Desmond Howard - Photo Credit: ESPN

Desmond Howard, the former Heisman Trophy-winning University of Michigan football star and current ESPN college football analyst, will serve as grand marshal for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Pure Michigan 400 on Aug. 21.

“He’s given college football fans excitement throughout his career so it will be great to host a superstar like Desmond Howard at Michigan International Speedway and show him how exciting NASCAR is,” MIS President Roger Curtis said. “Since his college days, Desmond has been a huge supporter of the state of Michigan and I know with the college football season just around the corner, a lot of people in the garages will be excited to have him here. He’s Pure Michigan.”

“We are thrilled to have Desmond Howard back in Michigan as the grand marshal of the Pure Michigan 400,” said George Zimmermann, Vice President for Travel Michigan, a part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “His successes on and off the field are inspirational and we know fans will be excited to join him at the first-ever Pure Michigan 400.”

While at the University of Michigan, Howard’s acrobatic catches made him one of the most electrifying players ever to play the game. He became the first receiver in Big Ten history to lead the conference in scoring as he set or tied five NCAA records and 12 single-season Michigan records.

The All-American won the Heisman by the second largest margin of victory in the trophy’s history. He was also awarded the Walter Camp Trophy and the Maxwell Award that year before graduating from the University of Michigan with a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications.

Howard played 11 seasons in the National Football League for five teams, including two seasons with the Detroit Lions. While playing for the Green Bay Packers, Howard was voted the Most Valuable Player of Super Bowl XXXI and is the first and only special teams player to win the award. He is one of only four players to win both the Heisman Trophy and Super Bowl MVP.

Howard’s post-professional football career achievements include being elected in 2010 College Football Hall of Fame and being inducted into the Gator Bowl Hall of Fame, the University of Michigan Hall of Honor, State of Michigan Sports Hall of Fame and Cleveland Sports Hall of Fame.

Howard’s Collegiate Hall of Fame career will be chronicled in the upcoming book, I Wore 21: The Legend of Desmond Howard. The 190-page book, published by Champions Press, LLC, features unique stories and hundreds of photos never seen before from the Howard Family collection.

I Wore 21: The Legend of Desmond Howard is available by pre-order online at MDen.com. Retail price for pre-orders of the book are $21, and it will be sold for $20 in and around Michigan Stadium on Sept. 10.

Nestled in the lush Irish Hills of Southeastern Michigan, Michigan International Speedway is the Great Escape, a venerable NASCAR national park where fans can get away and enjoy the very best in racing and camaraderie. It’s the love of racing and the thrill of a great time for race fans and drivers alike.

Keep up with Michigan International Speedway via Twitter @MISpeedway or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MISpeedway. Join our Mobile Fan Club by texting MISCLUB on a Sprint Handheld or other mobile device to 69050 on a Sprint Smartphone or other mobile device. Standard text message rates may apply.

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series tickets for the Pure Michigan 400 on Aug. 21 are as low as $30 while supplies last. Visit MISpeedway.com or call the MIS ticket hotline at 800-354-1010 today to take advantage of great pricing for 2011 events at MIS. The ticket office is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Friday; and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

As always, parking is free at MIS – and the track allows coolers through the gates. Check the speedway’s website for details.

Michigan International Speedway – 2011 Schedule

Friday, Aug. 19 Meijer Pole Day
Saturday, Aug. 20 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series VFW 200
Sunday, Aug. 21 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Pure Michigan 400

Sunday, Sept. 11 Spirit of America Blood Drive – 10^th Anniversary!

- Michigan International Speedway, Press Release

Richard Petty - (Photo Credit: Getty Images)

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (May 26, 2011) –

“As our partnership with STP developed we became excited at the many opportunities it presented. STP’s return to the sport and longtime relationship with Richard lends an element of our sport’s history to Kansas Speedway.” said Pat Warren, president of Kansas Speedway.

Petty, winner of a record 200 races, seven NASCAR Cup championships and inaugural inductee into NASCAR’s Hall of Fame, will have a busy weekend at Kansas Speedway. On Friday morning at 9 AM, “The King” will be available to the media in the track’s infield media center. From 9-9:30 AM Saturday, he will conduct a question and answer session in the Sprint Fan Walk located between the Sprint Cup and Camping World Truck Series garages. Fans can participate in Saturday morning’s Q & A by purchasing Sprint Fan Walk tickets online at www.kansasspeedway.com or by calling 866.460.RACE.

Kansas Speedway will host the STP 400, the first of two Sprint Cup races this year on Sunday, June 5th. The series will be joined by the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series on June 4th for the O’Reilly Auto Parts 250. The Nationwide Series will be in action on Saturday, October 8th for the running of the Kansas Lottery 300, followed by the Hollywood Casino 400 at Kansas Speedway Cup event on Sunday, October 9th.

Tickets for all Kansas Speedway events are on sale now and are available by calling 866.460.RACE or by visiting www.kansasspeedway.com. As always, parking is free and race fans are welcome to bring a 14x14x14-inch soft-sided cooler into the grandstands with their favorite food and beverages.

- Kansas Speedway, Press Release

INDYCAR LOGO

Today’s IZOD IndyCar Series and Firestone Indy Lights headlines:

1. Dragon Racing, Tracy to debut at Long Beach

2. Gen. Colin L. Powell Announced as Grand Marshal for Baltimore Grand Prix

3. IZOD Presents Hot Wheels Fearless at the 500

4. Team E signs Mitchell for Long Beach

5. Carpenter, Fisher launch in Laps for Literacy

1. Dragon Racing, Tracy to debut at Long Beach: Jay Penske, former co-owner of de Ferran Dragon Racing and Luczo Dragon Racing, today announced the formation of Dragon Racing, a new team created to compete in the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series.

