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Racing Legends Return to Their Roots
Tim Brown and Burt Myers, two of Bowman Gray Stadium’s most celebrated drivers, are set to make history once again. Their connection to this iconic track runs deep, dating back to childhood memories spent in the pit area while their relatives worked on race cars. What started as youthful play has transformed into legendary racing careers, with both drivers etching their names into the record books.
As they prepare to make their NASCAR Cup Series debut at their home track, the significance of this moment isn’t lost on them. Brown emphasized the significance of the moment, expressing that making a Cup debut at this track makes the experience even more meaningful.
Competing on Familiar Ground
Brown and Myers will bring their home-track advantage to Sunday’s Cook Out Clash (8 p.m. ET, FOX, MRN Radio, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio). As the only two drivers competing in the local Modified Division and the Cup event, they are vying for the final two open spots in the 75-lap Last Chance Qualifier (6 p.m. ET). Their extensive experience at Bowman Gray could be the key to securing a spot on the 23-car starting grid.
Over the years, their on-track rivalry has intensified, with both drivers sharing 23 championships and 198 wins in the Modified Division. Myers acknowledges that such fierce competition naturally breeds moments of tension. “Tim Brown and I have been racing together for almost 30 years. What will happen at least three or four times throughout our careers? We’re battling for wins and championships every Saturday night. That’s what creates rivalries.”
The Call to the Cup Series
It was only fitting that these two Modified standouts received the opportunity to compete in the Cup Series event at Bowman Gray. Brown will pilot the No. 15 Ford for Rick Ware Racing, where he serves as a suspension and drivetrain specialist. Meanwhile, Myers will drive the No. 50 Chevrolet for AmeriVet Racing, marking a potential milestone in his career.
While Brown acknowledges the competitive nature of the sport, he also appreciates the shared experience with his longtime rival. “That’s a tough question to answer because the racer in me says no,” Brown admitted when asked if he hoped for Myers’ success. “But I think it’s good that both of us got this opportunity, and I’m grateful for the chance.”
Experience and Legacy in Racing
At 53 years old, Brown is the oldest driver on the weekend’s entry list, with Myers, 49, being the second oldest. However, age is just a number for these seasoned competitors. Myers remains confident in his abilities, joking, “Don’t make a mistake now; I’m in my prime. That’s what I tell people. I’m like Doc Holliday, I’m in my prime.”
Their dominance at Bowman Gray is undeniable. In the past 17 seasons, they have collectively claimed 15 Modified titles, and their passion for the sport remains unwavering.
Bowman Gray’s Transformation and Future
The Bowman Gray Stadium, which welcomes the Cup Series this weekend, has undergone significant upgrades. New SAFER barriers line the track, and Musco lighting enhances visibility, signaling a new era for the historic venue. While some may miss the nostalgia of the original layout, these improvements testify to the track’s longevity.
Myers embraces the changes, acknowledging the balance between history and progress. “The old-school Burt Myers loved the nostalgia of the old track, but what they’ve done speaks to the future of Bowman Gray. They’re not making these upgrades just for one event but ensuring that this place thrives for another 100 years.”
Brown agrees, emphasizing the importance of aesthetics and sponsorship appeal. “It’s beautiful, and that’s important for the fans and sponsors. The track retains its character, passion, and history, but now it looks even better.”
A Community’s Pride and a Career Milestone
Sunday night’s crowd will be filled with local fans cheering for their hometown heroes. For Brown and Myers, this event is more than just another race—it culminates decades of dedication. “It means everything to me, not just to me but to my family, partners, and sponsors who have supported me through this journey,” Brown expressed. “Just getting this opportunity at this level is outstanding.”
While the setting has evolved, the passion remains unchanged. Racing has always been central to their lives, dictating schedules, milestones, and memories. Myers sums it up perfectly: “Our lives are planned around racing—vacations, birthdays, everything. Bowman Gray is special to NASCAR and us because it’s all we know.”
As these two seasoned competitors prepare to take on the Cup Series field, one thing is sure—the Bowman Gray Clash will be a race to remember.
