NC By Train Rockingham: Special Ride to NASCAR’s Return

The N.C. Department of Transportation launches NC By Train Rockingham for NASCAR’s return. This special service runs from Raleigh to Rockingham Speedway on April 19. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Officials scheduled the train to enhance access to the April 19 Xfinity Series race at Rockingham. The speedway, dormant since hosting its last NASCAR Cup Series event in 2004, eagerly awaits fans.

Don’t miss…Chicagoland Transit Cuts Threaten Region

State Transportation Secretary Joey Hopkins expressed enthusiasm for this unique transportation initiative today. He and partners at Amtrak and Rockingham Speedway aim to showcase North Carolina’s rail service excellence.

Hopkins highlighted the success of last year’s Open Express to the U.S. Open in 2024. Consequently, this collaboration offers fans an exciting and convenient way to attend this historic event.

The train departs Raleigh Union Station at 9 a.m. ET, welcoming passengers for the journey. It stops in Cary and Southern Pines, then reaches Rockingham by 11:06 a.m. promptly.

Tickets cost $25 each way, and travelers can buy them directly on Amtrak’s official website. Onboard, passengers enjoy food and beverage options available for purchase during the trip.

Promoter Bob Sargent, president of Track Enterprises, thanked the N.C. Department of Transportation sincerely. He and Amtrak, along with CSX, coordinated this special train for NASCAR enthusiasts attending Rockingham.

Sargent emphasized the hassle-free experience this service provides to fans heading to the races. He personally prefers this relaxing travel option to and from the thrilling speedway events.

NC By Train Rockingham: A Historic Journey

Rockingham Speedway boasts a rich legacy, hosting Cup races from 1965 to 2004 consistently. It also featured Xfinity races from 1982 to 2004, cementing its place in motorsport history.

NASCAR briefly returned in 2012, and Kasey Kahne won the Truck Series race that year. Kyle Larson triumphed in the 2013 Truck race, but financial woes soon forced another exit.

Now, Trucks race on April 18, and Xfinity follows on April 19 at Rockingham Speedway. This marks a significant moment as NASCAR reclaims its spot at the iconic track.

Dan Lovenheim, who has owned the speedway since 2018, shared his excitement with The Charlotte Observer. He noted the community’s deep longing for NASCAR’s return after years of absence.

Lovenheim sees daily visitors snapping photos by the rocks out front, reflecting local pride. Moreover, he underscores the extraordinary enthusiasm rippling through the community for this revival.

NC By Train Rockingham Boosts NASCAR Excitement

The special train service enhances accessibility, boosting attendance for this much-anticipated NASCAR event. Thus, fans gain a seamless travel option while celebrating Rockingham’s storied racing heritage.

Hopkins and his team expect this initiative to draw more people to NC By Train services. They hope to spotlight the convenience and appeal of passenger rail across North Carolina.

Sargent anticipates strong turnout, and he encourages fans to seize this unique travel opportunity. He believes it elevates the race day experience, blending nostalgia with modern convenience.

Rockingham’s return to the NASCAR spotlight promises economic benefits and renewed excitement for locals. So, the speedway reemerges as a vibrant hub for motorsport fans statewide and beyond.

This collaboration between transportation and racing leaders underscores a commitment to community engagement. Ultimately, it delivers a win for fans, the sport, and North Carolina’s rail network.

Source: www.on3.com

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed: