DAUPHIN COUNTY, Pa. — The Hershey Spring Car Racing Experience was back today and took off with more than 4,000 people in attendance to catch a flash of their favorites.
And while there's plenty of excitement, there's also plenty of local ties to the event and the stadium.
The World of Outlaws drivers, best known for their sprint car and late models series, hit the classrooms before walking out onto the track today. Milton Hershey students had the chance to meet with the drivers and break down the skill of racing.
Several students spoke with four Outlaw drivers about their careers and work ethic. They were also able to build make-shift racing cars. The activity wasn't only to show them how things work or how to keep them from breaking down, but also to broaden the racing audience to the younger generation.
"Racing gets a bit of a reputation for having an older fanbase," said World of Outlaws driver Giovanni Scelzi. "Getting kids interested in racing and motor sporting cars in general is huge. I think to show them how fast a car is going, racing on dirt is awesome."
The day of learning didn't stop there though, Milton Hershey students attended the Hersheypark Stadium to tour the driver rigs, chat with crews and sit in antique cars.