Although much of the US is still facing COVID-19 restrictions, Daytona Bike Week is going ahead, and so is the Daytona 200 roadrace, as well as the Volusia Half-Mile flat track race.

The 2020 Daytona 200 was canceled because of COVID-19. Remember, this whole coronavirus pandemic started to hit North America at end of last February and start of March. Racers were on-site at the track in Daytona when President Trump declared a state of emergency in the US. The racers had expected to go ahead with no fans in the stands; as it turned out, they were all sent home, with no racing.

According to the Daytona International Speedway website, the organizers plan to go ahead with a limited number of fans in attendance this year, although that could change. Visit the Speedway’s website for more details and ticket prices.

Over the past few years, the Canadian contingent hasn’t been as strong as it was through the 1990s and early 2000s, and there are no Canucks at this year’s race, due to border restrictions. However, Isle of Man TT star Michael Dunlop should be at this year’s race; it’s hard to imagine he’ll win his first race on the banked track, but he certainly adds an interesting storyline.

Other racers to watch this year are Danny Eslick, who’s looking for his fifth win at the 200, and Kyle Wyman, who’s looking to repeat his 2019 victory.

Remember that the Daytona 200 is now a race for 600 supersports, as litrebikes shred their tires at the Speedway.

The 2021 Daytona 200 runs on NBC Sports Gold on Saturday, March 13, at 1 PM ET.

Flat Track Racing Kicks Off

American Flat Track starts its 2021 season this weekend, with two races at Volusia Speedway Park. The Volusia Half-Mile I race runs Friday, March 12 starting at 7 PM ET. The Volusia Half-Mile II race runs the next day, starting at 7 PM. NBC Sports Gold will broadcast the second race, following the Daytona 200 broadcast.

For more details on the Volusia flat track races, visit the American Flat Track website. Like the Daytona 200, the flat track races will be open to fans, and the website is selling tickets.

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