Jason Varitek Named Petit Le Mans Grand Marshal

Former Major League Baseball star and Georgia Tech graduate Jason Varitek will serve as Grand Marshal at the 15th annual Petit Le Mans powered by Mazda. The season finale of the American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patr¢n runs Saturday, Oct. 20, at the legendary Road Atlanta circuit.

Varitek spent 15 years with the Boston Red Sox and was team captain for seven seasons (2004-2011). A two-time World Series champion, he retired earlier this year, having played 1,546 Major League games – all with Boston.

"I'm looking forward to being the Grand Marshal at Petit Le Mans," Varitek said. "I've been to the race before and was blown away by the cars and the crowds. Atlanta is pretty lucky to have such a fantastic international racing event in its back yard. The entry list looks impressive this year, so I have no doubt it'll be another amazing experience."

The three-time All-Star is the only Major League Baseball player to catch four no-hitters behind the plate. He won the Gold Glove in 2005. He ranks first for Boston catchers in career hits (1,307); runs (664); home runs (193); runs batted in (757); and is second all-time in Boston team history with 11 post-season home runs. His career batting average was .256.

"Road Atlanta is honored to have Jason Varitek serve as Grand Marshal at Petit Le Mans," stated Geoff Lee, Road Atlanta President and General Manager. "His stellar career at Georgia Tech and with the Boston Red Sox has earned him the respect and admiration of sports fans throughout the country."

Varitek is one of only two players in baseball history to have played in a world championship game of the Little League World Series, in a national championship game of the College World Series, and in the MLB World Series.

He resides in Suwanee, Ga., with his wife, Catherine, and four daughters – Ally, Kendall, Caroline & Liv.