Race Fans Set Up Camp Ahead of Coca-Cola 600

CONCORD, N.C. — Just across from the Charlotte Motor Speedway, you can feel the excitement building as masses begin a week long camp out all for the Coca-Cola 600.

Anissa Winn’s is one of those many fans and has been camping out at the event for 12 years now. This year Winn’s RV is in a new spot that she’s transformed into her own winner’s circle. Her corner spot is covered in fanfare, flags, and decorations. She’s already sharing beverages and smiling at every stranger that passes.

“You come for the race. Yes, but you come for the camaraderie of all your friends hanging out, sitting by the bonfire together,” Winn said.

Speedway officials say the race attracts fans from all over the world, and so far they’ve sold more than 2500 camp sites. Speedway Communications Director, Jonathan Coleman, believes so many arrive in advance because nothing compares to the Coca-Cola 600.

“Going to be the ultimate test of man and machine, so that it’s still, to this day, is the only 600 mile race on the circuit,” Coleman said.

The competition is expected to be fierce. Coleman reminds that it’s all for the vets with plenty of events planned to honor those who served, including flyovers, military demonstrations, and honoring Gold Star Families.

Former President Donald Trump is planning to attend this weekend’s Coca-Cola 600, a Speedway source confirmed with WCCB News. Trump is in the middle of a trial in New York and is also campaigning for the 2024 election.

Some fans already around the Charlotte Motor Speedway say Trump’s visit makes the race even more exciting.

“He is the epitome of American and NASCAR is the epitome of being an American. And I think it’s a, you know, great opportunity,” Winn said.

The Coca-Cola 600 is set to start Sunday at 6 P.M.