Pocono Raceway and Governor Josh Shapiro have announced the names of this summer’s NASCAR Cup Series races.
The 160-lap race on Sunday, July 14 will be the Great American Getaway 400, presented by VISITPA in partnership with Pennsylvania’s new tourism brand.
“NASCAR Cup Series races are one of the biggest and best sporting events in the world, and nowhere does it better than Pennsylvania,” Shapiro said in a press release. “Every year I love coming to the ‘Tricky Triangle’ to watch the world’s best drivers and crews race around three corners. Right here in our state, we have it all: top-class sports and events, award-winning restaurants, fantastic hiking trails and state parks, and some of the nation’s most significant historical sites that tell the story of our shared history. This year, Pennsylvania tourism will take the lead at Pocono Raceway.”
Governor Shapiro and other officials launched the state’s new tourism brand, “Pennsylvania: The Great American Getaway,” at PNC Field in Moosic this month before the Governor and his family toured the state in an RV, including stops at Burley Creek Brewing Company, Lake Wallenpaupack, Camelback Resort and Squamish Paintball in the Poconos.
Interestingly, Pocono Raceway was named NASCAR’s top track in the USA TODAY 10 Best awards.
“Having the opportunity to highlight Pennsylvania tourism while helping Governor Shapiro, Secretary Segar and the entire DCED team launch the new brand is a once in a lifetime opportunity for our team,” Pocono Raceway President Ben May said in the release. “With 60% of our fans and partners visiting Pennsylvania from out of state, showcasing the Pocono Mountains and launching ‘The Great American Getaway’ is a privilege not often afforded. We can’t wait to continue showcasing what our state has to offer and promoting tourism in our great state.”
Shapiro, who previously served as Pennsylvania’s attorney general, has partnered with Pocono Raceway for many years to organize an annual drug takeover during race weekend.
Katherine Rubright is editor-in-chief of the Pocono Record and the Tri-County Independent. She can be reached at krubright@gannett.com.