GREENBELT, Md. — Christopher Goggins of Greenbelt walked away with a $7,500 prize after his journey in the NASCAR Powerball Playoff™ came to an end during the Xfinity 500 at Martinsville Speedway on Sunday. Goggins, who advanced to the Round of 8 in the promotional event, was eliminated before reaching the Championship 4 Round.
Goggins, a federal worker and casual NASCAR fan, closely followed each race to see if he advanced in the playoff. “It was very exciting. It’s been nerve-racking, but it was fun,” he said after his final round.
The 57-year-old said he initially entered the contest as a fan of former Washington Commanders coach Joe Gibbs, who now owns a NASCAR team. His wife encouraged him to enjoy the experience without getting “too high or too low,” advice he followed throughout the rounds. Goggins only shared his participation with his three adult children after he was eliminated from the competition.
Goggins advanced through multiple rounds, watching live as the winners were announced at each race. He made it to the Round of 16 during the Cook Out Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway on Sept. 1, progressed to the Round of 12 at the Bass Pro Shops Night Race on Sept. 21, and reached the Round of 8 at the Bank of America ROVAL™ 400 on Oct. 13.
The four remaining finalists in the NASCAR Powerball Playoff™ have won a VIP trip to the NASCAR Championship Weekend™ in Phoenix, where they will compete for a $1 million prize during the Cup Series Championship Race™ on Nov. 10.
Although Goggins missed the chance to compete for the $1 million, he plans to watch the final race. “I will watch it and I wish the rest of the players the best of luck,” he said.