Dragon Racing will begin the 2011 program with a start on April 17 at the Long Beach Grand Prix, and has secured the services of veteran Paul Tracy as the driver for Dragon Racing’s No. 8 entry. A total of five races are planned with Tracy during in the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series season, including Long Beach, Texas, Toronto, Edmonton and Sonoma. In addition, the team will enter a car in the Indianapolis 500 with a driver yet to be named.

“We are very excited to be returning to the IZOD IndyCar Series and delighted to have a driver like Paul Tracy piloting the race car,” Penske said. “Paul is an outstanding driver and we are confident this partnership will become the building blocks for something longer term. After discussing available options with my former co-owners, and with their full support, I decided to take a different path and as a result I am extremely pleased to continue the Dragon name with a team that is substantially the same as our 2010 lineup managed by 21-year-veteran John Cummiskey.”

Tracy, now in his 21st season of Indy car racing, has compiled an impressive career. He’s listed among the top 10 in almost every statistical category, including wins (tied for seventh with 31), poles (ninth with 25) and laps led (sixth with 4,238). Tracy earned 75 career podium finishes, 102 top-5 finishes and captured the Champ Car World Series championship in 2003. Tracy has won at Long Beach four times.

“It’s great to be racing again, and I’m excited to be working with Dragon Racing,” Tracy said. ”I explored several options for the 2011 season, and partnering with Jay Penske makes it that much more special for me. I’ve known Jay for many years, since my time with Penske Racing. After just a few discussions I realized we shared the same vision and that the newly formed Dragon Racing team was the best fit for my extended return to the IndyCar Series. We’ve been working hard to bring this partnership to life, and I look forward to competitive runs at a number of tracks I’ve had success in the past.”

Added Penske: “Even though we are initially only running a limited schedule, the team is very realistic and understands we will face challenges together during the season. However, with Paul’s talent, and our crew’s collective racing experience of over 150 years, I feel that we can be competitive at any race we compete in and may even surprise a few people along the way.”

Ralphs Grocery will join Dragon Racing as the primary sponsor for the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach in a retailer partnership that includes support from PepsiCo, FritoLay, Berringer Wine and Rockstar Energy Drink. Motegi Racing and Wheel Pros will provide extended sponsorship support for all Dragon Racing events in the 2011 season.

“Motegi and Wheel Pros have a strong association with racing, and we are thrilled to join with Dragon Racing in support of Paul Tracy this season,” said Jody Groce, President of Wheel Pros. ”We have been a long-time sponsor of Paul and to be a part his new partnership with Dragon is just great for our brands and associates throughout the organization. We look forward to helping bring the team back to prominence within the IZOD IndyCar Series.”

The team will have additional sponsor news, to be announced soon.

2. General Colin L. Powell Announced as Grand Marshal for Baltimore Grand Prix: The Baltimore Grand Prix announced today that former Secretary of State, Gen.Colin L. Powell, will be the honorary Grand Marshal for the inaugural Baltimore Grand Prix to be held Sept. 4.

As Grand Marshal, General Powell will give the command to “Start Your Engines” to the field of IndyCar drivers at the start of the 80-lap event which will be televised live on VERSUS. Gen. Powell will also be given the opportunity to take a 180 mile per hour tour of the 2.0 -ile temporary street circuit in downtown Baltimore from the passenger seat of the famed INDYCAR Racing Experience two-seater.

“I’ve always had a passion for racing and a passion for the city of Baltimore,” said General Powell. ”The opportunity to be Grand Marshal for the inaugural grand prix is an honor as it will showcase the city of Baltimore and the beautiful Inner Harbor to a worldwide audience and I’m very happy to be a part of that, and I must admit, I’m really looking forward to my 180 mile per hour tour of the city.”

Baltimore Grand Prix President and CEO, Jay Davidson, was enthused by the General’s acceptance of the Grand Marshal role. ”The city of Baltimore has a long history with the United States Armed Forces and to have General Powell in our city to experience this inaugural event is an absolute honor,” said Davidson. ”We are planning a number of activities surrounding the Baltimore Grand Prix that will thank and celebrate the role and sacrifice that members of the military have given to our country.”

3. IZOD Presents Hot Wheels Fearless at the 500: Since the inaugural running of the Indianapolis 500 in 1911, men and women have risked their lives chasing speed and glory at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. On May 29, a Team Hot Wheels member will attempt both in the IZOD Presents Hot Wheels Fearless at the 500.

The masked driver will attempt to break the world record distance jump of 302 feet in a four-wheeled vehicle preceding the 100^th anniversary of the Indianapolis 500. The driver will sit atop a 10-story frame, speed down a 90-foot ramp and soar across an infield section in Turn 4 at the Speedway.

The stunt brings to life the iconic Mattel Hot Wheels V-Drop track set that youngsters have attached to their bedroom doors for years, and is part of an overarching brand campaign designed to extend the Hot Wheels experience to fans of all ages.

“The essence of this multi-year, multi-platform campaign is all about taking the feelings you experienced when playing with Hot Wheels as a kid and bringing them to real life in full scale,” said Simon Waldron, vice president of marketing for Hot Wheels. “Featuring an epic vehicle stunt at this year’s centennial anniversary of the Indy 500, we are engaging fans with a jaw-dropping moment in a way that only Hot Wheels can.”

The jump will be attempted by the Yellow Racer from Team Hot Wheels – professional stunt drivers spanning four vehicle disciplines: rally (green), drift (blue), off road truck (yellow) and freestyle motocross (red). The driver’s identity will be revealed following the world record attempt. A 30-minute documentary-style special is in the works to air on Race Day.

The experiential marketing campaign includes a sweepstakes – with prizes including a VIP trip to the Indy 500 – and social media applications.

