On its second trip to the Memorial Coliseum for the Busch Light Clash, NASCAR has planned something very special. In a tribute to the Memorial Coliseum and the two Olympic Games.
Normally, NASCAR only recognizes the winner and presents a single trophy; but for this year’s Clash, the top three finishes will be honoured with medals like those presented to Olympic athletes.
The ceremony will take place in Victory Lane with the Olympic Cauldron above. The cauldron was last lit for the Olympic Games in 1984 when part of the events were held at the Memorial Coliseum. NASCAR senior vice president for racing development and strategy Ben Kennedy will present the gold, silver, and bronze medals himself.
Speaking on the event, Kennedy said, “these will be tremendous prizes for our drivers who are competing inside a venue that’s hosted two Olympic Games and is preparing for a third. Not only do the medals honor the rich tradition of this stadium, but they also provide a special element unique to NASCAR’s 75th anniversary.”
The medals are being created by Jostens which will feature the Busch Light Clash logo on one side and the NASCAR 75th anniversary and the Memorial Coliseum centennial anniversary on the other. The medal will weigh 4.7 ounces.
Also new for this year’s Clash is an expanded field to 27 cars. Cypress Hill and Wiz Khalifa will provide the musical entertainment for pre-race and mid-race events.
The drivers will get the their look at the track on Saturday February 4 when they get their first chance at practice and making a qualifying run. The main event will take place with heat races and the 150 lap main event on February 5.
Tickets for The Clash begin at $65 with tickets for children 12 and under beginning at $10. There is a special ticket price for college students at $40. VIP packages are also available.
ture photo credit: @NASCARonFOX · TV show Facebook page