Danica Patrick to Race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in June
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Jerry Gappens lobster gift to Danica Patrick worked to lure her to the New England 200 on Saturday, June 26! Photo: NHMS/HHP Images
It is official! Danica Patrick, one of the most popular drivers in motorsports, confirmed today that she will be racing in the NASCAR Nationwide Series New England 200 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway on June 26.
Last month, Jerry Gappens, the executive vice president and general manager of the speedway, flew to JR Motorsports in Mooresville, N.C. with over 20 pounds of fresh lobster for Patrick and her crew. This was an enticement to have New Hampshire on her limited racing schedule with Dale Earnhardt, Jr.'s team.
Today, Danica gave the speedway a gift by adding the New England 200 to her 2010 NASCAR schedule.
"This is great news for our fans here in New England," said Gappens. "She is a talented racecar driver and a major sports personality that will bring the national spotlight to the largest sports and entertainment facility in New England.
"Since she didn't eat the lobster, I will have to find an appropriate thank you gift for Danica, perhaps a pair of high heeled Christian Louboutin's!"
From her start in karting in 1992 to her win at the 2008 Indy Car Series race at the Twin Ring Motegi circuit in Japan, Patrick has always been a top competitor.
She will be the sixth woman to attempt to qualify for a NASCAR Nationwide Series event at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. Tina Gordon (2004), Tammy Jo Kirk (2003), Patty Moise (1990, 1996, 1998), and Shawna Robinson (1992, 1993) have qualified and raced at the speedway. Kim Crosby (2005) did not qualify in her attempt to make the field at "The Magic Mile."
Tickets for the NASCAR Nationwide Series New England 200 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway start at just $25. For more information, please visit us online at
www.nhms.com or call our Ticket Hotline at (603) 783-4931.
Will be interesting to see how well she qualifies. It's her kind of track.
Flat.