Fans can engage with Team Hot Wheels branded content at www.hotwheels.com/videos and become a fan on www.facebook/Hot Wheels to watch exclusive behind-the-scenes training and stunt videos.

Through April 30, fans can go to www.hotwheels.com/forreal for a chance to win a VIP trip to the Indianapolis 500 or thousands of other prizes.

“It’s all about evolving Hot Wheels,” Waldron said.

4. Team E signs Mitchell for Long Beach: Texan Rusty Mitchell will make his Firestone Indy Lights debut at the Long Beach 100 with Team E.

Mitchell is the latest up-and-coming driver to join the Florida-based Firestone Indy Lights team. The Star Mazda graduate earned his seat in the No. 17 Team E/Motorola/ Petro Communications entry after impressing the crew and Team Owner Neil Enerson recently in private testing at Firebird International Raceway.

“Team E is happy to be back on track again this season with Rusty Mitchell,” said Enerson. “Rusty, although a rookie to our series, is not a rookie to racing. Rusty ran his own Star Mazda team. His understanding of the owner and driver side of the business at this level is rare. We look forward to him competing at Long Beach.”

Based in Midland, Texas, the 28-year-old Mitchell has had plenty of success in his racing career.

He captured four IKF regional championships, one WKA divisional championship and a SKUSA Long Track National championship in go karts before making the move to cars.

Mitchell captured both the SCCA Southwest Division National Formula Enterprises title and the FormulaCar Magazine FE Championship Midwest/Southwest crown in his first season of action.

Mitchell raced in the Star Mazda championship the past two seasons, earning one pole position, one podium position, four top-fives and 14 top-10s with a privateer effort. Prior to joining Team E on the streets of Long Beach, the Texan has made the transition to sports car competition this season, co-driving an Intersport Racing LMP Challenge entry in the American Le Mans Series.

“I can’t wait to compete at one of the most prestigious events in North America with such a great team,” said Mitchell. “Neil and all the guys at Team E have shown they have the personal and equipment in place to win races in the (Firestone) Indy Lights series. I think this is a great opportunity for myself, as well as my sponsors to get our feet wet in the series, and hopefully put together a multi-race package later in the season, and possibly a full year in 2012. I want think my sponsors Motorola and Petro Communications, as well as Neil Enerson and the guys at Team E for getting this deal put together in such a short amount of time.”

5. Carpenter, Fisher launch in Laps for Literacy: IZOD IndyCar Series driver Ed Carpenter and team owner Sarah Fisher have started a program entitled “Laps for Literacy” developed by Heather Carpenter and supported by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation.

“I am very excited to finally start our ‘Laps for Literacy’ program,” Carpenter said. “We have all been working very hard to put this together, and I especially have to thank my wife, Heather, for heading this program. I can’t wait to meet all of the kids and talk to them about our sport and the importance of reading and education in everyday life. Leading into the Centennial 500, I can’t think of a better way for our team to serve the kids and schools of our state.”

In conjunction with the 100th anniversary of the Indianapolis 500 in May, the duo will be visiting 100 classrooms across Indiana.

“I’m really honored to have the support from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation for our first annual ‘Laps for Literacy’ program,” Fisher said. “Developed by Heather Carpenter, it shows the strength in Ed’s family and speaks highly in regards to the type of people they truly are. It will be a tremendous opportunity to share our sport with kids and schools which otherwise might not get to see Indy, and an even better opportunity to help them with some of their needs.”

For more information on the ‘Laps for Literacy’ campaign or to view a detailed schedule of school visits, visit www.sarahfisherracing.com/laps.

***

The 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series continues with the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach on April 17 on the Streets of Long Beach, Calif. The race will be telecast live in High Definition at 3:30 p.m. (ET) by VERSUS. The race will air live on the IMS Radio Network, XM channel 145 and Sirius channel 212 and www.indycar.com. The 2011 Firestone Indy Lights season continues April 17 on the Streets of Long Beach, Calif. with the Long Beach 100. The race will be telecast live in High Definition at 2 p.m. (ET) by VERSUS.

- INDYCAR, Series

Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway

TALLADEGA, Ala. –

“We are excited to welcome Coach Chizik to Talladega,” said Talladega Superspeedway Chairman Grant Lynch.  “The Auburn Tigers made the entire state proud by bringing another BCS National Championship trophy home with them from Glendale.  Of course, Auburn may play a part in another trophy celebration since Michael Waltrip is always a threat to win here at Talladega.  Thanks to our friends at Aaron’s for making all of this a possibility.”

“I am very excited and looking forward to serving as Grand Marshall for the Aaron’s 499,” stated Coach Gene Chizik. “It’s truly an honor to be involved in an event that is huge for our state each spring. The Talladega Superspeedway is one of the greatest race tracks in the country and it will be special to have Auburn University represented in the race with the No. 15 car. We’ll be pulling for Michael Waltrip to take the checkered flag in the Aaron’s No. 15 Auburn car.”

“Aaron’s is proud to partner with Gene Chizik and Auburn University to celebrate their fantastic accomplishment as BCS National Champions,” said Ken Butler of Aaron’s, Inc. “Our company and this race team believes it takes dedication, team work and enthusiasm to achieve dreams. What better place than the Aaron’s Dream Weekend at Talladega to recognize Auburn for making their dreams a reality. We will be thrilled to see Michael in the blue and orange Aaron’s Dream Machine leading the pack on race day.”

“It’s great to partner with Aaron’s and celebrate Auburn’s national championship,” said Michael Waltrip. “I get to be in an Auburn car to let the fans cheer as I race towards the front. If the Alabama fans want to boo, that’s cool too because that means they are taking notice of the Aaron’s car.”

