Green River Whiskey is the primary sponsor of the No. 44 Green River Whiskey Chevrolet with NY Racing Team and NASCAR driver J.J. Yeley as they race to qualify for the 2025 Daytona 500.
The sponsorship marks Green River’s first venture into modern motorsports, aligning with the brand’s remarkable revival and Owensboro, Kentucky’s NASCAR heritage.
“The Daytona 500 is more than just a race—it’s a proving ground for perseverance, skill, and a little bit of luck,” said Pete Marino, President of Bardstown Bourbon and Green River Distilling Co. “The horseshoe, a universal symbol of luck, has always been a part of the brand’s iconography and our bottle. On the No. 44 Green River Whiskey Chevrolet, it’s a symbol that we’re ready to chase history at the Great American Race.”
Founded in 1885, Green River Whiskey has experienced a dramatic comeback, overcoming challenges like prohibition, shifting consumer trends, and natural disasters. Reintroduced in 2022, the brand is rapidly expanding and plans to distribute in 45 states in 2025. Green River Whiskey will also launch its first national advertising campaign in over 100 years, combining its rich history with a sense of authenticity and approachability.
The No. 44 Chevrolet, featuring Green River Whiskey’s bold green branding, will race in the Daytona 500 qualifiers on February 12 & 13, 2025. The goal is to race their way into the Great American Race on Sunday, February 16 at 2:30 PM ET, live on FOX. As Green River continues its journey to become a top-10 American Whiskey brand, the sponsorship reflects its commitment to growth and embracing new opportunities, much like the unpredictable nature of NASCAR itself.
For J.J. Yeley, this partnership represents more than just a sponsorship—it’s about seizing an opportunity to make a statement.
“I couldn’t be more excited to team up with Green River Whiskey for this monumental Daytona race,” said Yeley. “Their story of resilience, growth, and passion for their craft is exactly what it takes to compete at this level. Daytona is where legends are made, and with Green River Whiskey on board, we’re ready to take on the challenge and fight our way into the big race.”
About Green River Distilling Co.
Green River Distilling Co. is a celebration of classic Kentucky – honoring the past while staying firmly planted in the present. The 10th oldest licensed distillery in Kentucky (DSP-KY-10), Green River is known as “the Whiskey Without Regrets,” and enjoys a long, rich history dating back to 1885. Reintroduced in 2022, Green River Distilling Co. is proud to call Owensboro, Kentucky home, and serves as the westernmost outpost of the Kentucky Bourbon TrailTM. Authentic and approachable, Green River offers a growing portfolio of whiskeys crafted from historic mashbills. Blended to create a smooth and welcoming taste profile, Green River Distilling Co. is a true testament to simplicity and quality going hand-in-hand. Green River is part of Bardstown Bourbon Co, a top 10 distiller in the U.S. For more information, visit greenriverwhiskey.com.
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