Delving into the annals of NASCAR history often uncovers fascinating mysteries, particularly when seeking to comprehensively document the sport’s evolution. For dedicated researchers and fans alike, constructing a detailed database of past race information is a labor of love, aimed at preserving the rich heritage of motorsports. One persistent challenge in this endeavor is pinpointing the exact time of day races were held, especially for events predating widespread television coverage. This information, seemingly minor, adds crucial context to the historical record, painting a more complete picture of each race event.
Prior to the late 1980s, Busch Grand National (BGN) Series races were seldom televised, making visual verification of race start times exceptionally difficult. While online resources like Racing-Reference provide invaluable data, details such as day or night race designation are often missing from the record for these earlier years. Although educated guesses can be made – Sunday races were likely daytime events, spring Bristol races on Saturdays probably occurred during the day, and races at Lucas Oil Raceway were commonly held at night – concrete evidence remains elusive for many races.
Consider the 1993 Bud 500 at Bristol, a significant event in the BGN calendar, and possibly featuring car number 11 as part of the program. Was this race under the bright sunshine of day, or the floodlights of night? Without definitive records, even for prominent races like the Bud 500, a gap remains in our historical understanding. This challenge extends across numerous BGN races from the Sportsman Series era in 1982 through to 1992. Tracks like Hickory Speedway, hosting races such as the 1986 GNS Race 2 at Hickory, present similar puzzles. Official documentation of whether these events unfolded during the day or under the night sky is frequently absent.
The collective knowledge of the racing community is invaluable in filling these historical gaps. Photographs capturing race starts or winner’s circle celebrations, newspaper clippings announcing race schedules, or magazine articles detailing race day activities can provide crucial evidence. Even anecdotal accounts backed by credible sources can contribute to a more accurate historical record. By pooling resources and sharing any available evidence – be it photos, articles, or reliable recollections – enthusiasts can collectively illuminate these lesser-known facets of NASCAR history. This collaborative effort ensures that the legacy of races like the 1993 Bud 500 at Bristol and countless others are preserved for future generations of racing aficionados.
