Race fans in Atlanta are ready for the green flag to fly in the Feb. 25 Ambetter Health 400 after an exciting race month kickoff event at the World of Coca-Cola.
Coca-Cola Racing Family driver and Dawsonville native Chase Elliott joined the fun as fans enjoyed a close-up look at a Coca-Cola Racing show car as well as the Ambetter Health 400 pace car and race winner’s trophy, took a virtual spin around Atlanta Motor Speedway in racing simulators, and participated in a Q&A session with NASCAR’s most popular driver.
With just 18 days until the NASCAR Cup Series hits the track in Atlanta for the Ambetter Health 400, Elliott told the crowd he’s looking forward to chasing his second career victory at his home track.
“It means a lot to be from here. I live here, and I love the area,” said Elliott, driver of the No. 9 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for Hendrick Motorsports. “So it’s just a really big deal to win [at AMS].”
The hometown hero also enjoyed a VIP tour of the World of Coca-Cola. Seeing the exhibits for the first time, Elliott said learning about the origins of the iconic beverage was a great experience.
“I’d never been here before, so it’s really cool,” said Elliott. “Obviously, I’m still kind of a new member of the Coca-Cola Racing Family as of last year, so it’s really neat to come and experience something that’s been a part of my family for a long time. My dad was a member of the racing family when I was a kid… so this was a pretty easy transition for me. To come and learn more about the history of the company was really cool.”
After today’s fun, Elliott’s focus now shifts to the competition ahead, first with the season-opening Daytona 500 and then back in Atlanta for the Ambetter Health 400 to begin his pursuit of a second NASCAR Cup Series championship in 2024.
“If you’re consistently putting yourself in contention, those opportunities (to win) are going to be there, and that’s where my head’s at this year,” said Elliott. “That’s where my head’s at this year; just trying to get in that mix and be amongst that group of guys that have opportunities to win every week. That’s my main goal.”