North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper toured historic North Wilkesboro Speedway on Tuesday ahead of grassroots racing returning to the iconic short track later this summer. The governor was joined by Speedway Motorsports President and CEO Marcus Smith, NASCAR Hall of Fame team owner Richard Childress, legendary NASCAR driver Harry Gant and a number of state and local officials to tout revitalization efforts at the celebrated facility, which on Wednesday will mark 75 years since its first race.

Following a tour of the facility and three ceremonial pace laps with Childress behind the wheel of a Chevrolet Camaro, Cooper addressed the vital importance of motorsports to the state’s economy.