In addition to the Aaron’s 499, Waltrip will also pilot the Michael Waltrip Racing No. 99 in the NASCAR Nationwide Series Aaron’s 312 Saturday, April 16.  The racecar will feature a special paint scheme designed by the winner of Aaron’s national Color Your Way to Talladega promotion, nine year old Shelby Miller from Layton, UT.

“Aaron’s does a great promotion with Color Your Way to Talladega,” Waltrip continued.  “They let a kid design my car and I am really proud of that.  I will be racing Shelby’s car for her at the Aaron’s 312.  There are a few races during the course of the year that I think I can still win and Talladega is one of them.  That’s the goal.  Race for the win.”

The countdown is on for the April 15-17 Aaron’s Dream Weekend at Talladega Superspeedway. Qualifying for the NASCAR Nationwide Series, as well as the ARCA Racing Series 250, is set for Friday, April 15.  On Saturday, April 16, fans will see qualifying for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, followed by the Aaron’s 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series race.  On Sunday, April 17, the greatest drivers in the world face off in the Aaron’s 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race.

To purchase or for more information on tickets to Talladega Superspeedway, please visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com or call 1-877-Go2-DEGA

- Talladega Superspeedway, Press Release

Howie Mandel

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY, Calif.

As Grand Marshal, Mandel will give the most famous command in racing, “Gentlemen, Start Your Engines.” The NASCAR NNS Royal Purple 300 will be televised at 2:30 p.m. PT on ESPN.

Mandel is the host and executive producer of the upcoming Fox special MOBBED, an unscripted show that puts a hidden-camera spin on the “flash mob” concept. And, this summer he returns as a judge on NBC’s hit talent competition series “America’s Got Talent” alongside Sharon Osborne and Piers Morgan. Mandel recently received an Emmy nomination for “Outstanding Reality/Competition Host” for “Deal or No Deal” and a Daytime Emmy nomination for “Outstanding Game Show Host” for the syndicated version of the show.

Mandel’s versatile career has encompassed virtually all aspects of the entertainment spectrum, including television, film and stage.  From his work on the Emmy-Award winning “St. Elsewhere,” to the international animated children’s series “Bobby’s World,” Mandel has become a mainstay of the American comedy scene. In 2009, Mandel added another title to his resume, author, when he released his frank, funny, no-holds-barred memoir Here’s the Deal: Don’t Touch Me.  The memoir that revealed his ongoing struggle with OCD and ADHD–and how it has shaped his life and career made the New York Times Bestseller list on its first week and remained on the list for several consecutive weeks.

To see Howie Mandel live at Auto Club Speedway, tickets to the Royal Purple 300 NNS race on Saturday, March 26 start as low as $30 and AAA members receive Show Your Card & Save discounts.  For more information or to purchase tickets call 800-944-RACE (7223), log on to www.autoclubspeedway.com or visit the Auto Club Speedway ticket office.

About Auto Club Speedway

Look for some amazing racing when the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series returns to Auto Club Speedway for the Auto Club 400 on March 27.  After October’s NSCS race, drivers, media and spectators proclaimed that race as possibly the best ever at Auto Club Speedway- five-wide racing at over 200 mph on the NASCAR circuit!

Free parking, unbelievable menu items and a full weekend of entertainment, live music and fun await fans in the Speedway’s DiscoverIE FanZone.

Auto Club 400 tickets start at $35 and AAA members receive Show Your Card & Save discounts, including a special section with half-priced tickets for kids 12 and under.  And don’t forget children 12 and under can sign up for the FREE Auto Club Speedway Lefty’s Kids Club membership to receive FREE admission on Friday and Saturday.

For more information or to purchase tickets call 800-944-RACE (7223), log on to www.autoclubspeedway.com or visit the Auto Club Speedway Ticket Office.

– Auto Club Speedway, Press Release

California Gubernatorial candidate Meg Whitman

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY, Calif.

As Grand Marshal, the former eBay President and CEO, will give the command, “Gentlemen, Start Your Engines,” to the 43-car field of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.  The event will be televised at noon on ESPN.

Through the years Whitman’s career led her to key executive positions at some of America’s best‐known companies, including Disney, Stride Rite, FTD and Hasbro.

In the fall of 1997 she met the founder of a tiny start‐up company called eBay.   She served as President and CEO from 1998-2008. When she joined eBay, the company had just $4.7 million in revenues and 30 employees; when she retired in March of 2008, ten years later, the company

had nearly $8 billion in revenues and 15,000 employees worldwide.

Race fans can be a part of all the Sunday action with tickets starting as low as $35 and many packages to choose from. Fans experiencing Auto Club Speedway can also take advantage of free parking, bring in their own food, or partake in the unbelievable menu items on site as well as other cost-savings opportunities while enjoying a full day of entertainment and fun at a fantastic family value.

For more information or to purchase tickets, call 1-800-944-RACE (7223) or visit www.autoclubspeedway.com and be part of NASCAR in Southern California.

About Auto Club Speedway

NASCAR’s playoffs go golden when the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup roars into the Golden State and Southern California’s Auto Club Speedway, Oct. 8-10.  Experience a weekend full of speed beginning with NASCAR Qualifying Day (Oct. 8), followed by the NNS CampingWorld.com 300 (Oct. 9) and culminating with Southern California’s “playoff” race – the Pepsi MAX 400 (Oct. 10).  Free parking, unbelievable menu items and a full weekend of entertainment, live music and fun await fans in the Speedway’s DiscoverIE FanZone.

Pepsi MAX 400 tickets start at $35 and AAA members receive Show Your Card & Save discounts, including a special section with half-priced tickets for kids 12 and under.  And don’t forget children 12 and under can sign up for the FREE Auto Club Speedway Lefty’s Kids Club membership to receive FREE admission on Friday and Saturday.

