NASCAR star Ricky Stenhouse Jr. traded in his helmet and fire suit for a set of golf clubs to help kids in need Thursday.

The 2023 DAYTONA 500 champion was participating in Speedway Children’s Charities Atlanta’s ‘Kids Win Golf Tournament,’ an annual event that raises money to support the charity’s mission of helping kids in need in the area. This year’s event was hosted by Heron Bay Golf and Country Club.

“I think this is the third golf tournament I’ve done with Speedway Children’s Charities, but the first one here in the greater Atlanta area,” said Stenhouse. “Combining EchoPark Speedway, one of my favorite racetracks, with golf and Speedway Children’s Charities and what they do for kids all across the state of Georgia – everything comes together really nicely for me and what I want to help with.”

To mix things up, some holes included challenges like fastest to the pin or longest drive – but on the seventh hole, each team got an assist from Stenhouse. A star of NASCAR’s Cup Series, Stenhouse is also an avid golfer, so in Thursday’s “scramble” competition, he teed off with each group to increase their chances of getting a competitive score.

“It’s awesome to sit here on a par three and keep hitting shots, but I also get to see each group come through and talk to them,” said Stenhouse. “They’re people from all over the place. When I’m at the racetrack, it’s all business and head-down, but here I’m super relaxed and hanging out with these people who are supporting Speedway Children’s Charities.

“It’s a good combination of a little bit of competition and a lot of fun supporting the charity.”

Proceeds from Thursday’s event will be distributed to organizations focused on children’s causes in Atlanta and the state of Georgia at SCC Atlanta’s annual grant ceremony. For more information about Speedway Children’s Charities or to learn how to volunteer or donate to your local chapter, visit www.speedwaycharities.org.