Latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Midlands

Darlington, S.C. (WACH) - The small town of Darlington will be the center of the racing world this weekend as nearly 70,000 race fans are expected to pack Darlington Raceway for two races, including Saturday's Bojangles 500.

"The economic impact on our state is huge, about 50 million dollars," said track president Chris Browning.  "We sell tickets in 50 states and 10 foreign countries."

Mike Bumgarner makes a living on the NASCAR circuit going city to city, much like the drivers and pit crews all the fans come to see.  Bumgarner sells everything from die-cast collectibles to gear from today's top drivers. 

Things are starting to get back into high gear after a slow economy took a toll for several years.  "I hope that it's getting better and I think things are generally getting better," said Bumgarner.

Greg Biffle won the pole for Saturday's race, which can only be seen on WACH-Fox beginning at 6:30.