News

Actions

Jeff Blashill enjoys taking a ride around Michigan International Speedway

Posted at 2:39 PM, Aug 28, 2016
and last updated 2016-08-29 08:51:12-04

BROOKLYN, Mich. (WXYZ) -- As part of his Grand Marshal duties for the Pure Michigan 400, Red Wings head coach Jeff Blashill got to take a few laps around Michigan International Speedway Sunday morning.

"I can tell you, I did not drive," Blashill joked with reporters. "We're not to that point yet."

Blashill said the experience gives him even more respect for NASCAR drivers, whose top speeds at Michigan frequently reach the neighborhood of 220 miles per hour.

"To double the speed we were going, and with 40 other cars out there bumping and grinding, it was incredible to hit that turn and not feel the brakes."

Blashill made for a pretty quiet passenger as well.

"I didn't talk to my driver the whole time. I didn't want to distract him."