NASCAR Timeless Tradition: In the world of motorsports, where speed and adrenaline often take center stage, NASCAR stands out for its enduring commitment to tradition and faith. In a time when many sports have moved away from religious ceremonies, NASCAR continues to uphold its deeply rooted practice of opening each race with a heartfelt prayer. This age-old tradition, which traces its origins back to the very inception of the sport, keeps God at the core of NASCAR’s ethos.
Matt Humphrey, the director of NASCAR track communications, emphasized the importance of this ritual. “Honoring God and country prior to each NASCAR race is a nondenominational tradition that dates back to the founding of our sport,” he affirmed, underlining the timeless nature of this practice.
At the upcoming NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship race at Phoenix Raceway on November 4, 2023, Fr. Greg Menegay, parochial vicar at St. Clare of Assisi Parish in Surprise, Ariz., will lead the pre-race prayer. A devout NASCAR fan himself, Fr. Menegay expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, seeing it as a chance to shed a positive light on the Catholic Church. “I feel very honored to have been invited,” he shared, “and I feel it is an opportunity to shine a positive light on the Catholic church by having a priest offer a prayer before this event.”
This sacred moment, led by ministers and laypeople of various faiths, serves as a solemn request for protection for the competitors and fans alike. It’s a time to express gratitude for the remarkable opportunity to witness the finest racing on the planet, as Humphrey explained. The prayer is a unifying gesture, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds under the banner of faith.
The race itself promises intense competition, with four skilled drivers vying for the coveted title of the 2023 NASCAR Xfinity Series Champion. The victor, the first among these formidable contenders to cross the finish line, will be crowned the champion, marking the culmination of a season of hard-fought battles.
Fr. Menegay’s belief in the enduring faith of many in the country aligns with NASCAR’s dedication to this tradition. “I believe there are still many people in this country that have faith in God,” he affirmed, “and so I think there are many people that will appreciate a prayer before the race.”
As the race day approaches, the anticipation among fans grows. Phoenix Raceway, hosting its fourth consecutive NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship Race, is a venue steeped in racing history. It has been the heart of NASCAR Championship Weekend since 2020 and continues to be a premier motorsports destination in the Southwest since its establishment in 1964. On race day, the gates will open at 10 a.m., with the much-anticipated event commencing at 4 p.m. Fr. Menegay will lead the poignant pre-race prayer at 3 p.m., marking a moment of reflection and unity for all present.
Fans can get tickets for this historic occasion. Adult tickets cost $30, youth tickets $10, and parking is free. It’s a chance to see great racing and join a tradition that unites faith, community, and competitiveness.
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Our Reader’s Queries
Who started the burnout tradition in NASCAR?
Butch Miller is credited with performing the first modern burnout celebration in NASCAR history during a National Touring Series points-paying race. This race is often overlooked, despite being the closest finish to date in NASCAR. Miller’s celebration has since become a staple in the sport, with drivers performing burnouts after every win.
What are some sayings in NASCAR?
Some of the top quotes in racing include: “The true champion isn’t the one with the quickest car, but the one who never gives up.” “While finishing races is crucial, the act of racing itself is even more significant.” “My goal is to come out on top in every single race.”
What did NASCAR originally stand for?
Initially, the series was named National Stock Car Racing Association. However, it was discovered that a competitor had already claimed that name. As a result, mechanic Red Vogt suggested the name “National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing”, which was ultimately chosen as the official name of the organization.
What is the modern era of NASCAR?
RJR’s participation in the series and the decrease in the number of races from 48 to 31 per year in 1972 marked a significant turning point for NASCAR. This period is often referred to as the “modern era” of spectator sports.
