When race fans think of classic Mark Martin, many think of his iconic Valvoline paint scheme throughout the 90s. He’s one of the true legends of NASCAR, and his legacy continues today through his charity work.

Needless to say, Valvoline is excited to announce that we will be teaming back up with Mark Martin for the Race For Hope 74 at Batesville Motor Speedway on September 25-29.

“We are excited that Valvoline has come on board to be a part of our race,” said Martin. “Valvoline and I have rekindled our legendary relationship by helping children and families in need and supporting the grassroots racing community while doing it.”

“Mark is a big part of Valvoline’s rich motorsports heritage”, said Travis Montgomery, head of Valvoline Sports & Entertainment.  “We’re thrilled to be working together again and to support such a great cause as the Race for Hope.”

In its inaugural running in 2017, the Race For Hope 74 drew an incredible 107-car field of IMCA Modified drivers from across the country. With a year under his belt, Martin looks forward to growing this event into the premier race for IMCA Modifieds. 

“My vision for this race is to make it the Daytona 500 of IMCA Modifieds,” said the 2017 NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee. “Since the race in September, I’ve spent time working on this race almost every single day. It’s really taken a leap forward in year two, and we hope to continue that trend every year going forward.”

There are several factors that separate the Race For Hope 74 from other major events, but the biggest may be that the event is structured for the racers.

“I really like to use every opportunity I can to promote these racers,” continued Martin. “I want to help them get recognized by fans, or by people that might not normally get to know them, through the contacts I have in motorsports. We take really good care of the racers. We host the teams for lunch and hang out with them every day at the track.”

A portion of the ticket sales of the Race For Hope 74 goes to the Mark and Arlene Martin Hope for Arkansas Foundation. The foundation assists children across the state of Arkansas with an emphasis on Batesville and Independence County. The 74-lap, $20,000-to-win finale, pays homage to Martin’s first race at Batesville Motor Speedway in 1974.

The 2018 edition of the Race For Hope 74 is set for September 25-29 at Batesville Motor Speedway.  Make sure to tune in for a live broadcast on IMCA.TV. For more information, visit raceforhope74.com.