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[/media-credit]Richmond, VA (April 24, 2012)—One of the most storied tracks in NASCAR is teaming up with one of the most well-known tourism brands in the country this weekend for the Saturday, April 28, Capital City 400 Presented by Virginia is for Lovers NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race.
Richmond International Raceway, celebrating 60 Years of NASCAR this season, has hosted Sprint Cup races since 1953 – third longest among tracks on the circuit. The Capital City 400 name pays homage to the track’s days of yore, when RIR hosted NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races that included the “Capital City” name annually from 1962 to 1980.
Virginia is for Lovers is the longest-running state tourism slogan in the country and stands for love, pure and simple. The Virginia Tourism Corporation promotes Virginia to potential travelers from throughout the world who are looking to completely connect with loved ones on a great Virginia vacation.
Virginia is the only state in the nation to host four NASCAR Sprint Cup races annually, representing a $600 million economic impact for the Commonwealth.
“Tourism is an instant revenue generator that creates jobs and tax revenue for Virginia,” said Governor Bob McDonnell. “Virginia hosts four NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races each year that draw thousands of fans to tracks throughout the state.”
“The Commonwealth of Virginia is delighted to be the presenting sponsor of the Capital City 400. NASCAR is not just great fun, but it is also big business having a huge economic impact on the metro Richmond area each year,” said Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling. “We love to have folks visit Richmond for our annual NASCAR races and take advantage of the many other tourism opportunities our state has to offer.”
“This partnership between Richmond International Raceway and the Virginia Tourism Corporation is an extension of the decades-old relationship we have both enjoyed,” said RIR President Dennis Bickmeier. “Virginia tourism means a lot to us at RIR and we do everything we can to promote this beautiful state. NASCAR fans know that when they come to Virginia for a race, they are coming to an amazing destination rich in history, entertainment and excitement for the whole family.”
The Capital City 400 Presented by Virginia is for Lovers NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race is the culmination to this weekend’s race weekend at Richmond International Raceway. The Saturday, April 28, event features Virginia’s Denny Hamlin and Jeff Burton, defending series champion Tony Stewart, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Jimmie Johnson, Jeff Gordon and all your favorite drivers. Tickets can be purchased online by clicking here or calling 866-455-7223.
Fans won’t want to miss the Friday, April 27, Virginia 529 College Savings 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series race, starring Virginia native Elliott Sadler, worldwide star Travis Pastrana, Danica Patrick, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and many more. Children 12 and younger are admitted free on Friday with a ticketed adult in general admission sections. Advance tickets start at $30 and can be purchased by clicking here or calling 866-455-7223.
The weekend begins Thursday, April 26, with a doubleheader, which includes the Denny Hamlin Short Track Showdown presented by FedEx NASCAR Whelen All-American Series Late Model division race and the Blue Ox 100 NASCAR K&N Pro Series East race. All tickets are $25 and children 12 and younger are admitted free with a ticketed adult. Click here or call 866-455-7223 for tickets.
Tourism is an instant revenue generator for Virginia. In 2010 tourism generated $19 billion in revenue, supported more than 204,000 jobs and provided $1.3 billion in state and local taxes for Virginia’s communities.
Love is at the heart of every Virginia vacation. Visit www.Virginia.org to start planning a trip or call 1-800-VISITVA to request a free, Virginia is for Lovers travel guide. Connect with Virginia on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/Virginiaisforlovers or on Twitter @VisitVirginia.
