Bass Pro Shops Night Race Weekend Schedule: The Bass Pro Shops Night Race Weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway promises a carefully crafted schedule that caters to both seasoned racing enthusiasts and newcomers similarly. Starting Thursday, September 19, the weekend unfolds with a series of events, including ARCA Menards Series practice and qualifying sessions, leading into the Truck Series races. As Friday shifts into the NASCAR Xfinity Series, anticipation builds for the thrilling Food City 300. However, the pinnacle event occurs on Saturday evening, where is atmosphere electric. What are the defining moments and key details that could shape this unforgettable weekend?
Key Highlights
- The weekend kicks off on Thursday, September 19, with ARCA Menards Series practice and qualifying events.
- Truck Series races, including Bush’s Beans 200 and UNOH 200, take place on Thursday evening.
- Friday, September 20, features NASCAR Xfinity Series practice, qualifying, and the Food City 300 race.
- NASCAR Cup Series qualifying occurs on Friday, setting the stage for the main event.
- The Bass Pro Shops Night Race, the highlight of the weekend, starts on Saturday, September 21, at 7:30 p.m. E.T.
Race Details and Broadcast Information
The anticipated Bass Pro Shops Night Race is scheduled for Saturday, September 21, at the iconic Bristol Motor Speedway, marking a vital moment in the 2024 NASCAR season.
As the 29th race of the season and the tertiary in the intense NASCAR playoffs, this event is poised to attract considerable attention from racing enthusiasts and industry professionals similarly.
It's Race Week in Bristol, Tennessee!!🔥 🏁 #ItsBristolBaby pic.twitter.com/mZ7SMcxncF
— Bristol Motor Speedway (@ItsBristolBaby) September 16, 2024
The race will cover a total distance of 266.5 miles, presenting a challenging yet exhilarating environment for drivers, teams, and fans. Competing in the latest Next Gen cars, which have already shown their skill in five previous events at Bristol, drivers will need to exhibit exceptional talent and strategy to navigate the unique half-mile oval track, known for its high-speed action and close-quarters racing.
The structure of the race is divided into three stages, adding layers of tactical complexity. Stage 1 will conclude on lap 125, followed by another 125 laps in Stage 2. The Final Stage will see competitors racing for 250 laps, in a climactic finish that could greatly influence playoff standings.
Fans can catch all the action live, as the race will be broadcast on USA Network and NBC Sports, beginning at 7:30 p.m. ET.
Track Information and Historical Context
Bristol Motor Speedway stands as one of the most iconic venues in NASCAR, renowned for its unique characteristics and rich history. This 0.53-mile short track, often dubbed “The Last Great Colosseum,” is distinguished by its steep banking—26 to 30 degrees in the turns and 6 to 10 degrees on the straightaways—creating an exhilarating racing environment where speed and strategy intertwine.
Since hosting its inaugural NASCAR Cup Series race in 1961, Bristol has become a sacred ground for motorsport enthusiasts. The inaugural Bass Pro Shops Night Race, won by Jack Smith and Johnny Allen, set a precedent for thrilling competition under the lights. As the 127th Cup Series race approaches, anticipation is palpable, with 37 drivers set to tackle 500 laps over 266.5 miles.
Key aspects of Bristol Motor Speedway include:
- Short Track Dynamics: The close quarters and tight turns foster intense competition and frequent lead changes, intensifying the racing experience.
- Fan Engagement: Its unique layout allows fans to be close to the action, creating an electrifying atmosphere unmatched in other venues.
- Historical Significance: Bristol has witnessed countless memorable moments, solidifying its place in NASCAR lore and contributing to its ongoing legacy.
As the Bass Pro Shops Night Race approaches, the blend of history, competition, and fan engagement guarantees that Bristol Motor Speedway remains a cornerstone of the NASCAR experience.
Defending Champion and Records
Denny Hamlin, a standout driver for Joe Gibbs Racing, enters the upcoming Bass Pro Shops Night Race as the defending champion, having secured a thrilling victory in last year’s event. His win not only shows his racing skill but also solidified his position among the elite in NASCAR’s rich history, particularly at Bristol Motor Speedway, known for its, short-track racing.
The Bass Pro Shops Night Race has a storied legacy, with Darrell Waltrip holding the record for the most wins at this event, having succeeded seven times between 1979 and 1992. Waltrip’s successive victories, particularly in the late 1980s, are a proof of his driving expertise and his ability to master the complexities of Bristol’s unique layout.
Following closely is Cale Yarborough, whose five wins further emphasize the competitive nature of this race.
Among the current crop of talented drivers, Hamlin’s victory last year places him in a distinguished group. He joins Kyle Busch and Joey Logano as the only active drivers with multiple Bristol Fall race wins, shows their consistent performance at this challenging venue.
As Hamlin prepares to defend his title, is not just for him but for all competitors keen to etch their names into the annals of this iconic race. The upcoming event promises to deliver excitement, as the quest for supremacy continues in a race steeped in tradition and fierce rivalry.
Full Weekend Schedule
As excitement builds for the Bass Pro Shops Night Race weekend, fans and teams similar can look forward to an extensive schedule that promises thrilling action from start to finish.
The weekend is packed with competitive events, showcasing a range of racing series that highlight the skill and strategy inherent to motorsports.
Bristol
ETThu
1-ARCA p&q
3-FS2-Truck p&q
5-FS1-ARCA 200
8-FS1-Truck 55-55-90Fri
2-USA-Xfin p&q
4-USA-Cup p&q
7-CW-Prerace
7:30-CW-Xfin 85-85-130Sat-USA
7-Prerace
7:30-Cup 125-125-250— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) September 16, 2024
The schedule kicks off on Thursday, September 19, with the ARCA Menards Series, featuring both practice and qualifying sessions. Following this, the Truck Series takes center stage, culminating in two exhilarating races: the Bush’s Beans 200 and the UNOH 200 presented by Ohio Logistics.
On Friday, September 20, the intensity ramps up with the NASCAR Xfinity Series practice and qualifying, paving the way for the NASCAR Cup Series sessions in the afternoon. The day concludes with the Food City 300, a must-watch event that sets the tone for Saturday’s grand finale.
Saturday, September 21, is the pinnacle of the weekend, in the much-anticipated Bass Pro Shops Night Race at 7:30 p.m. ET. This race not only serves as the highlight but also embodies the electric atmosphere of night racing at Bristol.
Key events to watch for include:
- ARCA Menards Series events on Thursday: crucial for gauging upcoming talent.
- NASCAR Cup Series qualifying on Friday: A decisive moment for top drivers.
- The Bass Pro Shops Night Race on Saturday: The main event that draws the largest crowd.
This weekend promises to be an unforgettable experience for all racing enthusiasts.
News in Brief: Bass Pro Shops Night Race Weekend Schedule
The Bass Pro Shops Night Race weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway promises an exhilarating lineup of events that shows the talent and excitement of motorsports. From the ARCA Menards Series to the thrilling NASCAR Xfinity Series, each day features critical races and qualifying sessions that contribute to the comprehensive spectacle. The climax of this vibrant weekend on Saturday night will surely capture the attention of racing enthusiasts, solidifying Bristol’s reputation as a premier destination for competition.
ALSO READ: Bass Pro Shops Night Race 2024 Entry List: Full Field Breakdown and Notable Entries
