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Gaines, NASCAR get pushback for pro-Trump, pre-race prayer

Gaines, NASCAR get pushback for pro-Trump, pre-race prayer


Gaines, NASCAR get pushback for pro-Trump, pre-race prayer

The NASCAR Cup Series was at Circuit of the Americas near Austin, Texas over the weekend. As is their custom, they opened the race with prayer, delivered this day by girls' sports advocate Riley Gaines

It might not surprise you that a sport that features 3,200-pound cars going somewhere between 180 and 200 miles per hour around a two- or three-lane track and are frequently involved in accidents would start each event with prayer. Former NCAA champion swimmer and girls sports advocate Riley Gaines did the honors at the track known as COTA on Sunday.

She was blunt and to the point.

“Dear Heavenly Father, we gather today with gratitude for your mercy that we do not deserve and the sacrifice of your Son who was sent to earth to conquer death, hell, and the grave.”

She did pray for safety.

“Lord we ask for your protection for all drivers, staff, families, and fans alike.”

Then Gaines (shown at a rally for girls sports below) approached the Creator not only for those attending the race but also for the president and his cabinet. 

“Heavenly Father, bless President Donald J Trump, his Cabinet and all of our leaders, that they may seek your guidance in all decisions. If this is done, we will never be wrong, and America will be made great again.”

You heard the cheers there. Some media outlets reported that fans were "fuming."

The Daily Mail in its Sunday coverage listed reactions from several X accounts that were critical of Gaines and NASCAR after she mentioned Trump in the prayer.

Gaines closed the prayer with a gentle plea to race fans.

“May today, and every day lead us to the ultimate finish line; meeting you at the pearly gates.”