CONCORD, N.C. — Humpy Wheeler has stepped down as president and general manager of Lowe's Motor Speedway, ending a 33-year career as one of NASCAR's top promoters.

Wheeler announced his retirement today. He'll step down after Sunday's Coca-Cola 600 at the track near Charlotte.

No replacement was selected for the 69-year-old Wheeler, who plans to write a book and do commentary.

Wheeler had a flare for the dramatic, routinely holding news conferences with magicians, dogs, and other props. But Wheeler was also behind several of the sports innovations.

Lowe's Motor Speedway was first track to hold a night NASCAR race and sign a naming rights deal.