For more information or to purchase tickets call 800-944-RACE (7223) or visit www.autoclubspeedway.com

- Auto Club Speedway, Press Release

Phil Keoghan, host of the hit reality television show The Amazing Race

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY, Calif.

As Grand Marshal, the Emmy Award-winning Keoghan, who has hosted the series since it began airing in 2001, will give the most famous command in racing, “Drivers, Start Your Engines,” to start Auto Club Speedway’s NNS race on Saturday at 1:30 p.m. PT.

In addition to hosting the Emmy Award-winning Race, the New Zealand-born Keoghan, has worked on more than 20 shows in over 70 countries as a television host, producer, writer, and cameraman.

THE AMAZING RACE, currently in its 17th installment, airs Sundays (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.

THE AMAZING RACE sends 11 teams on a trek around the world.  Each Team is comprised of two people who have a pre-existing relationship with one another.  At every destination, each Team competes in a series of challenges – some mental and some physical -and when the tasks have been completed, they learn their next destination.  Teams who are farthest behind will gradually be eliminated as the contest progresses, with the first team to arrive at the final destination winning $1 million.

To see Keoghan give that most famous command in racing to start the CampingWorld.com 300, call 800-944-RACE (7223), or visit www.autoclubspeedway.com.

- Auto Club Speedway, Press Release

Chicagoland Speedway

(Joliet, Ill. – July 1, 2010) –

Keith, the 6-foot-1 fan favorite, made headlines during the historic run for the title through sheer stamina, strength and skill – especially after he returned to the ice less than seven minutes after losing seven teeth in Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals in the 2010 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs. He brought home plenty of hefty hardware in 2010, including the Norris Trophy for best all-around performance in the NHL and a Gold Medal from his home country’s Olympic Games in Vancouver.

There’s no doubt he is the ideal choice to give the order “Gentlemen, start your engines!”

“The Blackhawks captivated the entire city and country with their Stanley Cup-winning run and our fans will love to bring Blackhawk fever to the race,” said Craig Rust, president, Chicagoland Speedway/Route 66 Raceway. “We are honored to have him join us and help us get things going for the Lifelock.com 400.”

Keith will also do a Question and Answer session at 3:30 p.m. on the LifeLock stage in Champions Park, before the LifeLock.com 400.

NASCAR weekend packages are now on sale to the general public and can be purchased by calling 888-629-RACE (7223) or logging on to www.chicagolandspeedway.com.  For information regarding group ticket packages, call 815-722-5500.

MORE ABOUT DUNCAN KEITH

• Became the first player in history to win an Olympic Gold Medal, a Stanley Cup Championship, and the Norris Trophy in the same season in 2010.
• Honored with the 2010 James Norris Memorial Trophy, given to the NHL’s top defenseman.  Became the fourth Blackhawks blueliner to win the award, and the first since 1996.
• Established career-bests in goals (14), assists (55), and points (69) in 82 regular-season games during the 2009-10 campaign.  Led all NHL defensemen in goals, assists, and points at even-strength.
• Led the National Hockey League with 2,180:34 total minutes of ice time during the regular-season.  Paced Chicago in ice time for the fifth consecutive season since joining the Blackhawks.
• Ranked second among defensemen with 17 points (2G,15A) in 22 postseason games in leading the Blackhawks to the 2010 Stanley Cup Championship, the organization’s first since 1961.
• The Winnipeg, Manitoba native led all Olympic defensemen with six assists, and posted a +6 plus/minus rating, while helping Team Canada to a gold medal at the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver.
• Signed a 13-year contract extension with Chicago during the 2009-10 season.

Chicagoland Speedway® and Route 66 Raceway®: Chicagoland Speedway and Route 66 Raceway are wholly-owned by International Speedway Corporation (“ISC”), a leading promoter of motorsports activities.  ISC owns and/or operates 13 of the nation’s major motorsports entertainment facilities, including Daytona International Speedway (home of the Daytona 500), as well as owns or has interest in a number of other motorsports-related businesses.

- Chicagoland Speedway, Press Release

Bobby Labonte

Labonte, who is driving the No. 09 car for owner James Finch in Saturday’s 160-lap, 400-mile race, will give the starting command, “Gentlemen start your engines.”

“We’re honored to have a NASCAR champion such as Bobby Labonte serve as Grand Marshal for the Coke Zero 400,” Daytona International Speedway President Robin Braig said. “Making his 600^th career start is a special moment and it’s a fitting tribute to have Bobby give the starting command for the mid-summer classic.”

Labonte, who is an original member of the Coca-Cola Racing Family, has captured 21 NASCAR Sprint Cup victories and 26 poles as well as the series’ championship in 2000.

“I’m really humbled that Coca-Cola has asked me to be the Grand Marshal for the Coke Zero 400 this weekend,” Labonte said. “It is already an honor to be a part of the Coca-Cola Racing Family and have been fortunate enough to have done some really cool things with them in my career. This, however, is something pretty special.

“I have never been a Grand Marshal for a Sprint Cup race before. This just adds to the excitement of my 600th start this weekend.  I am just really humbled that Coca-Cola has allowed me this opportunity.”

The 52^nd annual Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola will be the final race on the current asphalt of Daytona International Speedway. Following the Coke Zero 400 Powered By Coca-Cola, the entire 2.5-mile tri-oval will be repaved for only the second time in its history.

For tickets to the Coke Zero 400 Weekend Powered By Coca-Cola, visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com or call 1-800-PITSHOP.

