Annual Charity Race Moves to RIR - Busch Joins Lineup of All-Star Drivers

Denny Hamlin - Texas April 2011 - Debbie Ross for Skirts and Scuffs

Richmond International Raceway tweeted on March 21 that they would be holding the first ever live announcement on their Facebook page the next afternoon with Joe Gibbs Racing and hometown driver, Denny Hamlin.

The morning of the announcement, the Richmond Times Dispatch scooped the announcement, reporting that Hamlin's annual Short Track Showdown (a charity event to raise money for the fight against cystic fibrosis) would be held at RIR. However, 250+ loyal fans showed up on RIR's Facebook page to hear it from the man himself.

Hamlin confirmed the move to RIR as the Southside Speedway decided to cancel all events for the 2011 season. While the reasons for the move are unfortunate, RIR is extremely pleased to host the charity event for its hometown driver.

Hamlin told fans to expect drivers such as Joey Logano and Tony Stewart, as well as his Sprint Cup spotter Curtis Markham to race in the charity event. Drivers Kasey Kahne, Trevor Bayne, Michael Waltrip, and Hermie Sadler were name dropped as confirmed participants. On April 11, Kyle Busch confirmed his participation in the race, as well. Lesser known drivers from smaller series will be racing against the top-tier NASCAR drivers. Rest assured there will be no lack of competition. Busch intends to win the event for the third time, while Hamlin is determined to finally win his own race.

Fans can expect to see two races for the price of $25 on Thursday, April 28, as there will be a K&N Series race at the track before Hamlin's charity race. Tickets can be purchased here. If fans cannot attend but still want to help, donations can be made here.

Traditionally the race has not been televised, but in the interview RIR President Doug Fritz alluded the possibility of a public broadcast. Days later, Hamlin announced the race will be televised on SPEED. Still, this is a race best watched from the grandstands.