One of Michigan’s most recognizable voices, radio host Paul W. Smith, will take on the role of honorary starter for the Pure Michigan 400 on August 19 at Michigan International Speedway.Smith is the morning drive-time host on News/Talk 760 WJR in Detroit. “I am honored to be asked to wave the green flag to start the Pure Michigan 400 at Michigan International Speedway,” Smith said.
Smith will also receive a pace car ride from NASCAR’s official pace car driver and attend the NASCAR Sprint Cup drivers’ meeting.
“Paul W. Smith is one of the great voices in Michigan radio, and he never misses an opportunity to showcase what we as a state have to offer,” said George Zimmermann, Vice President of Travel Michigan, part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “We are excited to have him serve as the honorary starter for the Pure Michigan 400 at Michigan International Speedway where we expect to have an exciting day of racing.”
Smith will join other notable dignitaries at MIS for the Pure Michigan 400, including Grand Marshal and recording artist Kid Rock.
On the air at WJR since 1996, Smith’s morning show has been consistently rated as the number-one radio program in metro Detroit. He has been dubbed, “the king of talk radio in Detroit” by the Wall Street Journal and was named “Best” morning show broadcast personality by the Michigan Association of Broadcasters in 2007 and 2009. He also hosts the weekly program Destination 313 and writes a column for the Detroit News.
Source: MEDC
