This Saturday, August 9, NASCAR Cup Series driver Ryan Preece of Berlin, Connecticut, will participate in the Race of Champions Modified Series event known as The Night Before The Glen – Rod Spalding Classic at Chemung Speedrome. Preece will autograph memorabilia and serve as the honorary starter for the 75-lap Modified Series main feature, adding excitement to this popular Southern Tier racing tradition.
The Ryan Preece ROC Chemung event comes as Preece continues to build momentum, recently gaining attention on the Dale Jr. Download podcast hosted by Dale Earnhardt Jr. His presence is expected to attract greater fans and media interest throughout the evening.
Backpack Giveaway to Support Young Fans
Alongside the thrilling racing action, the Kids RoC initiative will hold its second consecutive backpack giveaway at Chemung. Over 70 backpacks packed with school supplies will be distributed to children attending the event, following the success of last weekend’s Fan Appreciation Night at Spencer Speedway. This outreach effort aims to engage and encourage the youngest members of the racing community.
Honoring Rod Spalding’s Legacy
The Night Before The Glen pays tribute to Rod Spalding, a highly respected Modified Series competitor known for his sportsmanship at Shangri-La Speedway. After sustaining career-ending injuries in a crash at Orange County Speedway, Spalding’s impact continues through the Spalding Foundation for Injured Drivers, which supports local racers facing similar challenges. This event honors his contributions to the sport and the region’s racing community.
Full Schedule Packed with Grassroots Racing
The main event will award $5,000 to the winner of the 75-lap Race of Champions Modified Series race. Along with this headline race, the program will include several supporting series, bringing a comprehensive night of racing excitement to Chemung. Fans can enjoy the Race of Champions Late Model Series, the FOAR SCORE Four Cylinder Dash Series as part of the RoC-In Summer Tour, and the Chemung Hobby Stocks, all set to showcase top grassroots talent.
Event Logistics and Viewer Information
The venue, Chemung Speedrome, is located at 605 Wyncoop Creek Road in Chemung, New York, just off Exit 59 on Interstate 86. It sits approximately 12 miles east of Elmira and within driving distance from Binghamton and Watkins Glen. Gates open at 5:00 PM with racing scheduled to start at 6:30 PM. Ticket prices range from $15 for kids ages 10 to 15, $20 for seniors and military members, $25 for adults, and free admission for children nine and under.
For those unable to attend in person, live coverage will be available on RoCModifiedSeries.TV, powered by Racing America. The subscription service provides access to this event along with all 2025 Race of Champions races, over 200 short track races, exclusive NASCAR content, and more.
Continuing a Valued Tradition in Southern Tier Racing
The Ryan Preece ROC Chemung event carries significance beyond the excitement of competition, blending community support, honoring a beloved racer’s legacy, and showcasing the region’s grassroots racing scene. With a high-profile driver involved and a commitment to family-friendly activities, this event sets the stage for continued growth of motorsports enthusiasm in the Southern Tier and beyond. Fans can anticipate thrilling racing action as well as meaningful engagement with the local community.