Christopher Bell, the driver of the No. 20 Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing and two-time defending winner at New Hampshire Motor Speedway (NHMS), spent a day touring Boston on September 20. The visit served as a lead-up to the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs race scheduled for September 21 at NHMS, giving Bell a chance to experience Boston’s culture while engaging with local landmarks and communities.
A Unique Duck Boat Tour Showcasing Boston’s Landmarks
Bell’s day began aboard an iconic Duck Boat named Symphony Hal, a nod to Boston’s Symphony Hall. Accompanied by NHMS Executive Vice President and General Manager David McGrath and local media representatives, the tour was led by driver Tony and narrator The Great Garabaldi. Their narration cleverly combined Boston history with <a href="https://www.big14news.com/nascar/”>NASCAR-themed humor, including light-hearted teasing of McGrath and highlights from Bell’s own racing career. The boat journey featured notable sites such as the Omni Parker House, famous as the birthplace of Boston Crème Pie, the Freedom Trail, Massachusetts State House, Boston Common, Public Garden, the bronze Make Way for Ducklings statues, and Faneuil Hall.
One memorable moment on the water involved Bell taking the helm for the first time to perform donuts on the Charles River, blending his racing skills with Boston’s iconic scenery.
Delighting in Boston’s Italian Culinary Heritage
After returning to dry land, Bell headed to Boston’s North End, the city’s oldest neighborhood well known for its authentic Italian food. There, he joined Head Chef Felipe Gustavo Pereira Santos and Chef de Cuisine Alonso Cedillas at Umbria restaurant. Bell enthusiastically wore an apron as the chefs taught him to prepare their specialty Short Rib Caramelle Pasta. Following the pasta lesson, Bell explored a vast selection of appetizers including Potato Croquets, Cacio E Pepe Arancini, various skewers like Chicken Parmesan and Caprese, and unique bites such as Smoked Salmon Crostini and Sausage and Pepper Spiedini. The tour concluded with a dessert tasting featuring cupcakes, cannoli, tiramisu, and beignets, showcasing the rich flavors of Italian cuisine.
Touching Visit at Boston Children’s Hospital
To round out his Boston experience, Bell visited Seacrest Studios at Boston Children’s Hospital, where he interacted with young patients. The studio visit included a session of Arty Party, a creative activity where patients and Bell designed race cars, tracks, and even new fire suits for the 12-time NASCAR Cup Series winner. This interactive segment was broadcast across more than 470 hospital rooms, allowing children throughout the hospital to join in remotely. Bell left the children with signed hero cards, plush toys representing a moose or lobster from NHMS, and photos to cherish the moment.
Reflecting on an Unforgettable Day in Boston
Before departing Boston Logan International Airport, Bell shared his impressions of the day, stating,
“It was an amazing day to get just the history of this place,”
and added,
“Overall a really, really fun day, and I can’t wait to see everybody at New Hampshire Motor Speedway for the Round of 12 opener. It’s going to be a really important race, and a lot more serious when we come back to New England.”
This visit highlighted not only Bell’s connection to the sport but also his appreciation for Boston’s rich history and vibrant community. His engagement with fans, chefs, and young patients illustrates the meaningful connections athletes often create beyond the racetrack. As the Playoffs continue, Bell’s experience in Boston serves as an inspiring reminder of the culture and people that support NASCAR events in New England.
