Iconic racing entity relies on energy for Michigan event
Children, communities benefit
May 15, 2024
Engines are revving.
Hearts are pounding.
Adrenaline is pumping and excitement mounting.
That’s par for the course–-or the track–-for those testing their mettle at Michigan International Speedway near Jackson, MI.
Since the first Daytona 500 in 1959, legions of fans follow the pastime of stock car racing. They know the three drivers (Richard Petty, Dale Earnhardt and Jimmie Johnson) who each have won seven championships with the National Association of Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR), the pinnacle of the sport. Many also realize Danica Patrick holds multiple female driver records.
What many might not realize is the role Enbridge’s Line 5 in the Straits of Mackinac has on the track.
The crude oil and natural gas liquids transported safely each day through Line 5 provide the fuel, and also help in the manufacture of the racing cars and the paint used in their exterior design. Product from Line 5 also is essential to making the helmets, protective goggles and fire-resistant clothing drivers wear. The NASCAR Cup Series will make its annual stop at Michigan International Speedway on Aug. 17 with the FireKeepers Casino 400.
“The light crude oil from Line 5 is turned into energy for cars, planes, and more than 6,000 products. The pipeline plays an important role in our lives every day.”
—Paul Meneghini, Enbridge manager of community engagement in Michigan
“When we share that Line 5 touches lives well beyond providing energy, NASCAR is a good example,” said Paul Meneghini Enbridge’s manager of community engagement in Michigan.
“Stock car racing is a sport that millions follow, and most fans naturally are focused on the thrill of the event, not necessarily what is in the background that helps bring it to fruition.”
On the third Friday in May, known as NASCAR Day, the NASCAR Foundation directs its energy to championing the cause of children’s health through its Speediatrics Fun Day Festival series to benefit children's care units across the U.S. Held in 14 racing communities, Speediatrics events promote healthy lifestyles of children and culminate in a NASCAR-themed field day.
The NASCAR Foundation will partner with the Salvation Army Jackson Corps to host a Speediatric Fun Day Festival on Aug. 16 in the Lower Peninsula’s Jackson County.
This year, Friday, May 17, marks NASCAR Day.
“Beyond a shared passion for the sport, drivers and fans demonstrate a mutual commitment to improving the lives of children,” said Meneghini. “That is a winning lap for children and their families throughout Michigan.”