Fans can stay connected with Daytona International Speedway on Twitter (www.twitter.com/disupdates) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/DaytonaInternationalSpeedway)

- Daytona International Speedway, Press Release

VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) 200

As grand marshal, Montange will be introduced during pre-race ceremonies for the VFW 200 and will give the famous command for drivers to start their engines before making parade laps in the official Ford Mustang pace car prior to the start of the race.

Montange, who served three tours in Iraq, will be joined by his parents, his sister and her husband as special guests of the VFW Foundation’s Salute to Military Families program and will receive VIP treatment throughout the June race weekend. Montange’s girlfriend is currently serving in Iraq and could not join them for the event.

The family will be provided with a RV for weekend accommodations in the Graves Farm Campground at MIS. MISCamping.com, the official RV rental company and camping sponsor of MIS, and Home Depot partnered to build an access ramp for Montange, who was wounded by an IED bomb during combat and returned home in 2007 a disabled veteran.

Montange and his family will also receive suite passes and garage passes for Friday, Saturday and Sunday’s events. They will enjoy garage tours, pace car rides and special access to drivers’ meetings, pre-race ceremonies and victory lane celebrations.

Through their Salute to Military Families program at MIS, VFW will provide over 500 local veterans and active duty military and their families with grandstand tickets, chalet and suite hospitality with complimentary food and beverage, and special VIP treatment throughout the event weekend at MIS.

The VFW 200 and Salute to Military Families events are part of the VFW Foundation’s nationwide Return the Favor awareness and fundraising campaign designed to honor and celebrate active-duty and retired military and their families.

“Unfortunately, U.S. troops rarely have the luxury to attend sporting events or entertainment activities, so that’s where we step in.  It’s our way of ‘saying thanks’ for all they do,” said John G. Lowe, VFW Foundation Deputy Director. “Our Return the Favor events not only boost troop morale but also draw attention to the urgent needs of U.S. military service personnel.  It also allows us to get the word out about our other programs and services.  These include free communication options for troops overseas so they can call home on a regular basis and financial assistance to their families for rent, mortgage, utilities, vehicle repair, food and medicine.”

The VFW Foundation is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization and the official charity of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), America’s oldest and largest service group for combat veterans. The VFW Foundation receives no government funding, and instead relies solely on public and corporate donations.

Donate today to “return the favor” to those who have given so much.  Find out more about the VFW Foundation and make a donation by visiting www.ReturnTheFavor.org. You can also make a $10 donation by texting “RETURN” to 90999 now.

About the Veterans of Foreign Wars and its Foundation

Since its inception in 1899, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, America’s largest major combat veterans group, has without fail taken the lead in ensuring that issues of vital importance to American military personnel and veterans have not been ignored. This proud tradition of unwavering dedication to the cause of freedom, patriotism and concern for individuals who have so selflessly defended our country abroad is unique to the American experience. Today, our 1,600,000 members, both male and female, come from every conceivable geographic region, ethnic heritage, and span a wide range of adult ages. The VFW Foundation, one of America’s most highly-rated 501(c)(3) nonprofits established in 1996, is the fundraising arm of the VFW.
For more information please contact John G. Lowe, VFW Foundation Deputy Director, at (816) 968-2720 or visit www.vfwfoundation.org

About Michigan International Speedway

Nestled in the lush Irish Hills of Southeastern Michigan, Michigan International Speedway is the Great Escape, a venerable NASCAR national park where fans can get away and enjoy the very best in racing and camaraderie. It’s the love of racing and the thrill of a great time for race fans and drivers alike.  

Tickets for all MIS NASCAR races including the VFW 200 are now on sale. MIS is also offering special discount tickets as low as $25 for the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips 400 on June 13 and the CARFAX 400 on August 15. Visit www.MISpeedway.com or call the MIS ticket hotline at 1-800-354-1010. You can also visit MIS on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MISpeedway or Twitter @MISpeedway.

Michigan International Speedway – 2010 Schedule

Friday, June 11          ARCA Racing Series presented by RE/MAX and Menards Racing for Wildlife 200

Saturday, June 12      NASCAR Camping World Truck Series VFW 200

Sunday, June 13        NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips 400

June 26-27                  Great Lakes Wine Fest

Friday, Aug. 13           Meijer Pole Day

Saturday, Aug. 14       NASCAR Nationwide Series CARFAX 250

Sunday, Aug. 15         NASCAR Sprint Cup Series CARFAX 400

- Michigan International Speedway, Press Release

2010 Coca-Cola 600

Coca-Cola has named John Falkenbury, United Service Organizations of North Carolina president and chief operating officer, the grand marshal for the 51st running of the Coca-Cola 600 (May 30, 6:15 p.m. on FOX). Joining Falkenbury in delivering the most famous words in motorsports will be Megan Grady, USO of North Carolina Charlotte Center Director, as well as three recently reunited military families representing the Army, Marines and Air Force.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Michael S. Foley; U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. James Dickens; U.S. Air Force Technical Sgt. Dustin Barnes and their respective families, will be special guests of Coca-Cola throughout race weekend and will help lead the fans in reciting the “Gentlemen, Start Your Engines” command. Each service member recently was reunited with his family following an overseas deployment.

“Coca-Cola has a 120-year history of bringing families together – whether for special occasions or simple everyday moments – and the Coca-Cola 600 is a perfect opportunity to recognize the important work of the USO in bringing a touch of home to U.S. troops around the world,” said Beatriz Perez, chief marketing officer, Coca-Cola North America.

Tickets for Troops

Coca-Cola and North Carolina-based Coca-Cola Consolidated are partnering to provide 600 tickets to troops stationed at area bases. The companies have purchased the tickets through a program called Let the Troops Race, which gives individuals and companies the chance to purchase tickets for just $20 to send a member of the U.S. armed forces to the Memorial Day Weekend race.

