It was only the second time the Legacy Award has been presented in the six-year history of the Economic Development Corporation's Annual Business Appreciation Awards.

"The economic impact of the track on this community since its opening 60 years ago is immeasurable," said Mark Heath, president and CEO of the Martinsville-Henry County Economic Development Corporation. "Every year, hundreds of thousands of race fans and teams flock to our community, stay in our hotels and eat in our restaurants.

"They experience NASCAR like nowhere else on the half-mile paperclip track that has afforded Martinsville and Henry County international recognition. It is, without a doubt, our community's greatest marketing tool."

Heath said Martinsville Speedway's impact on the community went far beyond its economic contributions.

"In addition to its racing events, the speedway feels great civic responsibility and is very active in our community," Heath said during the presentation. "Whether hosting after prom parties, charitable walks around the track or the highly anticipated Fourth of July community celebration, the speedway gives back to our community at every turn. We are fortunate to have the track and the commitment of its founders, the Campbell family, and current owners, the International Speedway Corporation."

The EDC established the Legacy Award to recognize businesses that have had significant economic impact on the Martinsville and Henry County community over many years. The recipients have changed and shaped the face of the community, bringing money into the local economy and being generous civic stewards in return. They have also shown tenacity in diversifying their own business, changing when necessary to grow and succeed in Martinsville and Henry County.

"We are honored and humbled by this award," said Martinsville Speedway president Clay Campbell. "Martinsville and Henry County is my home, my family's home and home to our employees. The welfare of this area is very important to us, and anything we can do to help the area is a priority to us. Again, this award is very humbling to us."

Campbell was presented a mixed media painting depicting 60 years of racing history, created by Martinsville artist Karen Despot. The painting actually included rubber and lug nuts from April's Goody's Cool Orange 500 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup race at Martinsville Speedway.