Hangs out with Richard Petty, Harry Connick and Danica Patrick

From Eric Dondero:

America's sexiest politician turned up the heat at the famous Florida speedway over the weekend. Decked out in "designer jeans and sky-high black stiletto heels" the Alaska Fox met with thousands of adoring fans. And according to numerous media reports, Palin was the most popular attraction.

She addressed the crowd briefly: "It's events like these, that bring all Americans together, and makes us proud to be Americans" (See the 30 second YouTube video)

From the Orlando Sentinnel:

DAYTONA BEACH – Palin-mania easily surpassed Danica-mania at Daytona International Speedway on Sunday.

While Patrick got all the headlines for the better part of two weeks, she had no stake in the Daytona 500. Palin did, and as a VIP guest for the race, she ate up all the attention.

When she arrived for the drivers meeting, Palin was immediately mobbed.

She took a seat up front next to Harry Connick Jr., who sang the national anthem for the race. When NASCAR president Mike Helton acknowledged her as a special guest, she got the largest ovation from the room, packed from the front to the back with drivers, team members, support personnel and onlookers.

After sitting through the meeting, Palin could not get out the door. Fans mobbed her, asking for pictures and autographs.

An estimated 150,000 spectators showed up for the event.

Photo hat tip of SP at another sports event, to our friends at GOP 12.