Story By: AARON CREED / SUPER CUP STOCK CAR SERIES – STATESVILLE, NC – Months of preparation in shops across multiple states will be brought to light when the opening event for 2024 is scheduled to take place this Saturday in Wise County, the Southwestern most section of Virginia known for its coalmining industry.
The Super Cup Stock Car Series returned to Lonesome Pine Motorsports Park in August of last year, the first time visiting the 3/8-mile banked facility since 2017, resuming a tradition that enters this year with the Coalminers Classic.
Some drivers expected for the season kickoff, such as West Virginia’s Larry Berg, will be taking to this particular track for the first time. Others to watch who have previously competed at the facility have a range of past results. Hickory, North Carolina’s Ben Ebeling was unable to attend 2023’s event, but has won twice at Lonesome Pine, including his series debut in 2016.
Track president Jeff Roark will look to get behind the wheel once again after showing speed in his select starts last year while team owner Bill Ashton is one of at least a couple drivers venturing from Pennsylvania to compete following a pair of third place finishes in 2023’s event, his best finishes so far in the town of Coeburn.
Not only could performance set the stage for ensuing weekends, but the twin races will also serve as a tune up for quite a few competitors. The final event of 2024 takes place at Lonesome Pine as well with the Champions Classic in late September.
This Saturday evening’s festivities begin at 5:00 p.m. with general admission for the feature races, including four local divisions, available at the low price of $15. In addition, the Rusty Wallace Racing Experience is on hand during the day, go-kart track on the facility grounds will be open, and “Juice Box” races for the kids are part of the program as entertainment for all ages.
