Get ready to rev up your engines and lace up your running shoes, because NASCAR’s Erik Jones is shifting gears in the most heartwarming way possible. For the first time ever, a speedway is transforming into a race track for a cause—and it’s all thanks to Jones’s passion for giving back. But here’s where it gets even more inspiring: this isn’t just about speed; it’s about community, compassion, and making a difference. On November 8, 2025, the Owosso Speedway in Ovid, Michigan, will host the inaugural Burnin’ Rubber 5K Run and Walk, an event that blends the adrenaline of racing with the joy of supporting meaningful initiatives.
Organized by the Erik Jones Foundation, this unique 5K isn’t just a race—it’s a movement. Jones, a Byron, Michigan native and driver of the No. 43 car for Legacy Motor Club in the NASCAR Cup Series, will personally lead participants to the starting line and join in the fun. But what’s truly remarkable is where the proceeds go. The event supports the foundation’s core missions: childhood literacy, early cancer detection, and animal welfare. And this is the part most people miss: Jones’s dedication to these causes isn’t just a recent development—it’s deeply personal.
Growing up, Jones was an avid reader, a passion he’s carried into his philanthropic efforts. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, he launched the #READwithErik program, reading dozens of children’s books to young fans at NASCAR races and on his Facebook page. In 2023, he even donated a book vending machine to his hometown elementary school in Byron. But here’s the controversial question: Can a race car driver truly make a lasting impact on education and health? Jones is proving that the answer is a resounding yes.
The event also honors Jones’s late father, Dave, who passed away from cancer in 2016, and his love for animals, including his German Shepherd, Oscar. The 5K course starts and finishes on the speedway itself, offering participants a chance to experience the thrill of the track while contributing to a greater good. Specially designed finisher medals and age group awards will be handed out, adding an extra layer of excitement.
Registration is $40 for adults until October 31, after which it increases to $45. Here’s the best part: children 12 and under can participate for free, making it a family-friendly event that’s hard to resist. A Kids Run will also take place at 11 a.m., giving young racers their moment to shine. Ready to join? Register online at Burnin’ Rubber 5K Run and Walk or explore sponsorship opportunities at Erik Jones Foundation.
This event isn’t just a race—it’s a testament to how one person’s passion can ignite change. But we want to hear from you: Do you think more athletes should use their platforms to drive social impact? Let us know in the comments below!
