In the heart of American summer, two distinctly American pastimes—cornhole and NASCAR—came together for a cause that transcended sport. On July 4, 2025, the American Cornhole League (ACL) hosted its annual “Cornhole For A Cause” celebrity event in Richmond, Virginia, pairing top NASCAR Cup Series drivers with elite ACL professionals. The event was more than just a display of skill; it was a celebration of community, accessibility, and charity, broadcast live on ESPNU and watched by fans across the country.
What Is the American Cornhole League?
The American Cornhole League, founded in 2016, has rapidly become the global leader in professional, competitive, and recreational cornhole. What began as a backyard staple—tossing beanbags onto wooden boards—has evolved into a sport with official rules, televised tournaments, and a growing roster of professional players.
The ACL’s mission is simple but powerful: “Anyone can play, anyone can win.” This philosophy has been key to its success, attracting players of all ages and backgrounds. The league organizes a wide range of events, from local amateur competitions to national championships, and has even expanded internationally. The ACL’s presence on major sports networks like ESPN and CBS Sports has further solidified its status as a mainstream sport.
The 2025 “Cornhole For A Cause” Event
This year’s “Cornhole For A Cause” event was particularly special, coinciding with Independence Day festivities and bringing together two passionate fanbases—cornhole enthusiasts and NASCAR supporters. The event took place at the Richmond Raceway Complex, just a stone’s throw from the track where many of the participating drivers have made their mark.
Format and Charitable Impact
The format was straightforward yet impactful. Four NASCAR Cup Series drivers were paired with top ACL professionals to form teams. Each team competed in a single-elimination bracket, with the winning duo earning a $5,000 donation for the driver’s charity of choice. Fans watching at home and in person were encouraged to contribute additional donations, amplifying the event’s charitable reach.
The Teams and Their Charities
The 2025 lineup featured a compelling mix of racing talent and cornhole expertise:
Zane Smith & Devon Harbaugh
Charity: City of Refuge (Atlanta)
Zane Smith, known for his driving style and recent Cup Series successes, teamed up with Devon Harbaugh, one of the ACL’s most consistent professionals. Their chosen charity, City of Refuge, provides support and resources to families in crisis in Atlanta.Noah Gragson & Payton Haynes
Charity: High Fives Foundation
Noah Gragson, a fan favorite for his energetic personality, partnered with ACL rising star Payton Haynes. They played for the High Fives Foundation, which helps athletes recover from life-altering injuries.Austin Cindric & Tony Smith
Charity: Paralyzed Veterans of America
Austin Cindric, the 2022 Daytona 500 winner, joined forces with Tony Smith, a veteran pro in the cornhole circuit. Their team supported Paralyzed Veterans of America, an organization dedicated to empowering veterans with spinal cord injuries.Ross Chastain & Justin Stranger
Charity: Protect Your Melon
Ross Chastain, known as the “Watermelon Man” for his signature victory celebrations, teamed up with Justin Stranger. Their cause, Protect Your Melon, focuses on concussion awareness and prevention in youth sports.
The Event Experience
The event was a blend of lighthearted fun and fierce competition. NASCAR drivers, accustomed to the high-speed, high-pressure world of stock car racing, found themselves in a different kind of contest—one that required precision, patience, and a steady hand. The ACL professionals, meanwhile, showcased why cornhole has become a legitimate sport, sinking astring of “four baggers” (all four bags in the hole) and making clutch shots under pressure.
Fans in attendance enjoyed the festive atmosphere, complete with food trucks, live music, and interactive cornhole games. The event’s timing on July 4th added an extra layer of patriotism and community spirit, as families gathered to celebrate America’s birthday and support worthy causes.
Why Cornhole and NASCAR Make a Perfect Pair
On the surface, cornhole and NASCAR might seem worlds apart. One is a backyard game; the other, a billion-dollar motorsport. But both are deeply rooted in American culture and share a commitment to accessibility and community. NASCAR drivers are known for their approachability and connection with fans, and cornhole’s “anyone can play” ethos mirrors that spirit.
The partnership between the ACL and NASCAR is also a testament to the growing crossover appeal of both sports. Many NASCAR drivers and crew members play cornhole during race weekends to relax and bond with teammates. The “Cornhole For A Cause” event formalizes that connection, turning a casual pastime into a platform for charity and fan engagement.
The Impact
Beyond the fun and competition, the true winners of the event were the charities supported by each team. The $5,000 donations, combined with fan contributions, will help fund programs for veterans, injured athletes, families in need, and youth safety initiatives. The event also raised awareness for these causes, leveraging the star power of NASCAR drivers and the reach of the ACL’s broadcast partners.
News in Brief: NASCAR Drivers Play Cornhole For Charity
The 2025 “Cornhole For A Cause” event exemplifies the best of American sports—competition, camaraderie, and community impact. As the American Cornhole League continues to grow and NASCAR remains a staple of American motorsport, their partnership promises more memorable moments, both on the boards and on the track. For fans, it’s a reminder that whether you’re racing at 200 miles per hour or tossing a beanbag in the backyard, sports have the power to bring people together and make a difference.
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