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Bandit Flight Team to Take Part in STP 500 Pre-Race Ceremonies

Race fans will be in for a show before the green flag is dropped for the STP 500, as Martinsville Speedway is pleased to announce the Bandit Flight Team will conduct a six-plane flyover prior to the race on March 29.

The Bandit Flight Team is a group of pilots committed to preserving and honoring the history and tradition of the US military’s aviation units.

“The Martinsville Speedway experience extends beyond just the racing action. When fans come here they know that they are going to be treated to a first-class day from the time they arrive until the time they leave,” said Martinsville Speedway President Clay Campbell. “By adding the Bandit Flight Team to our pre-race ceremonies we are only enhancing that experience.”

The Bandit Flight Team is based out of Raleigh, N.C. and has performed at other NASCAR races, N.C. State football games, and the Raleigh Christmas Parade. They are led by Jim Kilpatrick, a former US Air Force pilot and Vietnam veteran.

“The team is very excited about the flyover at Martinsville Speedway,” Kilpatrick said.  “We are NASCAR fans and because Martinsville is close to our home base several pilots have attended the STP 500 as fans in the past.”

Advance ticket prices for the STP 500 begin at just $45.

Tickets for the STP 500 weekend, including the Virginia Lottery Pole Day on March 27, the Kroger 250 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race on March 28 and the STP 500 on March 29 are on sale. Fans can visit www.martinsvillespeedway.com and use the interactive ticket map to pick out and purchase their tickets or call 877.RACE.TIX.