The NASCAR Cup Series is set to make a historic return to its roots, roaring back to Bowman Gray Stadium for the 2025 Cook Out Clash after a 54-year hiatus. This legendary short track, nestled in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, holds the distinction of being NASCAR’s oldest weekly short track, having hosted its inaugural NASCAR event in 1949. Its intimate setting, with a seating capacity of 17,000 expandable to 20,000, promises a thrilling, close-quarters racing experience reminiscent of the sport’s early days. The Clash at Bowman Gray isn’t just a return to a historic venue; it’s a celebration of short-track racing and the passionate fans who embrace its raw energy.
Adding to the anticipation of the event is the Cup Series debut of short-track racing legend Burt Myers. A dominant force at Bowman Gray, Myers boasts a remarkable career adorned with multiple track championships since 1999. His prowess extends beyond Bowman Gray, with titles secured in the NASCAR Whelen Southern Modified Tour and the SMART Modified Tour. This homecoming race carries a special significance for Myers, continuing a rich family legacy at the track where his great uncle, Bobby Myers, and grandfather, Billy Myers, both achieved championship glory. Myers will pilot the No. 50 Citrusafe Chevrolet for Team AmeriVet, bringing his vast short-track experience to the highest level of stock car racing.
The convergence of Myers’s debut and the return to Bowman Gray creates a compelling narrative, adding another layer of excitement to the 2025 Cook Out Clash. Myers isn’t simply stepping into the Cup Series; he’s doing so at his home track, a place where he’s etched his name into racing lore. This adds a personal dimension to the historical significance of the event, transforming it into a landmark moment for both Myers and the sport. He’ll be partnered with veteran crew chief Tony Eury Jr., further strengthening the team’s potential for success. Their combined experience and shared history of winning races together in modified racing creates a formidable pairing, poised to make a significant impact in the Clash.
The significance of the event extends beyond the on-track competition. Team AmeriVet, the team fielding Myers’s entry, is leveraging the platform to further its mission of supporting veterans through its “50 Vets a Week” program. The Clash provides a high-profile opportunity to raise awareness and funds for this important initiative. Building on the success of last season’s fundraising efforts in Phoenix, where the team relieved $125,000 in veteran debt, they aim to surpass that amount at Bowman Gray. This commitment to giving back adds a further layer of meaning to the event, highlighting the positive impact that motorsports can have beyond the race track.
The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season kicks off on February 2nd under the lights at Bowman Gray Stadium, with the Clash setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting year of racing. This highly anticipated event marks the only non-points race on the schedule, allowing drivers to compete with a heightened sense of aggression and excitement, free from the pressures of championship implications. The return to Bowman Gray signifies a renewed focus on the sport’s roots and the importance of short-track racing in its DNA. The compact, high-banked oval is sure to deliver thrilling, door-to-door action, providing fans with an unforgettable spectacle.
Following the Clash, the season transitions into points-paying races, beginning with the iconic Daytona 500 on February 16th. The schedule then unfolds across a diverse range of tracks, including superspeedways, intermediate ovals, short tracks, road courses, and even a street circuit in Chicago. This variety ensures a demanding test of driver skill and adaptability, promising a captivating championship battle throughout the year. The Playoffs commence on August 31st, culminating in the championship race at Phoenix Raceway on November 2nd. The 2025 season promises a compelling blend of tradition and innovation, with the return to Bowman Gray serving as a powerful reminder of NASCAR’s rich history.
