BY DAN GUTTENPLAN
Annie Allsup didn’t watch her first NASCAR race until the 2018 Daytona 500, when she went home to visit family after her father passed away. Her half-sister invited her over to watch the race, and within six months, she was hooked. That same year, she became a member of the Official NASCAR Members Club. Allsup recently shared her ONMC experience with Out of the Groove!
“I never had friends or anyone close that watched racing, so I honestly did not know anything about it. I watched my first race at the 2018 Daytona 500, and I just randomly picked a car to win since that’s what everyone else was going. I went for the 12 blindly, mainly because it was bright yellow, so I know I would be able to keep track with it. It was a great first race to watch, and Blaney made that race a lot of fun. I was pleasantly surprised to find out he was a cool driver to root for being that he was talented, seemed kind, and listened to good music. So, after that race, I picked him as my driver. That same year I made it to three races. What really kept my interest is how NASCAR is the only sport where you’re so involved with the athletes. They do a great job of including the fans in everything. Also, compared to other sports it’s a steal to attend live races. I’ve met so many awesome people at the races I’ve been to as well.”
“I won a VIP package for Talladega, which was incredible! Unfortunately, my friend had to work last minute, so she couldn’t join me. I was worried at first going and camping alone, but had a blast. I had really cool neighbors, and everyone at the track including the ONMC members were so helpful. I got to attend the drivers meeting, do a ride-along in a pace car, and go to Victory Lane. You’re just so submerged in everything, it’s such a wonderful experience. They really do make you feel like a VIP. Also, the merch is really nice, and affordable.”
“I just want to go to a race again. I would definitely love to do something similar to the VIP experience at other tracks. I love learning the history behind them all, and making awesome memories.”