BRISTOL, Tenn. – Following the thrilling matchup between the [Atlanta Braves](/mlb/team/_/name/atl/atlanta-braves) and the [Cincinnati Reds](/mlb/team/_/name/cin/cincinnati-reds), the iconic Bristol Motor Speedway is facing a rapid transformation.The transition from the MLB Speedway Classic stage to the NASCAR race circuit represents an unprecedented logistical challenge.The first MLB regular season game in Tennessee drew a record crowd of 91,032 spectators. Now, the focus is on the return of racing.
“It’s difficult, but they are things we like. It presents a challenge, and we like challenges.”
Steve Swift, Senior Vice President of Operations at Speedway MotorsportsDespués de transformarse en un campo de béisbol para un juego entre los Braves y los Reds, Bristol Motor Speedway debe volver a su estado normal a tiempo para una carrera de NASCAR el 13 de septiembre. Earl Neikirk/Bristol Motor Speedway via APMLB, with the help of BaAM, built complete locker rooms for the Braves and the Reds, including showers, gyms, coaches’ offices, and batting cages. Stands were erected along both baselines, along with broadcast booths.The infield transformation for the baseball diamond required 17,500 tons of gravel to level the ground and 340 tons of Pennsylvania clay for the playing surface.Swift explained that building the concrete walls takes time, including the proper curing process.
“As soon as the last ball is thrown, the last hit is connected, the teams do their thing, take care of the post-game, they will begin to remove the wall protections and work all night to begin dismantling and be able to reassemble for the NASCAR race”.
Steve Swift
Part of the gravel will be used in Bristol’s parking lots. Swift mentioned that they have found groups that will help reuse some of the materials to help people still recovering from the damage caused by Hurricane Helene. This includes wood and plywood used for the bleachers.
“Many things will be used well in the reconstruction part. We just need to clear the way so we can put asphalt and concrete back.”
Steve Swift
The deadline for completing the renewal is set for September 7th.
“There may still be some paint drying when the Goodyear trucks arrive, but we will definitely aim for (September 7th)”.
Steve Swift
Bristol has already demonstrated its versatility by hosting a college football game in 2016, which attracted 156,990 spectators. Now, the NHL could consider Bristol in the future, after Sportico reported that league officials were evaluating how the circuit handled the MLB event.
“We have shown with soccer and now with baseball that things can happen and we can do things that no one would even think of”.
