Martina McBride Replaces Jim Nabors at Indy 500

For many years, Indiana native Jim Nabors has performed the National Anthem at the Indianapolis 500. This year illness prevents him from attending. So, the Speedway officials stepped up and got the best to replace him -- Martina McBride.

Speedway spokesman Doug Boles tells The Indianapolis Star that officials wanted a performer who would sing the national anthem in the traditional manner.

The Grammy-winning singer is a four-time Country Music Association Female Vocalist of the Year and three-time Academy of Country Music Female Vocalist of the Year. She has sold more than 18 million albums and had six No. 1 singles.

Martina says singing the national anthem at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is a "huge honor."

Of course, nowhere near the honor of signing my plate in barbecue sauce.