Kevin Harvick honored at the White House

Kevin Harvick’s pilgrimage to the White House happened Tuesday.

The 2014 Sprint Cup Series champion was honored by President Barack Obama for his title.

“It’s great to have Kevin’s crew chief, Rodney Childers, who is here,” Obama said. “We’ve also got Greg Zipadelli –- almost messed it up there; it’s like Obama, too many vowels. And the team from Stewart-Haas Racing. NASCAR’s leadership is here as well. Brian France is here and Mike Helton. Welcome back.

“And even though the Budweiser Chevy got the White House parking pass this year, I am sure Tony Stewart doesn’t mind adding another Owner’s Championship to his collection. So congratulations to Tony.”

President Obama also made sure to incorporate Steve Byrnes into his remarks about Harvick. The Fox announcer passed away earlier Tuesday.

“I also want to offer my condolences to everybody in the NASCAR community on the passing of a legendary reporter and broadcaster, Steve Byrnes,” Obama said. “And I know a lot of fans’ thoughts and prayers today are with his wife, Karen, and his son, Bryson. We are here to celebrate, though, Kevin Harvick. This was an exciting year for the “Four Car.” As the season started, Kevin had a new team, a new crew chief to adjust to. It usually takes a little time for a driver and a crew chief to find their groove, but Kevin and Rodney seemed to figure out each other in a hurry – sort of like when Joe Biden joined my team.

“So they had instant chemistry. And as Kevin can tell you, when you have a trusted partner shouting world-class advice into your ear at every turn, you can’t lose.”