Phoenix International Raceway President Bryan R. Sperber has announced that rock superstar Eddie Van Halen will serve as an Honorary Race Official for the SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series race at PIR on Saturday, April 21.

As an Honorary Race Official, Van Halen will be part of pre-race activities and will join Sperber on the pre-race stage greeting drivers as they are introduced prior to the start of the race. In addition to his duties as an Honorary Race Official, Van Halen will help to unveil a limited edition Fender Stratocaster Guitar as well as a limited edition EVH brand Frankenstein replica guitar at PIR on Friday, April 20.

The Fender guitar, with its unique designs, will be presented to the winner of the SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500 on Saturday, April 21. The one-of-a-kind PIR Fender Stratocaster Guitar was built by Chris Fleming, Senior Master Builder, in Fender's Custom Shop. "I'm personally delighted that Eddie Van Halen has accepted our invitation to join us as our Honorary Race Official for the SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500," said Sperber. "There is no one who has had the kind of impact on music that he and his band—Van Halen—have had. I know it will be a thrill for the drivers and fans to have Eddie at Phoenix International Raceway for the NASCAR weekend."

A 2007 inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Eddie Van Halen is the backbone of one of the most well-known rock and roll bands of all time—Van Halen. A legendary rock guitarist, Van Halen and EVH brand guitars, amps and musical products has partnered with the organization for this unique unveiling. "I am honored on behalf of EVH Brand guitars, amps and musical products to be invited to such an exciting and fun event. I feel privileged to be working with such amazing organizations like Phoenix International Raceway, their NASCAR event and Fender," said Van Halen. Tickets are now on sale for the SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500 weekend at PIR and can be purchased online at racetickets.com or by calling 1-866-408-7223. For additional information on the SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500 Weekend, visit www.phoenixraceway.com or call 623-463-5600.

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