Lifelong Coca-Cola 600 fans struggling with missing big race

CONCORD, N.C. — Many race fans have been coming to the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway for decades.

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But this year spectators won’t be allowed in due to the coronavirus pandemic. That has left fans both sad and frustrated.

Harry Wiley from Johnson City, said he feels “lost” not being at the race. He and his wife Judy normally spend 18 days in Charlotte reuniting with friends over food, drinks and racing.

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But this year Wiley, like thousands of other race fans, will watch NASCAR’s crown jewel on television from his home.

Wiley likens it to losing a friend, saying “I have nothing to do now.”