DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – For the 10th consecutive year, the Daytona 500 is sold out, drawing hundreds of thousands to the coast.
The 67th running of the iconic race is set for Sunday, but fans are already starting to show, providing a boost to local businesses.
Hotels across Daytona Beach are fully booked as visitors flock to Florida for a vacation centered around the “Great American Race.”
“Get with your friends, get to the track, get to the beach,” said Lori Brolsma from North Carolina.
Camping in the infield is a cherished tradition for many attendees.
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“Got here a few hours ago and fired it up. We’re having brats and burgers today, we’re going to do a fish fry later and then we’re pulling out the brisket and pulled pork tomorrow,” said Taylor Morgan from Ocala.
More than 100,000 fans will fill the speedway, with even more scattered around Daytona Beach. This year, drivers will compete for the richest purse in motorsports history, totaling $30 million.
After last year’s race was rained out, Speedway President Frank Kelleher is hopeful for better weather.
“Fingers crossed the weather gods are on our side and we have great weather for all of our fans that have traveled from all 50 states and 40-plus countries,” said Kelleher.
The Daytona Beach Area Visitors Bureau said the 500 is the Superbowl of events for economic impact in the Volusia County area.
Hotels are sold out, and restaurants are packed, as the speedway generates about $800 million for the area annually, with the 500 playing a significant role.
“That is a number that we’re very proud of as that touches almost every business in the area and we want to challenge ourselves to grow year over year,” Kelleher added.
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