Live Report: Tim Brown to Make NASCAR Cup Series Debut at Bowman Gray Stadium
In an incredible turn of events, the legendary Tim Brown, a grassroots racing icon, will compete in the NASCAR Cup Series race at Bowman Gray Stadium, often called the “Winston-Salem Madhouse.” Known as the winningest driver in the history of the Stadium, Brown’s career, spanning decades, will finally get its well-deserved recognition on NASCAR’s grandest stage.
A Lifetime of Dedication
At 53 years old, Tim Brown boasts an unmatched legacy at Bowman Gray, with 12 Tour-Type Modified Championships and 101 victories. Beyond the quarter-mile bullring, Brown has dedicated 35 years to building Cup Series cars, working with teams like Roush Fenway, Michael Waltrip Racing, and Rick Ware Racing. His journey started as a high schooler, turning wrenches for Cale Yarborough.
Reflecting on the sacrifices he made, Brown acknowledged the toll it took on his personal life but expressed gratitude for this monumental opportunity. “I teared up when I saw the release,” Brown told Sportsnaut. “I have sacrificed my whole life to racing. I gave up on being a Cup Series driver some 15-20 years ago. But Rick and Lisa Ware and Tommy Baldwin thought enough of me to make this happen, and I’m really grateful.”
The Journey to This Moment
The idea for Brown’s debut came together over the summer, sparked by rumors of NASCAR bringing the Clash to Bowman Gray. When Rick Ware called to propose the idea, Brown was initially hesitant to believe it. “He said, ‘We’re going to put you in a car,’ and I told him, ‘Thank you, that’s exciting,’ but I also said, ‘What are the chances?’” Brown admitted.
Quietly, Ware Racing worked to solidify the deal, and when NASCAR officially announced the event, the dream became reality. “I didn’t even tell my wife or brother because I didn’t want to jinx it,” Brown shared.
A Longstanding Partnership with Ware Racing
Brown’s relationship with Rick Ware Racing (RWR) spans nearly 30 years. He previously raced for RWR in the Truck Series and collaborated with the team in short-track events. “I think that’s why Rick and Lisa wanted to do this for me,” said Brown. “This is a small family team just like our Modified team. It makes it extra rewarding to get to do this together.”
The Perfect Debut Venue
Bowman Gray Stadium’s flat, quarter-mile layout provides the ideal setting for Brown’s Cup debut. “If I were to do this at Kansas or Dover, you’d need sim time, aerodynamics, and engineering,” Brown explained. “Here, aero does not matter. We just need to get the car to turn and drive off the corner.”
Brown’s familiarity with the track and his reputation as one of its cleanest racers give him an edge, but he’s aware of the rough-and-tumble nature of NASCAR’s Clash events. “I’m not that kind of racer,” Brown said. “If it’s the last lap of a heat race and I need a spot to advance, I’ll move someone off the bottom. But I won’t bump someone to win—I want to represent our community with pride.”
An Ambassador for Grassroots Racing
For Brown, this race isn’t just about his Cup debut; it’s about showcasing the passion and talent of grassroots racers. “There’s so much great racing at Bowman Gray Stadium that no one ever talks about, and that’s a shame,” he said. “We’re only racing for hundreds of dollars, but we pour everything into our cars.”
A Legacy Moment
As Brown gears up for the February 1-2 Clash at Bowman Gray, his focus remains on delivering a strong performance. “I just hope to have a good showing and make the show,” he said. “I hope we can win. I don’t race anything without believing I can. And I’m the only guy in the field who can say they built their own car.”
With decades of hard work, a deep connection to his team, and an unparalleled legacy at Bowman Gray, Tim Brown is poised to turn his Cup debut into a celebration of grassroots racing excellence.
