ROCKINGHAM, N.C. — Christian Wilson Photos — The STOCK CAR CLASSICS group was thrilled to be part of the Rockingham Speedway’s Rocktoberfest celebration over the weekend, getting laps on both the larger NASCAR track and the “Little Rock” oval out back.
A diverse field of 14 cars turned out for the event, and the crowd both days enjoyed the on-track action and the opportunity to see the cars up close and meet the men who have put so many hours and even more care and passion into bringing these former NASCAR machines back to life.
The group’s founder Brinkley Whiteside had two machines in the garage area for the event, and he was elated with the way the weekend went.
“I was pleased with our Rockingham turnout this weekend,” Whiteside said.
“15 cars registered for the event but we lost one to towing mechanical issues, unfortunately, so 14 beautiful and well-prepared stock cars took to the high banks of Rockingham in the morning and we performed our simulated race after lunch. We’re getting better at swapping positions on track without someone wanting to prove he’s the fastest.”
Later in the afternoon, the group took full advantage of open track time on “Little Rock”, Rockingham’s Martinsville clone, located behind the big track.
“That’s the first time I’ve run that track and it’s fun and demanding,” Whiteside smiled, before continuing.
“After a couple sessions on the paper clip I think everyone appreciated how tough Cup Drivers are when running 500 laps. Our guys were beat and done for the day!”
On Sunday, a repeat of Saturday’s schedule gave the teams and fans even more time to enjoy themselves and reflect back to when these cars were flying around the big track with some of the best in the NASCAR business behind the wheel.
“Thanks to Bill Miner for traveling from Upstate New York and Chris Brown and Steve Vance for traveling from central Florida to run with us,” Whiteside added. “As always, a giant thank you to our regular crowd and Laura Davis for pulling the event together, along with Christian Wilson for handling our group and on-track photos for the day. From the Driver’s Seat it looks like the club is getting comfortable with our concept and many new cars expected in 2024. We’re excited to display at Martinsville Speedway during this upcoming NASCAR playoff weekend, and then we’ll finish up the 2023 season with a charity day at Darlington Raceway.”
