As the NASCAR Cup Series season is winding town, some teams are buttoning up last minute deals to end the season on a high note.
Spire Motorsports announced on Friday that DECK Leadership will serve as the primary sponsor of the No. 77 for the final two races this season – at Martinsville Speedway this weekend, as well as the season finale at Phoenix Raceway next weekend.
Garrett Smithley was named the driver for the car this weekend at Martinsville.
DIVERSITY. EFFICIENCY. CULTURE. KINDNESS. ?@DeckLeadership is on board with us at @MartinsvilleSwy. ?#NASCAR | @GarrettSmithley pic.twitter.com/Su7HTLBHaT
— Spire Motorsports (@SpireMotorsport) October 30, 2020
DECK Leadership has its roots in NASCAR, being co-founded by long time NASCAR pit crew coaches Mike Metcalf, and Shaun Peet. The organization focuses on corporate leadership, diversity, and efficiency training. The company has worked with multiple corporations and teams including Michelin Tire, the Dallas Cowboys, and Novant Health.
Peet specifically was a member of multiple pit crews in NASCAR including Bill Davis Racing, Red Bull Racing, and Chip Ganassi Racing. While at Red Bull, he was a member of the winning team for the World Pit Crew Championship in 2008.
“This is a huge opportunity for DECK Leadership to partner with Spire Motorsports,” explained Metcalf. “Our brand is in its infancy, so this could prove to be a big momentum swing for us. Honestly, I’m probably going to tear up when the 77 makes its first lap. Our goal is to see people elevated over process. We know this is a small step in inspiring others to do the same. This shows that dreams still come true and kindness wins.”
In addition to DECK on the car, the co-founders also wrote a book together – “12 Second Culture”, a book that talks about the “timeless truths that translate into every work environment.” The book’s logo will be featured on the C-pillar of the car.
“I’ve known both Mike Metcalf and Shaun Peet for a long time and we’ve raced together for well over a decade,” said Spire Motorsports co-owner T.J. Puchyr. “Their collective commitment to leadership, efficiency and organizational improvement can’t be overstated. If you’ve ever met either of them, you’ll never forget the experience. Mike and Shaun’s attitudes are contagious. Meeting those guys is an experience like no other. They exude positivity and an energy that lifts everyone around them. As NASCAR continues to introduce diversity initiatives across the sport, Spire Motorsports is honored to partner with DECK Leadership for the final two races of the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series season.”
You can see the No. 77 DECK Leadership Camaro on track this weekend for the Xfinity 500 at Martinsville Speedway at 2:00 p.m. EST on NBC, and the NBC Sports app.
