Self-made cooking sensation Paula Deen described the race fans she'd met at Bristol Motor Speedway in just her first few hours inside the track as delightful, saying "I feel like the people who enjoy this sport... they is my people!"
Deen, host of a number of shows on the Food Network, held a press conference shortly after her arrival in East Tennessee. She will be the Grand Marshal of the Food City 250, while her husband Michael will be the Honorary Starter for the Friday night race and her son Bobby will ride in the pace car.
The silver-haired southerner told reporters and photographers that she planned to do alot of eating during her short time at BMS and that she wanted to sample track food, relaying that she was overwhelmed with the beauty of the area, saying, "This is God's country."
Deen was talking cryptically about what she called an 'exciting upcoming project for syndicated programming' when she learned that NASCAR legend Bobby Allison was in the press room. She let out a high-pitched giggle of delight and shouted, "Where's Bobby Allison?!" to find him in the crowd.
The driver, who was named one of NASCAR's 50 Greatest Drivers in 1998, made his way to where Deen was speaking for a hug and warm greeting. Deen told Allison, "Thank you for all the pleasure you've brought to the fans of this sport."
The two shared several laughs and a short conversation about Bristol Motor Speedway before Allison confessed to her that he'd stopped by her restaurant in Savannah some time ago, but left because it was too long of a wait. Deen promised him that wouldn't happen again if he stopped by a second time.
Deen talked with reporters about her excitement being part of the pre-race ceremonies, saying she'd already asked if she could do it again next year. She owns and operates "The Lady and Sons" restaurant with her sons in Savannah and has published five cookbooks.
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement