The Nationwide Series has established itself as the No. 2 motorsports series in the United States. It was formed in 1982 when NASCAR consolidated the old Late Model Sportsman division into a touring series of nearly 30 races per year; the series, however, has roots dating back more than six decades. The Nationwide Series represents the middle rung in NASCAR's national series, situated between the Sprint Cup and Camping World Truck series. The series has proven to be an outstanding series for up-and-coming competitors who aspire to become Sprint Cup drivers, with a number of today's premier series stars having developed their skills in the series over the years. Many still race in the Nationwide Series, pulling double duty. However, many series-only regulars also have chosen to spend their entire careers on the circuit due to its competitive nature and popularity.