NASCAR DAY

NASCAR DAY

NASCAR Day is celebrated on the third Friday in May and recognizes the drivers, celebrities, corporate partners, media, and millions of fans. The day also celebrates a cause the NASCAR organization supports for children needing medical help. Start your engine and let's go for a ride to explore all things NASCAR!

#NASCARDay

In 2006, the NASCAR Foundation brought families together to support the cause of health and the lives of children across the whole country. Today, the observance kicks off a fundraising event dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children.

“We believe our greatest asset is the power and passion of our NASCAR fans: passion both for the sport and for giving back.  NASCAR Day is an annual celebration of this NASCAR spirit.”

Children who have long-term illnesses have anxiety about what is happening. Their hospital stay can be less stressful as each Speediatrics unit is designed to alleviate uneasiness.

The NASCAR Foundation is the leading charitable organization that works to improve the lives of children in the NASCAR community. They believe every child deserves a chance at a healthy life. By making children's health their main priority, the foundation helps make the medical needs of children their top priority.

Not So Common Fun Facts

• 1948: Red Byron wins the first NASCAR race driving a Ford.

• 1959: More than 41,000 fans attend the the first Daytona 500.

• 1963: Wendell Scott becomes the first African-American to win a NASCAR race.

• 1977: Janet Guthrie becomes the first woman to compete in the Daytona 500, qualifying 39th and finishing 12th.

• 2013: Danica Patrick becomes the first female to win a pole in NASCAR history.

HOW TO HELP ON NASCAR DAY

• Learn more about the NASCAR Foundation.

• Volunteer at a local event.

• Donate money to the organization.

• Show your support by posting #NASCARDay on social media.

A BRIEF HISTORY

The National Association of Stock Car Auto Racing NASCAR hosted its first race on February 15, 1948, in Daytona Beach. Since then, NASCAR's deep roots have raised their standards to the highest stock car auto racing in the United States. Within 10 months, they host a series of races and award the most successful racing car driver of the season the NASCAR Cup Series Drivers' Championship.

Betty Jane France received honors for founding the NASCAR Foundation in 2006. Her vision to permanently commit to supporting causes that benefit children's health was evident over time. Her vision would eventually lead to opening the renowned racing-themed Speediatrics children’s care units at Halifax Health in Daytona Beach and Homestead Hospital in South Florida. During this time, the Speediatrics Children’s Fund was also made available to provide medical assistance to families.

Betty Jane France has served NASCAR in one capacity or another for six decades. As the wife of Chairman and CEO, Bill France Jr, her involvement in the organization was constant and consistent. Serving as Executive Vice President for some time increased her passion to serve the community.

Unfortunately, Betty passed away in 2016. Her death has left a legacy NASCAR follows to this day.