Several weeks ago, when it was announced that our Dixie Vodka 400 NASCAR race weekend was rescheduled for June 13-14, I made the statement that being the first pro sport to return to South Florida during this pandemic was something special. It ties in to our 25th anniversary in the fact that in 1995 when we opened our doors, we were a sign of hope three years after a catastrophic force of nature – Hurricane Andrew.
Now, we are thrust into a similar situation in the fact that we have a unique chance to play a key part of the gradual return to normalcy in South Florida. Earlier today, this footprint expanded as NASCAR unveiled its plan to welcome guests back to the track for its events.
When we host the NASCAR Cup Series Dixie Vodka 400 on Sunday, June 14 – capping four races over a span of two days – it will mark the first pro sporting event to be held with guests since the start of the pandemic. Up to 1,000 South Florida service members, representing the Homestead Air Reserve Base as well as the U.S. Southern Command in Doral, will be on hand to view the race from the grandstands.
Now that a second milestone has been added, this is another important step in the return of live sporting events across the globe.
It was our hope to accommodate all of our fans for this very special weekend commemorating our 25th anniversary. And although you won’t be able to join us, the support you have provided our track and NASCAR has not gone unnoticed. You are the ones who have made us what we are, and you are the ones for whom the drivers race.
We banded together as a community more than 25 years ago, leading to a steady recovery. Today we relish the opportunity to play an integral role once again in the midst of our current predicament.
We thank you for being a loyal fan, and look forward to seeing you back at Homestead-Miami Speedway in 2021.
Sincerely,
Al Garcia
Homestead-Miami Speedway President