Coughlin heading to heart of NASCAR to promote drag racing

DELAWARE, Ohio -- Four-time world champion drag racer Jeg Coughlin Jr. will lead a contingent of NHRA professionals deep into the heart of NASCAR Country at this weekend's Coca-Cola 600 in Charlotte to promote the inaugural NHRA Carolinas Nationals, to be held Sept. 11-14 at zMax Dragway at Concord, N.C.

"I always try to take in a few NASCAR races each year as a fan," Coughlin said. "JEGS is a contingency sponsor in that series and Kenny Wallace and Kevin Harvick are part of Team JEGS so we go and support them when our schedule allows.

"It'll be a treat to show the assembled media a little more into our world. I was there for the unveiling when our friends Bruton and Marcus Smith announced the new drag strip and I can't wait to see how construction is progressing. You just know that whatever Bruton does, it's going to be spectacular."

After their tour of the new track, the NHRA visitors will donate their specially-designed hardhats to Smith's Speedway Children’s Charities organization for a future fundraiser. They will then sign autographs for NASCAR fans and mingle with the media for interviews. Coca-Cola representatives also have several activities planned for the weekend.

"As we've all seen over the last several years on the NHRA side, everything the Coca-Cola Company does is first class," Coughlin said. "This is one of their big events and I'm sure it will be memorable. We've got a full slate of activities and I even plan on getting out on a boat and having a little fun with some friends. I just love the Charlotte area. I'm happy just driving around and seeing the sites. I always enjoy my time there."

Coughlin anchors a breakaway group of four drivers that have managed to separate themselves from the pack in the POWERade Pro Stock championship points. He is currently 31 points, or a round and a half of elimination action, behind the leader.

Victor Cagnazzi Racing, which owns Coughlin's JEGS.com Chevrolet Cobalt entry, is located in the Charlotte suburb of Mooresville.