Motor Racing Digest

Posted By:  Anne-Marie Rhodes, follow @annemarierhodes

DAYTONA BEACH, FL-With it being the Superbowl of NASCAR today, it only makes sense that many celebrities have made their way here to celebrate this huge event.  Today NASCAR welcomes Martina McBride (National Anthem singer), Brad Paisley (concert performer), and the stars from the upcoming new Transformers movie, Dark of the Moon, Josh Duhamel and Victoria’s Secret model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.  Here are some quotes from their visits here in Daytona’s media center.

Josh Duhamel: “I love coming back to this race, I was thrilled to be asked to come back.

Josh Duhamel on is he a car geek? “My friends used to call me grandpa because I was a slow driver.  My wife would differ, she thinks I’m a little too crazy behind the wheel.”

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley: “I’ve been told to look out for a guy named Jr.”

Josh Duhamel: “I’m rooting for Jimmie Johnson since he hasn’t won anything in awhile.”

Martina McBride: ”It’s always such an honor to sing our National Anthem.”  McBride announced she will be returning to Daytona in July for a 60 minute concert before the race.

Martina McBride on what’s the biggest crowd you’ve sung in front of:” I think today might be it.”

Martina McBride: “There’s always a little bit of nerves when you sing the National Anthem, you want to do it justice.  It’s always a little bit nerve-wracking, I just want to do my best.

Brad Paisley: I’m absolutely excited about it (Daytona 500) as a race fan.

Brad Paisley: “Got a text from Jeff Gordon last night, the fact that I’ve struck up a friendship with him, that is mind blowing.”