After having its 33-race sellout streak snapped last September at Richmond International Raceway because of Tropical Storm Hanna, tonight’s Crown Royal Presents Russ Friedman
400 isn’t expected to sell out, either. But racetrack officials knew a sellout would be an ambitious goal considering the economic downturn. “Although we did experience soft ticket sales earlier this year – due mainly to the economic conditions – we have seen a tremendous increase in purchases over the past several weeks,” RIR President Doug Fritz said. “We expect an enormous crowd of faithful fans and we will again host the largest spectator sporting event in Virginia.” Fritz said tickets are still available for tonight’s race. But he declined to estimate how many tickets might be sold for the Sprint Cup race. Dale Earnhardt Jr., who has three victories at RIR, said it’s unfortunate that the race isn’t likely to sell out. But he added that most drivers and owners aren’t panicking over dwindling attendance at most NASCAR venues. “I wouldn’t know where to begin to help [with ticket sales],” Earnhardt said. “There will be a lot of people here this weekend. There’ll be enough to make me happy. “I don’t think you have to have a sellout to call it success. It’s just so many expectations, and it’s unrealistic. It’s a tough economy, and people are trying to save what they can save.
Moving to the front of the pack is not easy and does not always win friends and have a positive influence on people. David Reutimann seems to be a mild-mannered guy who is finally finding success on the Sprint Cup circuit.