NASCAR tracks battling attendance downturn by adding amenities
Posted Aug 3rd 2012 9:13AM
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It was bound to happen: NASCAR couldn't grow forever.
Now, as attendance for Sprint Cup Series races falls, NASCAR track owners around the country continue to add things like faster wireless internet services, newer restrooms and big-name concerts before a race to put more fans in the stands.
NASCAR attendance is down 2.4 per cent from last year and 8.5 per cent from 2009, according to USA Today.
Fans have either abandoned the sport or just opted to watch from the comfort of their own home. Some of the drop has been attributed to the recent economic struggles around the country as well as the rising costs associated with going to a race. Fans have told track owners that everything from the lack of access to drivers to tracks not offering a more family friendly experience has pushed them away.
Owners, in turn, have tried to provide extended pit tours, additional driver appearances and other amenities at the track ranging from better shower houses for campers to shuttles that pick you up at your car and drop you off near your seat.
