LANSING – Kyle Brow of Vassar has been selected as the 2015 Pure

Michigan 400 Honorary Starter for the race Aug. 16, while Michael Harris,

Executive Director of Paralyzed Veterans of America Michigan Chapter, has been

named 2015 Pure Michigan 400 Grand Marshal.

Brow, a 20-year-old with autism, developed a passion for

NASCAR and racing at a young age. Over the years, Brow’s enthusiasm for the

sport has only grown; he keeps meticulous records of each race and aspires to

be a NASCAR announcer one day. His mother, Laura Oliver, nominated him to have

this once-in-a-lifetime experience, saying “you cannot have a conversation with

Kyle that does not turn into a conversation about NASCAR.”

“Autism influences people of all abilities and all

backgrounds, and Kyle Brow is an inspiring example of someone with autism who

has tapped into his passion to enrich the world of those around him,” said Lt.

Governor Brian Calley. “Kyle’s love for NASCAR and ability to turn what could

be perceived as a weakness into his strength make him a terrific choice to

represent Pure Michigan in the starter’s booth on race day.”

In addition to waving the green flag at Michigan

International Speedway on Sunday, Brow will attend the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series

drivers’ meeting and driver introductions.

Grand Marshal Michael Harris will join Brow at the drivers’

meeting and introductions before he gives the signal to start the engines.

Harris, of Westland, served in the United States Marine Corp from 1975 to 1979

and was honorably discharged as a Corporal. Shortly after his injury, Harris

joined the local Paralyzed Veterans of America Michigan Chapter leading the

Government Relations team until 2007 when he stepped into the Executive

Director role to ensure Paralyzed Veterans of America members live full and

rewarding lives with access to veterans’ services, quality healthcare and civil

rights. The Paralyzed Veterans’ Michigan Chapter serves more than 475 members,

their families and caregivers throughout the state of Michigan.

Michigan International Speedway has worked with Paralyzed

Veterans of America on a number of initiatives. The track routinely honors its

veterans at the races with special ticket packages and celebrates the Army’s

birthday. In June, the United States Army Chorus sang the national anthem for

the Quicken Loans 400.