NASCAR Hall of Fame - Countdown to Opening Day

In less than two short months, the NASCAR Hall of Fame will make its grand opening in Charlotte!  The Hall of Fame is designed to be an interactive, entertainment attraction that honors the history and heritage of NASCAR.  From what I’ve read, it sounds like there will be lots to see and do!  Attractions will include NASCAR artifacts, interactive exhibits, a 275-person state-of-the-art theater and a Hall of Honor. There will also be a restaurant, retail outlet and a NASCAR Media Group operated broadcast studio.

Just as exciting as the opening of the Hall of Fame itself is the list of inaugural inductees into the Hall of Fame.  This year’s class includes Bill France, Sr.; Richard Petty; Bill France, Jr.; Dale Earnhardt and Junior Johnson.  The inductees were chosen from a list of 25 nominees.

The induction process is very extensive.  The main criteria for nomination are NASCAR accomplishments and contributions to the sport. To be eligible, former drivers must have competed 10 years in NASCAR and be retired from racing for a minimum of 3 years.  Non-drivers must have worked for at least 10 years in the industry.  Once the nominating committee selects the list of candidates, the voting committee casts its votes.  The voting committee consists of the 20 members of the nominating committee, 14 media representatives, 1 representative each from Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford and Toyota, 3 retired drivers, 3 retired owners, 3 retired crew chiefs and 1 fan vote.

Opening day is set for May 11, 2010 and will be celebrated with a day packed full of events including a free concert featuring the country music trio Love and Theft.  The trio is currently preparing to tour with Tim McGraw and Lady Antebellum. To celebrate the final 50 days before the opening, fans are invited to take part in a 50-day countdown on Twitter and watch www.NASCARHall.com for 50 days of news about the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Each morning, a trivia question will be posted on the NASCAR Hall of Fame Twitter page (@NASCARHall).  The first fan who posts the correct response will win a prize pack.  The NASCAR Hall of Fame team will also reveal one feature of the facility each day on their website: www.NASCARHall.com/50days. 

Check it out and get a sneak peek!