NASCAR fans mask-up for NH speedway event

LOUDON, N.H. — The stands were mostly empty. But the fact any fans got to watch Sunday's NASCAR race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway seemed a small miracle. 

"Feel like we should all be feeling extremely blessed this is even happening today," said Greg Farmer, a NASCAR fan from Connecticut. "Hoping to have a great time. Hope the rain holds off. Hoping for a spectacular race today."

The 'actual' fan experience marked the first major sporting event in New England since March to allow spectators. The track's agreement with the state allowed the facility to operate at no more than 35% of its capacity.  

"And for us here that would mean around 18,000 to 19,000 people," said track spokesperson Scott Cooper. "Today, in order for us to socially distance everyone as we need to, in the grandstands, we're actually going to be somewhere between 12,000 and 14,000 people."

Seating was assigned for the race, masks had to be worn in public areas – and before anyone could enter, fever checks were done. Anyone registering above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit was referred to a medical area for further evaluation. 

"Ultimately, we are all in this together," Cooper said. "We're trying to put something together that means the coronavirus is not going to stop the world from turning. And people still need opportunities to get out and find some sense of normalcy, and it's our job to work with those fans to find a good creative way to be able to do it safely."

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Alone among major sports organizations, NASCAR has been able to pull off what other leagues only dream of: getting fans back in the seats during a pandemic.

It isn't happening at every race. For example, at races in Michigan and Delaware later this month, spectators will not be allowed. But Cooper said other athletic organizations have been talking with NASCAR about how to similarly get back on track. 

"What it really comes down to is communication, education and cooperation," Cooper said. "We put a lot of protocols in place. We share that just over and over again with the fans, so they're prepared when they get here."

What also helps is the fervent fanbase NASCAR enjoys. 

The Dos Santos family drove up from Westchester, N.Y. for the race.

"I think New Hampshire's government is doing a great job in what they're doing," said Gabriel Dos Santos, who came with his wife and two young sons. "Keeping people social distancing and the masks. And there are hand sanitizer stations all over the place. So I think they're doing a great job. I feel safe."

Tired of watching races on TV, Nancy Poisson drove up from Haverhill, Mass.

"I'm so happy," she said. "I'm excited."

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It is exactly what Cooper likes to hear. 

“This is just our one weekend a year that we really showcase what’s great about NASCAR,” Cooper said. “And to have 12,000-plus race fans, even in these uncertain times, want to come out and enjoy what’s taking place here, to see Jimmy Johnson race for perhaps the last time at New Hampshire Motor Speedway as a full-time driver, there are a tremendous amount of good storylines for the fans to be excited about today, and we’re glad we can bring them a great show.”

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