Bowman Gray Stadium stands as a testament to both the resilience of a community and the thrill of motorsports. Constructed in 1937 as a public works project during the Great Depression, this iconic venue has evolved from its humble beginnings as a collegiate football field to become a mecca for racing enthusiasts. Its storied history is etched with milestones and legends, marking its significance not only as a sporting arena but also as a cultural landmark.

From its inaugural football game between Wake Forest College and Duke University in 1938 to the introduction of trotter horse racing on its 0.250-mile dirt oval, Bowman Gray Stadium quickly became a hub of sporting activity. However, it was the advent of auto racing, that laid the foundation for its enduring legacy in motorsports. With the track's paving in 1947, orchestrated by a promoter who fled before fulfilling promises to the city, stock car racing found a permanent home, thanks to Bill France Sr. and Alvin Hawkins, founding fathers of NASCAR.

Since its first NASCAR-sanctioned event in 1949, Bowman Gray Stadium has hosted a multitude of racing series, including the NASCAR Cup Series, Xfinity Series, and various modified divisions. The tight confines of the quarter-mile bull ring have earned it the nickname "Madhouse," a moniker attributed to both the intense racing action and the chaotic atmosphere reminiscent of its qualifying format from the 1950s. Over the years, legends of the sport, such as Richard Petty and Junior Johnson, have graced its hallowed grounds, leaving an indelible mark on racing history.

Beyond its racing pedigree, Bowman Gray Stadium has also played a significant role in the local community. From hosting Wake Forest University football games to serving as the home field for high school teams like R.J. Reynolds High and Parkland High, the stadium has been a focal point of athletic achievement and camaraderie. Today, a new generation of legends races at Bowman Gray. 

Location:
1250 S Martin Luther King Jr Dr.
Winston-Salem, NC 27107