Young Life and stock drag racing partner to share the Gospel.

USA (MNN)–Mike Edwards closed out the 2002 NHRA Pro Stock Drag Racing Series season by finishing in the top 10 for the fifth time in his career. He won two events in 2002 — one in Houston and one in Denver. Edwards, now in his sixth year as a Pro Stock driver, continues to drive his Chevy Cavalier under the Mike Edwards Motorsports title. The funding of several Christian foundations makes it possible for Edwards to carry the Young Life logo.

Before each race, Edwards, with the help of his wife Lisa, welcomes several junior high and high school students to the track.

They spend time around the car, getting a quick lesson about drag racing — a sport to which most of them have never been exposed. Then the students visit the Racers for Christ tent, where Mike tells them how the love of God has changed his life. He also shares how God has helped him in his racing career.

On the day of the race, fans are given the opportunity to partner with Young Life by giving a gift which is used specifically to take kids to camp. Many of the kids that go to Young Life camps each year are able to go because of programs like this.

This partnership is a tool to help Young Life develop new avenues to reach young people throughout the United States and is carrying the theme of “Giving Kids Hope” throughout 2003.