Day Two – Big Names support the Foundation

Wow!  Day two at the Knoxville Nationals. And I thought Day One was hot! Day two was all about survival. They told us the heat index was well over 110 degrees where our booth was. I believe them! While overall count was down the die-hard fans came out to see their favorite drivers and support the foundation.

A GREAT BIG thank you to the drivers that came out for the “Give a Donation, Get an Autograph”. We are so apprecitive of our Thursday signers: Shane Stewart, Brian Brown, Jason Sides, Lucas Wolfe, Brad Doty, Doug Wolfgang, Dave Blaney, Tony Bruce, Jr. and Erin Crocker Evernham for spending an hour with us throughout the afternoon. The fans came by in droves and would put money in the donation jars then ask for an autograph card or to take a photo with their favorite driver.

It was fun being on the other side – listening to the conversations between drivers and fans but also hearing the chit chat amongst drivers. We typically had two at a time. Current drivers would tell stories, discuss setups, mull over which tire was going to run best and what gear to run for time trials. Our retired drivers told great stories – on each other and themselves. There was a lot of laughter!

It is impressive for me to see drivers dig into their own pockets to pull out cash and donate to the foundation themselves. They, better than anyone, know what we are about and how the funds are raised and put to use.

It is also funto see so many Steve King shirts come through the area. I can’t help but smile when I see each one. I now recognize by face most of his die-hard fans and am inspired by their stories and continued support.

The racing action was spectacular Thursday night with Slammin’ Sammy beating them all to the line in a green, white, yellow, green, checkered finish!

Tomorrow – more of the same with autograph sessions but also a chance of rain!

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