In addition, Charlotte Motor Speedway offers specially priced race tickets to all members of the U.S. armed forces who wish to purchase tickets directly. Military personnel can contact the ticket office at 1-800-455-FANS and supply a military identification number for specific details.

About the Coca-Cola 600

The Coca-Cola 600 is the longest continuous Sprint Cup sponsorship in NASCAR. Coca-Cola is the Official Sparkling Beverage of NASCAR and has been involved with stock car racing for more than 40 years. A signature part of Coca-Cola’s innovative NASCAR program is the Coca-Cola Racing Family – a group of top drivers that includes Greg Biffle, Clint Bowyer, Jeff Burton, Denny Hamlin, Kevin Harvick, Bobby Labonte, Joey Logano, Ryan Newman, David Ragan, Elliott Sadler, Tony Stewart, and alumni drivers Kyle Petty, Michael Waltrip, Dale Jarrett and Ned Jarrett.

About The Coca-Cola Company

The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is the world’s largest beverage company, refreshing consumers with nearly 500 sparkling and still brands. Along with Coca-Cola, recognized as the world’s most valuable brand, the Company’s portfolio includes 12 other billion dollar brands, including Diet Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Coca-Cola Zero, vitaminwater, Powerade, Minute Maid, Simply and Georgia Coffee. Globally, we are the No. 1 provider of sparkling beverages, juices and juice drinks and ready-to-drink teas and coffees. Through the world’s largest beverage distribution system, consumers in more than 200 countries enjoy the Company’s beverages at a rate of nearly 1.6 billion servings a day. With an enduring commitment to building sustainable communities, our Company is focused on initiatives that protect the environment, conserve resources and enhance the economic development of the communities where we operate. For more information about our Company, please visit our website at www.thecoca-colacompany.com.

About the USO

The USO (United Service Organizations) lifts the spirits of America’s armed forces and their families. We provide a touch of home to troops wherever they serve through centers at airports and military bases around the world, top quality entertainment and innovative programs and services tailored to meet the needs of troops and their families. The USO is not a government agency and relies on the generosity of the American people. The USO is also supported by Worldwide Strategic Partners AT&T Inc., BAE Systems, The Boeing Company, Clear Channel Communications, The Coca-Cola Company, Gallery Furniture, Lockheed Martin, Microsoft Corporation, Northrop Grumman Corporation, S & K Sales Co. and TriWest Healthcare Alliance. Other corporate donors, including the United Way and Combined Federal Campaign (CFC-11381), have joined millions of individual donors to support the USO. For more information, please visit www.uso.org.

- Charlotte Motor Speedway, Press Release

Watkins Glen International

In addition to his honorary duties, Coach Boeheim will watch the race with a limited number of S.U. hoops fanatics from the confines of one of WGI’s VIP hospitality areas.  Tickets for this special package start at $150 and include; weekend reserved seat, upscale food & beverage stations, guided garage tour, race day collectible as well as a chance to rub elbows with one of college basketball’s all-time greats.  Fans interested in this once-in-a-lifetime experience should call 888-356-7223 to place their order.  All of the proceeds of tickets purchased to this rare opportunity going towards The Jim and Juli Boeheim Foundation.

“I’m very excited about visiting The Glen in August and getting a trackside view of all the racing action during the Zippo 200,” said Coach Boeheim. “I’ve always been a great admirer of WGI and it’s a great way to spend a summer day. I’m extremely honored that Watkins Glen International, its staff and supportive fans are helping our communities by supporting The Jim and Juli Boeheim Foundation.”

Boeheim is one of the most legendary and successful coaches in NCAA college basketball history.  His 827 career victories have all come as the head coach of the Orange and ranks second on the all-time NCAA Division I wins list behind only Duke University coach Mike Krzyzewski.  Boeheim’s accomplishments as SU head coach is almost too extensive too list and very few have ever been matched.  The highlight is undoubtedly the national championship he brought to Syracuse in 2003 following his team’s win against Kansas in the title game of the NCAA Tournament.  His other achievements include three appearances in the National Championship game, three Final Four appearances, four appearances in the Elite Eight, advancing to the Sweet Sixteen 15 times, and being selected for the NCAA Tournament an incredible 27 times.  Boeheim has led his teams to eight Big East regular season championships, claimed five titles in the Big East tournament, has been named Big East Coach of the Year four times, and received both the Associated Press college coach of the year and the Naismith college coach of the year awards in 2010.

Tickets for the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen, August 5-8, are on sale now!  Fans can take advantage of advanced sale prices and new options by calling the Watkins Glen International ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or logging on to the official website, www.TheGlen.com.

- Watkins Glen International, Press Release

Laila Ali

Ali is a spokesperson for the SUBWAY® Fresh Fit for Kids campaign. The movement is designed to encourage children to lead an active, healthy lifestyle by getting the proper amount of exercise and fueling them with healthier SUBWAY® meal options.

The daughter of all-time boxing great Muhammad Ali will work in conjunction with Sperber in welcoming fans, drivers, and teams to Phoenix for the first official night race of the 2010 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series season. In addition, Ali will say the most famous words in racing, giving the command of: “Gentlemen, start your engines!”

“I really appreciate the opportunity to be part of such an exciting event with my friends at SUBWAY,” said Ali. “This will be my first NASCAR race at Phoenix International Raceway and I look forward to being there with my fellow Famous Fans of SUBWAY, Carl Edwards and Jared Fogle.”

As one of the era’s most recognized female fighters and a past IBA, WIBA, and IBWF Super Middleweight champion, Ali holds a career record of 24-0, with 21 wins by knockout – a stretch of unmatched ring success dating back to 1999.

In addition to her career as an athlete, Ali has also appeared as a competitor on ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” and as the co-host (with Hulk Hogan) of NBC’s “American Gladiators.”

