Sports
Thrilling Races Await at Bristol Motor Speedway This Weekend

Bristol, Tenn. — The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series kicks off a weekend of high-stakes racing at Bristol Motor Speedway on Friday, April 11, at 7:30 p.m. ET, as the WEATHER GUARD Truck Race captivates fans under the lights. This marks the first appearance of NASCAR’s top circuits at the iconic short track this season, heightening the anticipation among drivers and enthusiasts alike.
Some of the biggest names in NASCAR, including Kyle Larson and Brandon Jones, will take to the track, aiming to secure victory in what promises to be an exhilarating race. Larson, piloting the No. 07 Chevrolet Silverado for Spire Motorsports, hopes to replicate the success of Kyle Busch, who is the only driver to have claimed all three NASCAR races in a single weekend, having achieved this feat at Bristol in 2010 and 2017.
“Typically in a truck race, the groove is right around the bottom, and it’s very difficult to pass,” said Larson. “If your truck’s not handling perfectly, you’re going to have a tough chance to win with how short the race is. But it’ll be a fun challenge, and I’m excited about that.”
Brandon Jones, who is coming off a victory in the Xfinity Series race at Darlington, will aim to keep the momentum going as he takes the wheel of the No. 1 TRICON Toyota. “It’s nice to win again for my confidence,” stated Jones. “Bristol is next, and I’m really feeling this moment.”
Amid these powerhouse drivers, NASCAR Truck Series regulars are eager to secure a win as well, with the allure of a $50,000 Triple Truck Challenge Bonus at stake for any series regular who claims victory. Daniel Hemric, who recently won at Martinsville, is one of the regulars looking to capitalize on this opportunity.
The race features a competitive field that includes notable drivers like Corey Heim, who has been a front-runner this season with two wins. “I plan to keep my momentum going into Bristol,” Heim asserted. His Bristol statistics are impressive, including a 4.8 average finish after four starts.
Expect to also see other contenders like Ty Majeski, Layne Riggs, and Chandler Smith, as they, too, have the potential to upset the favorites. The drivers enter a crowded, intense environment where track position and strategic pit stops becomes critical to success.
In addition to the on-track action, fans attending the race can enjoy numerous activities, ranging from tailgating to entertainment at the Food City Fan Zone Stage. “This weekend is a total experience for NASCAR fans,” the track representatives conveyed.
As the excitement builds for Friday’s race, spectators can anticipate a showcase of talent and determination on the high-banked turns of Bristol. The weekend culminates on Sunday with the running of the historic Food City 500 Cup Series race at 3 p.m. ET.