When the green flag dropped at Bristol Motor Speedway on March 17, 2024, it didn’t just mark another Food City 500. It was the fourth time NASCAR’s finest have raced on the concrete oval on St. Patrick’s Day. The bullring’s history with the Irish holiday dates back to 1968 when David Pearson claimed victory. This was followed by Cale Yarborough in 1974 and Kasey Kahne in 2013. As NASCAR’s power couple Tony Stewart and Leah Pruett prepare for the racing season, many fans wonder if Pruett’s racing prowess might have roots in the Emerald Isle, especially with Bristol’s deep connection to St. Patrick’s Day racing.

The intersection of racing and heritage often creates compelling storylines. This coming with Bristol Motor Speedway proudly promoting its “Bristol four-leaf clover” tradition, questions about Pruett’s potential Irish background have surfaced among the NASCAR faithful. The NHRA drag racing star, who married three-time NASCAR Cup champion Tony Stewart in 2021, has certainly demonstrated the fighting spirit often associated with Irish competitors. But don’t worry, that’s not the basis of our analysis.

However, despite the timely connection to Bristol’s St. Patrick’s Day race, there is no documented evidence of Leah Pruett having Irish heritage. Born to Ron and Linda Pruett on May 26, 1988, in Redlands, California, Pruett’s background appears to be primarily American without specific ties to Irish ancestry mentioned in any available profiles or interviews. But, speaking etymologically, her last name “Pruett” does seem to carry an Irish history. Even if we look into the evolution of the American population, the Great Irish Famine in the 19th century sailed the wave of Irish immigrants to America for a better life. That incident could connect dots backwards to reveal Leah Pruett’s heritage.

Well, all of it still doesn’t define her mark in the racing arena. The 11-time NHRA event winner began her racing career at just 8 years old and had accumulated an impressive 37 Jr. Dragster trophies by age 16 – achievements that speak to her racing pedigree regardless of heritage.

While Pruett may not have Irish roots, her connection to NASCAR’s St. Patrick’s Day tradition comes through her husband Tony Stewart. Mr. husband has competed at Bristol numerous times throughout his illustrious career. Currently, Pruett is taking a break from racing as the couple focuses on starting a family in 2024. Stewart being candid about his feelings on fatherhood, once said: “I freaked out about the whole process, to be honest,” Stewart told Autoweek. “I can’t even take care of myself. She has to take care of me.”

Bristol Motor Speedway has embraced the St. Patrick’s Day connection more than any other track on the NASCAR circuit. Vice President of Marketing Drew Bedard emphasized this unique relationship: “Our history is connected to this national holiday more than any other track on the circuit so we are looking forward to providing our guests with an amazing experience.” The track encourages fans to wear green and shamrocks while promising a massive celebration. This creates what Bedard calls “a huge platform for those who want to let loose and celebrate their Irish heritage, or simply just have a good time.”

Irish Heritage in NASCAR

While prominent Irish drivers have been scarce in NASCAR’s history, the sport has seen some notable Irish connections over the years. Team Ireland, owned by Irishman Martin Birrane, competed in the NASCAR Winston Cup Series between 1991 and 1992. The team had the best finish of thirteenth with driver Bobby Hillin Jr. at the Coca-Cola 600 in Charlotte. Birrane, who passed away in 2018 at age 82, represented one of the few direct Irish connections to NASCAR’s top series.

NASCAR’s embrace of St. Patrick’s Day extends beyond Bristol, with a total of nine Cup Series races having been won on the holiday throughout the sport’s history. From Ralph Moody’s 1957 victory at Wilson Speedway to Brad Keselowski’s 2019 win at Martinsville, these St. Patrick’s Day triumphs have added a touch of Irish mystique to NASCAR’s rich tapestry. While Leah Pruett may not bring Irish heritage to the Stewart household, the sport’s celebration of the holiday continues to create memorable moments for racing fans across America.