Several members of the Racers for Christ team were on the grounds to pray with racers . One of them was Tammie Smith , seen here with Pro Mod hitter Travis “ The Carolina Kid ” Harvey .
A major event isn ’ t complete with a proper pre-race invocation and performance of the national anthem . Sylvie Valiente , a Florida-based recording artist , sang a moving rendition of the national anthem , while Racers for Christ chaplain Russ Elzy gave the invocation . WFO Radio ’ s Joe Castello hosted pre-race ceremonies before going to work on Masters Entertainment Group ’ s television coverage of eliminations .
Lonnie Grim , who is now known in his role as the NHRA national tech director , brought to the table his expertise in race operations with a specialty in the competition and technical departments .
After announcing the first three WSOPM events in Denver , legendary announcer Al Tucci returned to the announcer ’ s booth . He was joined by first-time WSOPM announcer Jason Galvin , known for his work on the NHRA national event circuit .
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