NASCAR and the Official NASCAR Members Club (ONMC) has announced it has begun appointing presidents of its local chapters, an aggressive grassroots program designed to bring the spirit of NASCAR into every community in America.

In an effort to recognize NASCAR's most passionate fans, the ONMC is establishing thousands of local chapters in all 50 states across the country.  Over 600 candidates have already applied.  These local chapters will be sanctioned by the ONMC national office, but largely will be developed and managed by official members of the local organization.

Chapter members will enjoy VIP status within the ONMC, will organize local NASCAR race viewing parties and will participate in NASCAR initiatives in their local communities across the country.  The Official NASCAR Members Club was launched earlier this year to allow race fans to become more involved with NASCAR and enjoy some unprecedented benefits, access and inside information.  Among the more popular benefits include behind the scenes access to NASCAR race week events at the track, weekend travel packages to races and discounts on authentic NASCAR racing merchandise.

The local chapter initiative will ensure the NASCAR banner hangs proudly everywhere there are NASCAR fans. 

"Local chapters allow members of the Official NASCAR Members Club to officially participate in NASCAR and form a special bond with other fans in their hometown," said Pat Brady, chairman and CEO of the ONMC.  "Now, through these local chapters, fans can follow the sport they love and share their passion with others."

"The spirit of the NASCAR fan has never been more evident than with the establishment of the Official NASCAR Members Club local chapters," said Mark Dyer, NASCAR vice president for licensing.  "Bringing NASCAR to a fan's hometown is one of the great benefits that the ONMC offers. Through the unfolding of this grassroots process, fans from all corners of America will now have a better opportunity to follow the sport in a more meaningful way."

Annual dues in the Official NASCAR Members Club are $40.  Fans that join now will receive "Charter Member" status.  Fans can join by visiting www.NASCAR.com or calling 877-MY-NASCAR (877-696-2722).  Information regarding organizing local chapters can be found on the site by clicking the Local Chapters tab.  The link to the application is on that page.