Tar Heels Performing Anthem at Martinsville Speedway

From presidential inaugurations to Final Fours, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Marching Tar Heels have performed nearly everywhere; everywhere except Martinsville Speedway. That is, until now.

Martinsville Speedway President Clay Campbell announced The Marching Tar Heels will perform the National Anthem as part of the prerace ceremonies for the Goody’s^® Headache Relief Shot^® 500 Oct. 26.

The UNC Band was formed in the fall of 1903 and performed for the first time at a 1904 baseball game. In the early 1930s the band began performing at home football games and other university events.

“Just like Martinsville Speedway, The Marching Tar Heels have a rich tradition and history. They are a perfect fit for our prerace ceremonies,” Campbell said. “To have a band that many of fans are familiar with is even better.”

As they enter their second 100 years of existence, the UNC Bands continue to represent the Department of Music, the Athletic Department and the University at events on campus and around the country.  

“We are looking forward to our trip to Martinsville and the chance to perform at the speedway,” said Director of University Bands Jeffery Fuchs. “This will be a new experience for our students and we are sure the memories will stay with them for many years.”

More than 450 students, representing nearly every major on campus, participate in the UNC Bands.

Advance ticket prices for the Goody’s^® Headache Relief Shot^® 500 begin at just $40.

Ticket prices increase the week of the race. 

Tickets to the Goody’s^® Headache Relief Shot^® 500 on Oct. 26, the Kroger 200 on Oct. 25 and the Virginia Lottery Pole Day on Oct. 24 can be purchased by calling 1.877.RACE.TIX. Tickets may also be purchased online at www.martinsvillespeedway.com.