Thursday, April 9, 2009

O.A.R to headline NASCAR's All-Star race concert

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) -- Rock band O.A.R will headline a free outdoor concert to open activities surrounding NASCAR's annual All-Star race.

"NASCAR Rev'd Up" will take place May 13 in Charlotte, marking the first time promoter Sprint will stage such an elaborate event days before the race. The six-hour event also will feature NASCAR driver appearances and interactive displays.


The NASCAR All-Star Challenge is May 16.

"We are all fans of NASCAR and have had the chance to get to know some of the drivers, so I have a feeling this is going to be a great time," O.A.R lead singer Marc Roberge said.

Last year, O.A.R. performed at NASCAR's season-ending Nationwide Series awards show. In 2006, the group performed at baseball's All-Star Game in Pittsburgh.

Sprint also will host the annual Pit Crew Competition the day at Time Warner Arena on May 14. NASCAR Day is May 15, and qualifying for the All-Star race will be held that evening at Lowe's Motor Speedway.

"Race fans will enjoy four days of entertainment at an incredible value -- something everyone is requesting in this economic climate," said Steve Gaffney, director of Sprint's sports and entertainment marketing.