Tickets for the April NASCAR event weekend at Phoenix International Raceway are available now by calling 1-866-408-RACE (7223) or visiting www.phoenixraceway.com. Be a part of it all at PIR!

- Phoenix International Raceway, Press Release

Buddy Baker

Baker, the winner of the Old Dominion 500 at Martinsville Speedway, has been named Grand Marshal for the Goody’s 500 at Martinsville Speedway.

“I’m so honored by this. When you think of NASCAR, you think of Martinsville,” said Baker, who has stayed close to the sport since retiring in 1992 as a TV and radio commentator.  He currently can be heard on Sirius Radio. “This is like when I got my invitation to go into the International Motorsports Hall of Fame … it knocked my socks off.”

“We are thrilled to have Buddy Baker join our “Old School” fan celebration.  We are proud to have been a part of the roots of NASCAR with our Goody’s Headaches Powders,” said Steve Kapur, brand manager for Goody’s. “Fans attending the Goody’s 500 at Martinsville will be treated to an immersion in “Old School” racing. They will have the opportunity to hear Buddy and other greats of our sport at a Goody’s Fan Forum on Saturday evening and even meet several of the greats at the Goody’s Fast Relief Zone on Sunday morning.”

Baker was known as a speed demon during his career, a master of the long, fast tracks. In 1970 he became the first person to top 200 mph on a closed course, a feat he accomplished at Talladega Super Speedway. He went on to win four times at Talladega and in 1980 captured the Daytona 500.

But the 1979 victory on Martinsville’s short, .526-mile layout remains a milestone in his career.

“As good as Bobby Allison was, he never won at Martinsville. He told me one time that the Martinsville win was something I should be proud of and I told him not to worry…I was plenty proud of it,” recalled Baker. “It’s kind of like when I won at Darlington. It’s not all about the car at either one of those places. It’s about 50 percent car and 50 percent driver.”

Baker admits he had some coaching the day before his Martinsville win that helped him make the trip to victory lane.

“Before the race ever started, I sat down with Junior Johnson. I said ‘what am I doing wrong. I’m not getting around this race track and I’ve got all the horsepower in the world’,” Baker remembered. “He said ‘you’re running too hard. He said back off earlier and don’t get into it so soon.’ I went back out and did what he said and I was the quickest out there.”

He put crowd-favorite Richard Petty a lap down early in the race, and the two raced side-by-side for much of the afternoon as Petty tried to get his lap back.

“I got Richard a lap down and we must have raced 210 laps side-by-side. The caution would come out and I’d beat him back to the start-finish line,” said Baker. “Every time I went down the backstretch, all of his fans let me know I was number one.”

Baker came close to two more wins at Martinsville. In 1974 head had a straight-away lead over eventual winner Earl Ross when his brakes went away. Later in his career he was leading during a rain delay when a tire went flat as his car sat still on the track.

“I had Ross beat, but I just used my brakes up. I was going so fast I used them up. You know your brakes are gone when you have to pump them coming out of a turn,” Baker said.

Tickets for the Goody’s Fast Pain Relief 500 on Sunday, March 28, the Kroger 250 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race on Saturday, March 27 and the Duracell Battery Kroger Pole Day on Friday, March 26 are on sale and can be purchased by calling 1.877.RACE.TIX. Tickets may also be purchased online at www.racetickets.com.

Tickets for the Goody’s Fast Pain Relief 500 begin at just $25.

- Martinsville Speedway, Press Release

Andy Garcia

San Bernardino County, Calif. – (Feb. 19, 2010)

As Grand Marshal, Garcia will give the command, “Gentlemen, Start Your Engines,” to the 43-car field of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.  The event will be televised at noon on FOX.

“I am honored to be asked to be the Grand Marshal,” said Garcia.  “I am anticipating what will prove to be an exhilarating day.”

The Emmy, Academy Award and Golden Globe-nominated Garcia (Ocean’s Eleven, Twelve and Thirteen), stars in the upcoming comedy film City Island, with Julianna Margulies (“The Good Wife”), Steven Strait (10,000 BC), Dominik García-Lorido (The Lost City), Ezra Miller (“Californication”), Alan Arkin  (Little Miss Sunshine) and Emily Mortimer (Shutter Island).

Set in a quaint fishing community on the outskirts of New York City, City Island is a hilarious and touching tale about a family whose comfortable co-existence is upended by surprising revelations of past secrets and present day lies. Winner of the prestigious Audience Award at the 2009 Tribeca Film Festival, City Island spins a web of misrepresentations, misinterpretations and misunderstandings into a smart and charming comedy about a family that stops at nothing to avoid the truth.

ABOUT AUTO CLUB SPEEDWAY

Be a part of history when Danica Patrick makes her West Coast NASCAR debut in the Stater Bros. 300 NNS event on Saturday, Feb. 20 for as low as $30.   Then come back for the West Coast Premiere of NASCAR – the Auto Club 500 NSCS event on Sunday, Feb. 21, for as low as $35, to witness four-time consecutive NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Champion Jimmie Johnson attempt his record breaking fifth win at Auto Club Speedway.

With free admission for children 12 and under in effect for events on Friday and Saturday of race weekend, families experiencing Auto Club Speedway can also take advantage of free parking, bring in their own food, or partake in the unbelievable menu items on site as well as other cost-savings opportunities while enjoying a full weekend of entertainment and fun at the Speedway’s Opportunity, California FanZone.

For more information or to purchase tickets to the West Coast Premiere of NASCAR at Auto Club Speedway call 1-800-944-RACE (7223) or visit www.autoclubspeedway.com and be part of NASCAR history in Southern California.

- Auto Club Speedway, Press Release