Atlanta’s NASCAR HOF Plan Includes Interactive Components

Atlanta HOF Bid Unveils Plans For Interactive Components

Atlanta’s NASCAR HOF bid team released new details of planned interior exhibits — which organizers said will reflect “strong family values that are part of NASCAR’s tradition,” according to Walter Woods of the ATLANTA CONSTITUTION. The “My NASCAR” exhibit would allow participants to “be their own race team by using an electronic simulator and competing” against others in a virtual race. “Speed & Spirit,” designed by the Smithsonian and the Atlanta History Center, “would highlight the role of women” in racing history. The HOF would also feature “Thunder Theater,” with “vibrating metal grandstand seats, actual race cars and spectator RVs to give visitors the feel of the infield.” Other concepts include a traditional “Hall of Honor,” as well as “NASCAR TV,” a functional TV studio that could stage NASCAR-related programming and “let fans behind the scenes” (ATLANTA CONSTITUTION, 9/10). Central Atlanta Progress President A.J. Robinson, who is involved in the bid process, said that the exhibits “will cost about a third of the $100[M] budget” for the building. Robinson added of the “My NASCAR” game, “We may be able to build an industry around this simulated racing. ... Like the way people go to huge poker competitions, we could have tournaments and make it a pro-video racing contest” (ATLANTA BUSINESS CHRONICLE, 9/12 issue).