Staff Sgt. Heath Calhoun (ret.) has been named the grand-prize winner of the annual Crown Royal® “Your Name Here” 400 contest, in which online voters vie to elect an exemplary fan whose name is then given to the 2010 Crown Royal Military 400 NASCAR race. The race will be run on May 1.
Photograph courtesy of Hanger Prosthetics & Orthotics.
Calhoun, who was awarded both the Purple Heart and the George C. Lang Award for Courage, lost both legs in Iraq but has gone on to help other amputees move forward with their lives. He is also a member of the U.S. Disabled Ski Team and is a Paralympic hopeful. Calhoun lives in Clarksville, Tennessee, and was chosen from a group of five military finalists who were nominated by their friends, family, or fellow soldiers for their ability to demonstrate the core values of the military in performing a selfless act that made them a hero. According to Crown Royal, Calhoun’s online nomination profile detailed his determination and ability to inspire others to live their lives to the fullest despite their injuries.
“Words cannot describe what it means to be chosen by the fans for this unbelievable experience,” Calhoun said. “Not only do I get to live out one of my dreams, but I get a chance to represent all the military that serve our country. I look forward to working with Crown Royal in all their efforts to promote responsible drinking to the millions of NASCAR fans, as well as the upcoming race at Richmond International Raceway.”
“The Crown Royal team was overwhelmed by the heroism of each and every service member who entered the Your Name Here contest, and we are honored to have this opportunity to thank them for their service to our country,” said Rob Mason, senior brand manager, Crown Royal. Track President Doug Fritz said, “For the past several years, through Crown Royal, we have had very deserving grand-prize winners who have their namesakes on our spring NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway. This year is no exception, as Heath Calhoun has demonstrated what it is to be a champion.”
The “Heath Calhoun 400” name will be incorporated into all official race logos and merchandise. In addition, Calhoun will take part in pre-race festivities at Richmond International Raceway and participate in the trophy presentation to the race winner in Gatorade Victory Lane. During the race weekend, he will receive VIP accommodations for himself and a guest.
