Darlington, SC - (March 2, 2004) Springtime weddings are as much a tradition in South Carolina as race weekend at Darlington. The 48th running of the Carolina Dodge Dealers 400 will take place on the first day of spring, offering the perfect opportunity to combine the best of the worlds of racing and matrimony.

"Every year, dozens of fans call the office before each of our two race weekends, asking about the possibility of getting married at Darlington," said Andrew Gurtis, president of Darlington Raceway. "Last year, we decided to give a try, and the response was overwhelming, to put it mildly. The available wedding packages sold out in three days."

Darlington Raceway's spring 2004 wedding package includes a marriage ceremony in Gatorade Victory Lane on Sunday morning, prior to the Carolina Dodge Dealers 400; four pre-race pit passes; a souvenir program; a commemorative event souvenir; and embroidered Darlington Raceway caps for the bride and groom. Cost for the package is $200.

Participants must be 18 years of age or older and provide photo identification and a valid South Carolina marriage license. South Carolina marriage licenses may be obtained from any Probate Court office in the state. If you are traveling to Darlington from out of state and need information on how you can obtain a South Carolina marriage license after you arrive, call the Darlington County Probate Court office at 843.398.4310.

For more information or to schedule your March 21 wedding at Darlington Raceway, contact Deena Shelley at 843.395.8892.  Wedding packages must be scheduled in advance; only a limited number are available. 

"Your wedding day is one of the most significant and memorable occasions of your life," Gurtis said. "This track obviously holds a special place in many hearts, and we are honored that so many of our guests want to exchange their vows at Darlington Raceway."

For more information on upcoming events at Darlington Raceway, including the 48th running of the Carolina Dodge Dealers 400 on Sunday, March 21 and the Diamond Hill Plywood 200 on Saturday, March 20, contact the Raceway ticket hotline toll-free at 1.866.459.RACE (7223), or log onto www.darlingtonraceway.com.

Contact:  Darlington Raceway public relations 843.395.8892

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