In a surprising turn of events, officials at the North Wilkesboro Speedway in North Carolina have announced the discovery of a potential secret moonshine hold beneath one of the grandstands. The revelation was made after a sinkhole appeared, revealing an area of approximately 700 square feet underneath the old concrete of section N during a routine cleaning operation.

Rumors of an underground moonshine operation at the historic racetrack have circulated for years, given the track's deep connections to the Prohibition Era and the region's moonshine history. Steve Swift, Speedway Motorsports Vice President of Operations and Development, stated that while no still has been found yet, a small cave and an interior wall were discovered, indicating the perfect location for the production and hiding of illegal liquor. However, the means of access remains a mystery.

To facilitate further investigations, around 600 seats were removed by the staff, who are now evaluating the necessary repairs. These repairs need to be completed before the highly anticipated NASCAR All-Star Race scheduled to take place from May 14-19. Swift emphasized the extensive amount of work required before fans can comfortably witness the race from the grandstands.

Wilkes County, known to be the former capital of the moonshine industry in North Carolina, played a crucial role in the formation of NASCAR. The county's backroads were frequented by skilled drivers who transported the illicit liquor under the cover of darkness. The competitive nature of these drivers eventually led to the birth of NASCAR.

North Wilkesboro Speedway, one of the original NASCAR tracks, first opened its doors in 1947. Sadly, it closed in 1996, only to be revitalized and reopened in 2023 for the NASCAR All-Star Race. The recent discovery has further heightened the track's historical significance and captured the intrigue of racing enthusiasts and historians alike.

As officials continue to explore the hidden depths of the North Wilkesboro Speedway, the potential uncovering of a moonshine hideout adds yet another chapter to NASCAR's captivating history. Only time will tell what other secrets lie beneath the grandstands and what further insights into the sport's past may be revealed.