Summitt's foundation to appear on car

Don’t ever think Trevor Bayne is in danger of forgetting his roots.

GROWING UP NASCAR

Trevor Bayne is only 21, but he's already had plenty of exposure to racing. See photos from his early years.

In August, Bayne and his Wood Brothers Racing team will pay tribute to the Knoxville native’s favorite college program – the University of Tennessee. Bayne will drive a "We Back Pat"-themed Roush Fenway Ford in honor of women’s basketball head coach emeritus Pat Summitt.

Bayne will pilot the orange-themed car at the Food City 250 at Bristol Motor Speedway on Aug. 24.

The promotion is designed to raise national awareness of The Pat Summitt Foundation’s mission and contribution to the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. Summitt, the all-time winningest coach in NCAA basketball history who won eight NCAA national championships while directing the Vols, was diagnosed in August of 2011 with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. She retired in April of this year and now serves as head coach emeritus for the Lady Vols.

"Growing up in Knoxville, I've always been a big UT fan and an even bigger fan of Pat Summit,” said Bayne, winner of the 2011 Daytona 500. “I have always respected what she stood for and how she conducted business. I am excited she is going to be a part of our team at Bristol. Now we need to carry on her winning tradition."

Summitt was both pleased to be on board with Bayne and seemed impressed by the young man.

“We are honored that Trevor will be representing The Pat Summitt Foundation,” Summitt said. “I have heard that Trevor began his career in Knoxville at the age of 5 racing go-karts. With Trevor also calling Knoxville home, it’s great to see the success he has had over the past several years.”

Summitt also will serve as grand marshal for the Food City 250 Nationwide Series race.