Stars and Stripes spells r-e-l-i-e-f
By Anika Robertson, Turner Sports Interactive
January 25, 2002
10:49 AM EST (1549 GMT)
In the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, one fact remains -- the United States is still solidified as a country filled with pride and resilience.
Americans come from the most diverse heritage in the world, and our society reflects this. Just turn on any television, read a newspaper or better yet, walk outside your door.
And NASCAR racing is just one of the many American sports we celebrate. Yet it is one of the few where fans got a chance to directly show their support to help heal the country with their patriotism and generosity.
According to American Red Cross, the organization and its local chapters have received many contributions from NASCAR and NASCAR-related efforts in the past year. One of the latest offerings comes from M&M/MARS, Team Caliber, MB2 Motorsports, Winston Cup driver Ken Schrader, NASCAR, NASCAR.com/Turner Sports, Pontiac and USA Electronic Commerce Solutions.
They all agreed that the proceeds from the sale of the die-cast replica based on Schrader’s Stars and Stripes Pontiac paint scheme would be donated to the relief efforts.
This endeavor began just 12 days after the terrorist attacks at Dover Downs International Speedway, when Schrader’s No. 36 took to the track with a remarkable paint scheme. The car was stripped of all sponsor logos and adorned with the stars and stripes of our American flag.
The M&M’s Pontiac, owned by MB2 Motorsports, wanted to make a powerful statement to the world that Americans will band together, strong as ever.
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Ken Schrader at Dover
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"I felt very honored to be behind the wheel of the American flag at Dover," Schrader said. "When I was told M&M’s plan for the car, all I could think was what an incredible way to honor our country."
Scott Hudler, M&M’s brand communications manager, explained, "(The companies involved) agreeing to waive their royalties for the Stars and Stripes car was a great gesture and something that you don’t see that often in the business world."
William Clements, sponsorship manager of NASCAR, MasterFoods USA led the group that created the vision just a several days after the attacks.
"To be able to provide NASCAR fans with a way to show their patriotism while supporting the relief efforts of the American Red Cross is something that we were very proud and excited to offer," he said.
When a replica of Schrader’s Stars and Stripes No. 36 American Flag Red Cross Tribute car was made available for purchase on NASCAR.com for five weeks only, the orders poured in.
The cast-iron replica was created by Team Caliber as a Preferred Series 1:24 and sold for $55. This promotion ended on Dec. 2, 2001 and the total number of cars produced will be printed on the packaging.
"The money raised will help the Red Cross provide lifesaving disaster relief services in communities across America," said Skip Seitz, American Red Cross senior vice president of growth and integrated development.
Executive Vice President and General Manager of Turner Sports Interactive Drew Reifenberger explained. "This sales record shows that NASCAR.com store is a good resource in helping teams, drivers and sponsors accomplish their goals."
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