DON'T TEXT AND DRIVE! Isn't that what we're all used to hearing when we reach for our cell phones behind the wheel? Maybe someone should tell that to NASCAR driver Brad Keselowski...
During the Daytona 500 Brad tweeted pictures showing his view of the fire. He was also answering questions from his followers while being parked behind the wheel, or walking around talking to other drivers. Questions like "Are you sitting in the car right now tweeting?" He answered, "Yes, but at least it's not a Port-a-Jon."
His goal was to peak at 200,000 followers. Correct me if I'm wrong Brad, but shouldn't your goal going into the race be to win the race, not just promote it? During downtime, shouldn't you be clearing your head, not facing it down toward your iPhone screen?
His tweeting sparked controversy as people thought he violated NASCAR policy. This wasn't the case. NASCAR was actually THRILLED with his tweeting! They loved it. Since NASCAR has been trying desperately lately to gain a younger fanbase, connecting with them through social media was the perfect way.
“He distinguished himself in being the poster child for an engaging athlete — the type of athlete that the fans really connect to in a multitude of ways,” said David Higdon, a Nascar spokesman.
NASCAR decided not to fine him. They even aggreed to let him keep his iPhone in his pocket for the rest of the season! It's ironic how in the MLB or NFL they are not allowed to use social media during a game, but in NASCAR it's allowed, and even encouraged.
(And just to update on my previous Blog post...Fox Sports racked in a record-breaking amount of viewers to ever tune it to watch the Daytona 500. Postponing the event was a success!)
In the meantime, Brad Keselowski may not be a top-10 driver, but he's certainly gained popularity!
Don't text and drive...but I guess tweeting and driving is okay?
-Sarah Kirk
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