Gaffney, Sc. – Ross Chastain will have a special red, white and blue paint scheme, with a touch of watermelon, for the Subway Firecracker 250 at Daytona International Speedway. The National Watermelon Association, in conjunction with Chastain’s season long sponsors Watermelon.org and Helena Chemical, want to show their support for America’s troops with a special patriotic paint scheme for the July 4th race.
“What goes together better than the Fourth of July and watermelons?” says Chastain. “I’ve been excited about this race all year, and I am so thankful that the NWA and JD Motorsports have helped make this car a reality. Growing up hearing my grandparents’ stories about serving overseas makes this so special to me, and watermelon farming is my family’s livelihood. So having both on the car is perfect.”
The JD Motorsports with Gary Keller team is proud to carry the colors of the American Flag on the No. 4 Chevrolet.
“We can’t thank the NWA enough for supporting us this weekend with the stars and stripes on the car. Having had friends and family members that have served in the US military, this means a lot to me,” said team owner, Johnny Davis. “Plus, adding the watermelon to the car makes it that much better! This is one of my favorite paint schemes that we have had this year, and it is sure to stand out on the track.”
“When we had the opportunity to design a race car that would carry two of the most iconic symbols of Americana together, we jumped at it”, said Bob Morrissey of the NWA. “We will celebrate America and Watermelon together on our country’s birthday! It will be a great ride, and race. So go out and buy more watermelons, and thank our military for their service that provides the freedom that we all enjoy!”
I do have to share with you a secret advantage – – a big advantage that no other driver will have! Ross will have a co-pilot for the Daytona race! The Chastain Family and JD Racing asked to honor the life of our granddaughter, Gabrielle, and bring her memory along for the ride as his passenger, complete with her name on the roof of the passenger door. Our Family has been blessed by this, and it has touched our hearts forever! Thank you All!
The National Watermelon Association, Inc. is a voluntary, membership trade association dedicated to making a positive difference in the business and lives of its Watermelon family – those involved in the growing, grading, handling, transporting, distributing, and selling of watermelon. The National Association has members in over 30 states, Canada and Central America and is comprised of regional chapters in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois-Indiana, Maryland-Delaware, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, and the Western United States.
Source: The National Watermelon Association