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LUCAMA, N.C. (August 18, 2026) — One of Tour-Type Modified racing’s longstanding traditions will write its next chapter at one of the Carolinas’ premier short tracks, as the North-South Shootout will be held at Southern National Motorsports Park on November 6-7, 2026.
The two-day weekend will feature practice on Friday, November 6, followed by racing on Saturday, November 7. The Tour-Type and 602 Modifieds will headline Saturday’s program as part of Southern National’s Road to the Classic alongside their local divisions: Chargers, Legends, and Any Cars.
The agreement between North-South Shootout owner Chad Kepley and Southern National Motorsports Park owner Michael Diaz is for the 2026 event, with both looking at the partnership as an opportunity to strengthen the event now, explore future opportunities to work together and help position the Shootout for continued growth.
“I’m really excited about bringing the North-South Shootout to Southern National,” said Kepley. “This race means a lot to me and to a lot of people who have been part of it over the years. I think the high banks are going to make for some great Modified racing. I’m grateful to Michael for believing in the Shootout and for working with me to respect its history while continuing to build for the future.”
The move introduces the North-South Shootout to Southern National’s distinctive 4/10-mile oval, where 17-degree banking in the corners and a wide racing surface have helped establish the track as a fixture of short-track racing in the Carolinas.
“I’ve always enjoyed Modified racing, and I’m excited to have the North-South Shootout come to Southern National and continue the tradition of bringing northern and southern Modifieds together,” said Diaz. “There’s something special about these cars, the drivers, and the fans who follow them, and I think they’re going to put on an incredible show on this racetrack. I’d love to see the Shootout experience a resurgence and work with Chad to explore new opportunities for the event in the future.”
For Kepley and Diaz, the immediate focus is on making the 2026 event successful for competitors and fans. At the same time, both see an opportunity to expand the Shootout’s reach, strengthen the connection between northern and southern Modified racing and build on its legacy without losing the character that has made the event special.
The Tour-Type Modifieds will compete on Hoosier Racing Tires for the 2026 North-South Shootout.
“Hoosier Tire South has been a supporter of the North-South Shootout since its inception,” said Jeff Freeman of Hoosier Asphalt Oval South, the tire distributor for the event. “We are proud to continue this support as the event moves to Southern National Motorsports Park. Southern National provides a great track and facility for Modified racing at the highest level.”
Additional information regarding the 2026 North-South Shootout, including race format, purse, entry information, tire procedures, Friday practice schedule, Saturday schedule and ticket information, will be announced in the coming weeks. Information about the 2026 North-South Shootout can be found at www.snmpark.com/NSS.
2026 NORTH-SOUTH SHOOTOUT
Southern National Motorsports Park — Lucama, North Carolina
Friday, November 6 — Practice
Saturday, November 7 — Race Day
Divisions: Tour-Type Modifieds, 602 Modifieds, Chargers, Legends, Any Cars
