Ross Chastain and Cordele Motor Speedway go way back. This little gem in Georgia, just off I-75, isn’t just a 3/8-mile asphalt oval with fast cars and a buzzing atmosphere—it’s a track with roots that tie directly to Chastain’s life as an eighth-generation watermelon farmer. Known as the Watermelon Capital Speedway, it’s no wonder the place has a special spot in his heart.
Now, Chastain is taking that connection to the next level. The NASCAR Cup Series star is stepping up to back a new racing series at Cordele, even putting his own money into it. It’s called the Melon Man Truck Series, and it’s all about supporting grassroots racing while keeping the fun alive at this beloved local track.
The Melon Man Truck Series
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Here’s the deal: the Melon Man Truck Series will roll out five races in 2025, each paying $1,200 to the winner and $200 just for starting. That’s serious cash for local drivers and teams, and it’s all thanks to Chastain. The first race kicks off on February 1 during Cordele’s Super Fest 2025, a huge event that already draws plenty of attention. After that, the series will run on March 8, April 19, June 7, and August 30. All five races will feature 50 laps of high-octane action.
And here’s the cherry—or melon—on top: Chastain himself might jump behind the wheel for the series opener. Imagine a local race with a NASCAR star in the mix. It doesn’t get much better than that for the fans or the track. Cordele Motor Speedway’s team couldn’t be happier about the partnership. Having Chastain onboard not only boosts the track’s profile but also highlights how important grassroots racing is to the sport.
Ross Chastain’s journey from watermelon farms to the NASCAR Cup Series is nothing short of remarkable. But what makes him truly stand out is how much he gives back. Supporting Cordele Motor Speedway and launching the Melon Man Truck Series shows just how committed he is to keeping the sport’s roots strong.
For local fans, this new series means exciting races and the chance to see Chastain in action on a local track. For Chastain, it’s a way to merge his two great loves—racing and watermelons—while giving back to the community that’s supported him over the years.
The first Melon Man Truck Series race is just around the corner, and it’s shaping up to be a season to remember. If you want to catch the action, keep an eye on Cordele Motor Speedway’s website and social media channels.
Ross Chastain’s history with Cordele
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This isn’t Chastain’s first rodeo at Cordele. He’s been racing here for years, particularly during SpeedFest, a standout event that’s called Cordele home since 2012. SpeedFest has seen some big names over the years, from Kyle Busch to Georgia’s own Chase Elliott and David Ragan.
Chastain has been a regular at SpeedFest, and in 2024, he finished second in the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour event. But SpeedFest isn’t just about racing for Chastain; it’s also a platform for his “Protect Your Melon” campaign.
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via Getty BRISTOL, TENNESSEE – SEPTEMBER 17: Ross Chastain, driver of the #1 Worldwide Express Chevrolet, waves to fans as he walks onstage during driver intros prior to the NASCAR Cup Series Bass Pro Shops Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway on September 17, 2022 in Bristol, Tennessee. (Photo by Logan Riely/Getty Images)
Teaming up with the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, Chastain uses his watermelon-farming roots to promote seatbelt safety with a clever slogan. It’s part public service, part personal passion, and it fits perfectly with his larger-than-life personality.
Cordele Motor Speedway has long been a hub for Southeastern racing and a favorite among drivers and fans. Whether it’s Bandoleros, Legends cars, Go Karts, or Outlaw Late Models, there’s always something happening at this high-speed, family-friendly track.
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By creating the Melon Man Truck Series, Chastain is doing more than putting his name on a few races. He’s helping secure the future of local racing at Cordele, where young drivers cut their teeth and seasoned racers keep the spirit of the sport alive.