NASHVILLE, TN – February 17, 2023 – One of Bristol Motor Speedway’s founding fathers and prominent Tennessee state legislator, the late Carl R. Moore, has been named a member of the 2023 Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Class. The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame pays homage to the state’s rich sports history and their impact within the community. On behalf of sponsor Tennessee Lottery, the Hall offers free admission at their downtown Nashville location Tuesday- Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
*Photo used with permission from Bristol Motor Speedway
“Auto racing has such a great history in the state of Tennessee, and when you think of some of the founding fathers of auto racing in the state, you have to include Carl R. Moore,” said Brad Willis, Executive Director of the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame. “His vision helped create Bristol Motor Speedway and Bristol Dragway, venues synonymous with their sport. We’re thrilled to honor his career and his life as part of our 2023 celebration.”
Moore, along with co-founders Larry Carrier and R. G. Pope, worked tirelessly to establish Bristol Motor Speedway and Bristol Dragway as they opened in 1961 and 1965, respectively. He also founded the International Hot Rod Association in 1970. Moore served in the Tennessee House of Representatives and later as the majority leader of the state Senate. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and served on the East Tennessee State University Board of Advisors. Moore passed away on September 30, 2021 at the age of 91.
Moore joins MTSU baseball legend Steve Smith and Lady Vol Track Star and Olympic Gold Medalist Tianna Madison as 2023 Inductees. The full 2023 Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Induction Class will be released over the coming weeks.
The 2023 Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony, presented by the Tennessee Titans, will be held Saturday, July 22nd at the Omni Nashville Downtown. Ticket information will be announced at a later date.
About the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame
Established in 1966, the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, sponsored by the Tennessee Lottery, enshrines and honors athletes, teams, coaches, sports writers and sports administrators who have made an impact on the history of Tennessee sports. The Hall serves as a platform to connect athletes, coaches, sports fans, and supporters by acknowledging life achievements implemented through sports. The Hall celebrates athletes of all forms, from all across the state. Additionally, Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame aspires to educate youth about the importance of healthy habits and the positive impact they have on lifestyle choices. The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame is located at 501 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203. For more information, visit www.tshf.net.
About the Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation
The Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation operates entirely from the revenue it generates through the sale of its products. Since January 20, 2004, the Lottery has raised more than $6 billion to fund designated education programs, including college grants, scholarships, Drive to 55 initiatives and after-school programs. In addition to the educational beneficiaries, players have won more than $16.5 billion in prizes and Lottery retailers have earned more than $1.5 billion in commissions. For additional information, visit tnlottery.com and follow the TEL on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram.
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