LPGA Golf legend, Annika Sorenstam and multi platinum entertainer, film and TV actor Trace Adkins have been handed honorary roles for next weekend’s 2023 NTT IndyCar Series season-opening Firestone Grand Prix of St Petersburg presented by RP Funding.
Sorenstam, who last month announced she has partnered with Don Cusick, Cusick Motorsports and Dreyer and Reinbold Racing’s entry for the 107th running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge on May 28 with Stefan Wilson at the wheel of the No.24 Chevrolet will give the command and wave the green flag to start the race said:
I’m excited to be the grand marshal of the first INDYCAR race of the year in St. Petersburg to help kick off both the racing season and Women’s History Month. “For my entire life, golf has been a vehicle that’s helped shape me on and off the course. I can’t wait to see the cars speed around a different type of course through downtown St. Pete! Also, I’m looking forward to getting back to nearby Pelican Golf Club in Belleair later this year to host the best LPGA players in the world at The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican.”
Trace Adkins will perform the national anthem as part of the pre-race ceremonies and speaking about the news he stated:
It is always a distinct honor to perform our national anthem at any event, but it’s an extra thrill to kick off the start of the Firestone Grand Prix. “As a longtime auto racing fan, I look forward to attending the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.
Adkins has previously been the voiceover for Firestone TV commercials.
Speaking about the news, Kim Green, co-owner, chairman and CEO of Green Savoree Racing Promotions, organizers of the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding stated:
We are honored to have such accomplished performers in their respective fields joining us at the 19th annual Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding. “Annika is the greatest female golfer to ever play the game, and Trace is a country music icon. We are thrilled to have them both be a part of this marquee event and add to the pre-race excitement next weekend as we kick off a new NTT INDYCAR SERIES season.”
Tickets for the season-opening Firestone Grand Prix of St Petersburg presented by RP Funding are still available by clicking here.