'Gold Standard' Returning To Chicagoland Speedway

(The following release was provided by Chicagoland Speedway.)

JOLIET, IL -To celebrate National Anthem Day, Chicagoland Speedway announced the return of Jim Cornelison who will belt “The Star Spangled Banner” at the Magnificent Mile and a Half. Cornelison is better known as the “Gold Standard” for his iconic rendition of the ballad. His performance will headline Chicagoland Speedway’s patriotic tribute during the Stars and Stripes weekend June 28 – July 1.

“Jim Cornelison has become a revered tradition and integral part of our pre-race ceremonies over the years,” said Scott Paddock, President of Chicagoland Speedway. “Jim’s iconic voice is a perfect complement to the unparalleled pageantry and patriotism that NASCAR uniquely presents to the most loyal and passionate fan base in all of sports.”

Cornelison has belted out the National Anthem at Chicago-area events since 1996 and brought his talents to Chicagoland Speedway beginning in 2013. As the son of military parents, Cornelison uses his Live the Salute platform to showcase his patronage at sporting events and in everyday life.

“The National Anthem is a revered tradition among Chicagoans, especially among Chicago sports fans,” said Cornelison. “For this reason, it is a great honor to sing the Star Spangled Banner on the national platform presented before the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series playoffs at Chicagoland Speedway. Every year it has become more exciting as the fans have come to embrace being involved in the anthem.”

The Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series race at Chicagoland Speedway will take place July 1 as part of the four-race weekend June 28 – July 1. The weekend will kick off on Thursday, June 28 with the SCOTT® 150 ARCA Racing Series followed by NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Overton’s 225 under the lights on Friday night. On Saturday, June 30, the NASCAR XFINITY Series Overton’s 300 will hit the track as the precursor to Sunday’s Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Overton’s 400 showdown.

The complete 2018 NASCAR schedule at Chicagoland Speedway is as follows:

The Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Weekend

Thursday, June 28 SCOTT® 150 ARCA Racing Series

Friday, June 29 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Overton’s 225

Saturday, June 30 NASCAR XFINITY Series Overton’s 300

Sunday, July 1 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Overton’s 400

Image via Chicagoland Speedway