By Jerry Jordan, Editor

CORONADO, Calif. — Nothing quite captures the raw spirit of American motorsports like thunderous stock cars ripping around a racetrack, except maybe when the racetrack is created on the tarmac and streets of an active U.S. Navy base just days before the nation’s 250th birthday.

That’s what happened this past weekend and it was a spectacle that no one in attendance will forget. It wasn’t just another event on the schedule – it was history in the making and the place was absolutely electric.

Fans, sailors and racing enthusiasts packed the venue for what many are calling a one-of-a-kind event that most hope will get a return nod in 2027. The patriotic backdrop, combined with the unmistakable rumble of stockcar engines roaring around the course, created an atmosphere unlike anything we’ve seen, even at Daytona or Talladega. This wasn’t your typical Sunday afternoon; it was a celebration of speed and the stars who make racing feel bigger than life. And anytime there’s an event as massive as the NASCAR weekend in Southern California, there’s sure to be celebrities on hand.

In fact, this past weekend was like a celebrity magnet pulling actors, politicians and athletes to the Navy base. From stars including Travis and Jason Kelcy (I didn’t see Taylor Swift anywhere), Drew Brees, Scott Eastwood, Marshawn Lynch, singer Gabby Barrett, actor Mathew McConaughey and U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, NASCAR was the hot ticket.

And one of those stars lighting up the weekend was Jesse Palmer, who was cheering on Ryan Ellis, who was driving the No. 02 Tablo TV Chevrolet in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series (NOAPS).

The former Florida Gators quarterback, longtime ESPN college football voice and familiar face from The Bachelor TV franchise said his first-ever NASCAR race weekend was unforgettable. Palmer, who’s no stranger to big stages – Super Bowls, national championships and international soccer matches – admitted this one hit different.

“It’s exciting for me,” Palmer shared in an exclusive chat with Kickin’ the Tires. “It’s my first ever NASCAR race … being a part of history. The first NASCAR race at a Navy base, right before the Fourth of July, the 250th birthday of this great country – it’s so cool to be here.”

Palmer soaked up the strategy sessions, qualifying drama and behind-the-scenes intensity that separates NASCAR from other sports.

“The passion of the fans is incredible,” Palmer said, praising the energy on the base and the pros who pour everything into their driving on a track that was challenging to say the least.

But beyond the action on the track, Palmer had his own mission – to share the benefits and his involvement with Tablo TV and its involvement with the Young’s Motorsports car Ellis was driving. The company, which simplifies cord-cutting with an easy antenna-powered device and no monthly fees, was giving back in a big way.

Through a partnership with GovX, Tablo TV was (and still is) offering a special $30 discount on the Tablo TV Total Package for military veterans and service members – a fitting gesture at an active Navy installation.

“It really hits home,” Palmer said of the Tablo TV offer. “A small way to say thank you for all their service.”

Standing backstage ahead of driver introductions for the NOAPS race, Palmer seemed to be enjoying the sights and catching the racing vibe but when asked about his previous football career, he snapped back with quick wit, explaining, “Looking back on playing, I don’t know why I ever thought it was a good idea to get chased by 330-pound human beings and get tackled. We were reliving some of the biggest hits that I have ever taken in my life and it wasn’t a fun Memory Lane to go down. I am glad I am now on this side of the camera. It is way better on my body but I am still very involved in the game, obviously with ESPN and it is still very near and dear to my heart.”

He also teased what’s ahead for Bachelor fans: new seasons of The Bachelor and Bachelor in Paradise slated for 2027 but for that, you’ll have to watch the show.