| Washington State needs a NASCAR track. Our family knows from first hand experience what a wonderful, family-friendly sport NASCAR auto racing is and how it would positively benefit our state. My husband’s job took us from Washington State to Mooresville, North Carolina (NASCAR USA) for two years. When we moved there, we had zero interest in NASCAR, giving little thought to what seemed like a dirty sport. In less than one year, our perception totally changed as we grew to understand the sport and experience how exciting and family-friendly NASCAR really is.
It’s a broad spectrum sport supported and admired by all walks of life. In addition, we were fortunate to have our children attend the same school with the children of several NASCAR drivers, crew members, and car owners. These families are some of the most wonderful, kind and generous people in sports. They contribute abundantly to their communities and support and run numerous charities.
How does this relate to the Washington track? A track like the Lowe’s Motor Speedway in Concord, NC has multiple uses and extended benefits to their community. Like it or not, racing generates some of the highest revenues of any sport — and it is growing rapidly! The track there is tastefully constructed, and by no means an “eye-sore.” The track is open just about every weekend of the year for all types of racing, car shows, and many other types of events that attract all types of people.
This activity provides continuous employment for thousands of people, supporting nearby restaurants, stores, businesses and hotels. The beauty of the NASCAR track construction is that each track is created uniquely to its environment. Washington won’t have a “Lowe’s Motor Speedway” or a “Kansas City” track — we will have the track best suited for our area. I’d like to see a track that boasts our Evergreen State theme, embraces our beautiful scenery, and maintains our care and concern for a clean environment.
The International Speedway Corporation (ISC), is a reputable, trust-worthy organization. They know what they are doing and have been successful at it for decades. With Washington State’s exploding growth, the jobs, tourism, and recognition a NASCAR track would bring is just what is needed here. I believe the ISC has done their homework and is “right on track” for making this a true benefit for our economy.
Kris Klatt
Issaquah |
