MARTINSVILLE, Va. – Monday’s postponed STP 500 is much more than just a Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series race for JJ Yeley.
A Saratoga County (Ny.) family is showing its love for their recently deceased daughter by sponsoring Yeley’s No. 55 Premium Motorsports Chevrolet in the fifth Cup race of 2018.
The parents and siblings of Angela Dean, who died of a heroin overdose earlier this year in Moreau, Va. are using Martinsville Speedway to bring awareness to the addiction.
Yeley’s car has been wrapped with her name, birthdate and date of passing. Other decals on the car are urging viewers of the race and attendees to help raise overdose awareness while asking people to text in donations to help the family raise money for a detox and treatment center in the Glens Falls (Ny.) area.
“I am excited to have Adirondack Tree Surgeons back on board with me at Martinsville Speedway this weekend,” said Yeley. “They’ve been a partner of mine for a couple years, both in NASCAR and on dirt.
“This weekend, we are running a special paint scheme in honor of Angie Dean, Adirondack Tree Surgeons owners, Phil & Judy Viger’s daughter, who passed in January, due to an overdose.
“Even though the tragic situation, the Viger Family wants to help raise awareness on the Overdose epidemic in America. They are raising money to help fund Angie’s House, a detox center for women.
“Any support from the NASCAR community and fans is greatly appreciated.”
Those wishing to contribute can text “GIVE” to 518.412.4103 to pledge a donation.
With qualifying canceled due to inclement weather, Yeley will make his first Cup start of 2018 from 38th.
The 41-year-old Yeley will compete in his 15th Cup race at the 0.526-mile famed paperclip and his 259th Cup race overall.
Follow Chris Knight on Twitter @Knighter01.
