Two Great Lakes And A Blue Deuce

Brad Keselowski waves to fans as he finishes his trip across the "Mighty Mac". Historical Mackinac Island can be seen in the distance. — Brad Keselowski waves to fans as he finishes his trip across the “Mighty Mac”. Historical Mackinac Island can be seen in the distance.

When it comes to the state of Michigan, many images come to mind; most notably among them is the Mackinac Bridge. The beauty of engineering intertwined with the splendor of two of the great lakes, an island, and the unspoiled terrain of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula have made the bridge iconic. But, as most of us Michiganders know, the automotive industry and motorsports have their roots deeply planted in Michigan soil.

The Pure Michigan 400 Pace Car escorted the "Blue Deuce" across the bridge before making an appearance at Bridge View Park — The Pure Michigan 400 Pace Car escorted the “Blue Deuce” across the bridge before making an appearance at Bridge View Park

Michigan may not play host to the legendary events of the Indianapolis 500 or the Daytona 500, but there is no doubt that motorsports is still strong in the state. With

Michigan’s own Brad Keselowski capturing the 2012 Sprint Cup title in a Penske Racing machine; Michigan natives can’t help but have a sense of pride and with the Pure Michigan 400 at Michigan International Speedway fast approaching

On a hazy Michigan day, Keselowski made history by driving his Penske Ford across one of Michigan's most iconic features. — On a hazy Michigan day, Keselowski made history by driving his Penske Ford across one of Michigan’s most iconic features.

the excitement is building.

On May 29^th, The Mackinac Bridge Authority in conjunction with the Michigan Dept. of Transportation, Michigan International Speedway, and Ford Racing made history by honoring this great sport, and Michigan’s first Sprint Cup Champion when they held a public event

Brad Keselowski posed for a photo op by his Miller Lite Machine after his bridge journey.

which included Brad Keselowski driving the “Blue Deuce” across the Mackinac Bridge. Keselowski drove the Miller Lite Machine from Mackinaw City over the closed bridge and into Michigan’s Upper Peninsula; he even stopped to pay the customary $4.00 toll before driving into Bridge View Park for a free public event. At dusk the bridge was illuminated in blue to match the no.2 machine, a touch that was very neat!

As part of the event, the Mighty Mac was illuminated in Penske blue. (Photo: MDOT)

The event was an awesome way to recognize our newest NASCAR champion, his team, and Michigan’s continued importance in auto racing. It was also a very unique way in which fans could experience a once in a lifetime event featuring all of Michigan’s best!!

More photos and video from the event can be found on the Michigan Dept. of Transportation Facebook page.