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Racing is incredibly popular across the United States, with some forms of the sport including horses and cars. North Carolina has a rich history when it comes to significant racetracks, with some even having pivotal roles in the history of sport.
Therefore, racetracks located in the region are exceptionally popular for international visitors, as there are few better locations to learn more about the history of the region, and the sport overall.
But, what are some of the best racetracks that must be visited next time that you’re in North Carolina?
Pinehurst Race Track
One of the most historic locations for racing in the North Carolina region can be found at Pinehurst. Located in the national historic district in Moore County, the location encompasses ten building and structured complexes of barns and stables.
It has been a significant location for racing in the area with the site hosting the oldest surviving 20th century fair exhibition hall in North Carolina. The oval racing tracks have been in operation since 1915, with the exhibition hall erected two years later.
As one of the most iconic locations for racing in the region, it is little surprise that it has been part of the National Register of Historic Places since 1992. The annual Spring Matinee Races is the most popular meet to attend, with the iconic day being staged annually on the first Saturday in April.
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Occoneechee Speedway
As well as hosting iconic horse racing action, North Carolina also has deep roots in motorsport. A lot of history in the state revolves around Occoneechee Speedway. The track was one of the first two used in NASCAR, and remains a popular location to visit despite closing in 1968.
The site was named after the Occoneechee Indians that lives in the area between the 17th and 18th century. During its early history, the track also hosted regular horse racing action on a half mile course.
However, its history changed after being noticed by Bill France, who thought that the track would be a perfect location for racing cars. Occoneechee also enjoyed history being made in 1949, as NASCAR’s first ever female driver competed at the circuit. But, the need for a more faster track saw France move the racing operation to Talladega Superspeedway.
But, the dirt track’s historical importance was later the framework as the inspiration in Cars 3, with Thomasville Speedway focused on Occoneechee. Grand stands are still visible to this day, and it was named on the National Register of Historic Places in the late 90s.
North Wilkesboro Speedway
Another significant location for motorsport action in North Carolina can be found at North Wilkesboro Speedway. This oval short track has hosted major races since opening its doors to the public in 1947, with NASCAR operating races at the track throughout history.
It has been owned by Speedway Motorsports since 2007, and it has an official capacity of 25,000. It remains one of the vintage aesthetic courses on the motorsports calendar.
However, its history has been mixed, with locals frustrated in the 1990s after strained relations between Speedway Motorsports and Bruton Smith. However, years in the abyss, Marcus Smith led a successful campaign to reinvigorate the track at NWS, with many NASCAR drivers also putting their popularity behind the movement.
Major racing returned to the track in 2023 when it was picked to host the NASCAR All-Star Race. But its historical relevance remains a focal point, with reports emerging last year that there was possible damage under the main grandstand due to the track housing a moonshine cave that was in operation during the 1940s.
Carolina Horse Park
One of the most famous venues to watch horses in action can be found at Carolina Horse Park. This location was founded in the Hoke County in 1998, and it is a not-for-profit organization that is used to preserve space for equestrian and recreational purposed.
Overall, the location hosts 30 weeks of events annually, including the Lunch with the Coyotes and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Equestrian events are incredibly popular at Carolina Horse Pack, with various disciplines taking center stage throughout the year.
Among those include The War Horse Event, which draws over 2000 competitors annually during its six-month span. The Park Hunter Jumper Series has quickly become a favorite among locals since being added to the calendar in 2021. There are also events for Combined Driving and shows focused on dressage. It is a very popular location for families in the summer period, with all visitors able to get up close and personal with the equine stars of the show.
The work that Carolina Horse Park does in the location region is also worth special attention, as the provide an exceptional stabling facility for local horses, and enhance the understanding via education to all those that pass through the gates.