NASCAR WCUP: Schrader among many drivers with special tribute this weekend

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

September 20, 2001

Schrader's Thoughts On The American Flag Paint Scheme...

"When a sponsor steps up and does something like "M&M's" has done with the paint scheme this weekend at Dover, you know it is really sincere. I thought putting the flag on the car was pretty neat, but when they elected to take off all their logos...that is pretty big step for anyone in our sport. But that is just the way the people at "M&M's" are. They wanted to do a special tribute for all of the victims and their families and I think this is a really neat way to show their respect and support."

Schrader's Dover Highlights...

Electing to make a bold statement...but with no words, "M&M's"® Chocolate Candies this weekend at Dover has removed its familiar logo, "M" Characters and candy pieces from the No. 36 Pontiac replacing them instead with an American Flag. All associate sponsors of the No. 36 (Pontiac, Valvoline, Mighty Auto Parts and Call-N-Carry) elected to join forces and remove their decals as well. The flag -- which waves front to back on the car -- is accompanied only by the number 36.

In addition to the American Flag paint scheme, the phone number for the American Red Cross (1-800-Give Now) is also located on the television panel to gain awareness for the relief efforts of the American Red Cross. Additionally, the "M&M's"® Racing Team will make a donation to the American Red Cross disaster relief fund.

The "M&M's"® Racing Team spent Tuesday at Kentucky Speedway for a rescheduled test date that was cancelled due to inclement weather earlier this year. Schrader said the test was to not only prepare for Kansas, but also to compare some different cars and setups.

Even though the Winston Cup circuit did not run last weekend in New Hampshire, Schrader kept himself busy running in the Midwest. Schrader raced at Belleville, Ill., Friday night and at The Mile in Springfield, Ill., on Sunday. Saturday night at Schrader's track in Pevely, Mo., I-55 Raceway paid tribute to the nation's victim in its own way. The track kept the lights off after qualifying and all the crews lined the track carrying candles during the national anthem.

Text provided by Laura Ehret

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