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Riley Gaines Sparks Controversy at NASCAR Race with Prayer

3/3/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Riley Gaines, a former NCAA swimmer and vocal opponent of transgender athletes in women's sports, stirred the crowd at the NASCAR EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix in Austin, Texas, by leading the pre-race prayer. Her reference to Donald Trump ignited a wave of mixed emotions, with some fans applauding while others voiced their discontent over the political undertone.

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Story summary

Riley Gaines, a former NCAA swimmer and vocal opponent of transgender athletes in women's sports, stirred the crowd at the NASCAR EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix in Austin, Texas, by leading the pre-race prayer. Her reference to Donald Trump ignited a wave of mixed emotions, with some fans applauding while others voiced their discontent over the political undertone.