So I figured I’d try something new at the track last weekend. Been hearing whispers about folks doing funny NASCAR prayers before the green flag drops. Sounds wild, right? But heck, if it makes races more fun, why not give it a shot myself? Here’s how I went from skeptic to believer—no pun intended. Like, literally started scribbling these down on my pit pass envelope while waiting for practice laps.
Phase 1: Writing Down the Dumbest Prayers I Could Think Of
Right there in the grandstand, I grabbed a cold beer and just started brainstorming stuff that’d make my buddies snort-laugh. Didn’t overthink it—just let the ridiculousness flow. Like:
- “Lord, please let my driver win… or at least flip less than three times?”
- “Bless this carburetor to not crap out before lap 20. Amen.”
- “If anyone wrecks in Turn 4, let it not be my fantasy league pick. Thanks. You’re the best.”
Finished a whole list in ten minutes flat. Felt kinda like writing a bad birthday card, but hey, it was weirdly fun.
Phase 2: Testing ‘Em Mid-Race at Bristol
Saturday night under the lights, I leaned over and shouted the carburetor prayer to my neighbor. Dude spit out his soda. Then we BOTH started laughing our butts off when the No. 11 car blew his engine exactly on lap 19. Total coincidence? Probably. Hilarious? ABSOLUTELY. Even high-fived the guy.
Phase 3: Ranking the Reactions
Next day I walked around the tailgates asking strangers their top prayer picks. Turns out everyone’s got favorites! We ended up voting together on a folding chair. Top 5 winners:
- “God, let that caution flag come out just after my driver pits.” (Cheater’s prayer? Yes. Everyone giggled.)
- “Help me not get nacho cheese on my new shirt when my guy wrecks.” (Relatable suffering.)
- “Please don’t let Grandpa spill his moonshine if there’s a big wreck.” (Appalachian classic.)
- “Make my fantasy rival’s driver run outta gas on the last lap. Just once.” (Pure evil genius.)
- “Bless every burnout so I can smell burnt rubber from here.” (Poetic AND sensory.)
The Verdict? Way More Fun Than I Expected.
Look—I thought it’d just be dumb jokes. But honestly? Crackin’ these goofy prayers with strangers added a whole layer to the race weekend. Made grandstand neighbors feel like buddies. Turned boring yellow flags into giggle-fests. Made me realize NASCAR’s already full of drama… why not sprinkle some intentional humor on top? Try it next race. Worst case? You get weird looks. Best case? You make friends through shared sillyness. Either way, it’s a win.