NASCAR is not a sport known for diversity. At all. Since its creation in 2004, the NASCAR Drive for Diversity program has sought to distance the league from its racist reputation. 18 minority college athletes from all over the country received invitations to the first-ever NASCAR Drive for Diversity Pit Crew national combine in Concord, North Carolina, May 26-27. The combine is designed to identify, coach, train and develop minority athletes who possess the skill, ability and attitude to be a successful pit crew member in one of the three NASCAR national series.
The athletes performed a series of drills during which their strength, agility, stamina, and footwork was assessed by veteran pit coach and Rev Racing Director of Athletic Performance, Phil Horton, who has worked with NASCAR for 19 years. Rev Racing is headquartered in Concord, North Carolina, and is owned by Max Siegel. NASCAR Drive for Diversity, or D4D, is operated by Rev Racing.
To select the participants, D4D held scouting events at six universities earlier this year. Out of the 18 participants, 10 will receive offers to relocate to North Carolina and officially train to become masters of pit road. Over 25 D4D graduates competed in a NASCAR national series last season.
A former strength coach for the Milwaukee Bucks, Coach Horton feels that the racist undertones of NASCAR are more stereotypical than realistic. He states, “There are no obstacles keeping minorities out of the sport.” He also expresses that NASCAR is talent driven and physical ability coupled with focus determines the success of an individual much like any other sport.
D4D graduate and current Roush Fenway Racing pit crew member, Richie Williams has been in the sport since 2009 when his former Appalachian State University football teammate introduced him to Coach Horton. As a jackman, he cites the adrenaline rush as one of the most rewarding aspects of the sport.
Football players are usually the target of pit crew recruitment, according to Hendricks Motor Sports coaches on site to evaluate the talent. However, basketball and track and field were represented at the combine as well.
Flip the page for photos and videos, as well as a list of the participants.