escalates on Saturday with a doubleheader, featuring the Mohegan Sun 100 NWMT race and the Team EJP 175 NCTS Playoffs race, concluding with NCS practice and qualifying.
The weekend culminates on Sunday as the NCS drivers tackle “The Magic Mile,” launching the Round of 12 with the highly anticipated Mobil 1 301, promising exhilarating competition and tactical maneuvers.
Off-Track Entertainment and Fan Experiences
As the on-track events at New Hampshire Motor Speedway captivate racing fans, the off-track entertainment offers a vibrant complement to the weekend’s festivities.
Highlights include “The Magic Mile” Happy Hour Show and Trackside Live, which create an electric atmosphere. Fans can unwind at The Groove hangout, enjoying live music from Draw the Line and Being Petty: The Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers Experience.
A Family Movie Night featuring *Captain America: Brave New World* adds a cinematic touch, while diverse driver appearances and a slate of live performances improve the experience.
Fireworks and extra surprises guarantee that the excitement extends beyond the racetrack, making this gathering a complex celebration for all attendees.
News In Brief: Former Cup Driver Returns Home to Take On Cup Stars at NHMS
Ricky Craven’s return to New Hampshire Motor Speedway not only rekindles fond memories for fans but also emphasizes the enduring spirit of NASCAR’s community. As he takes on current Cup stars, his presence brings a unique blend of nostalgia and enthusiasm, reminding everyone of the sport’s rich history. With exhilarating on-track action and vibrant off-track experiences, this weekend promises to be a celebration of racing, uniting generations of fans and drivers similarly in their shared passion for the sport.
ALSO READ: NASCAR Driver’s Wife Opens Up About Paddock Drama and Rejection!
