Thousands of hardcore race fans braved the rainy weather in Uptown Charlotte on Saturday for the NASCAR Preview that featured more than 50 drivers and several media personalities at the Charlotte Convention Center.

The main floor of the convention center was covered with the new 2012 Sprint Cup cars and other exhibits as long lines of fans waited patiently to meet drivers from all three of NASCAR's touring series creating a carnival like atmosphere for those attending day two of NASCAR Acceleration Weekend.

"This is great, it's as close as we'll get to being in the garage at a NASCAR race," said Jack Smyth, who arrived in town with his family Friday night after driving several hours from Tennessee. "All the drivers are here under one roof and we have met several very nice people today. We're looking forward to the 2012 racing season getting started." 

Many fans made a day of it and could be seen carrying a significant number of autographed items including die cast cars, photos and even race tires.

NASCAR Acceleration Weekend concludes Sunday with the Class of 2012 meeting with fans at the Hall of Fame.

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