NASCAR drivers Tyler Reddick and Corey Heim traded their helmets for a different kind of thrill this week when they stepped into the San Diego Zoo as part of a sponsor activation tied to 23XI Racing.
Wild Encounters
The two competitors were paired with some of the park’s most iconic big cats, giving them a close‑up look at the animals while they promoted the zoo’s conservation agenda.
Reddick arrived with his wife Alexa and their two youngsters, Beau and Rookie, turning the outing into a family adventure that broke the usual routine of the racing circuit.
Heim, who had never seen a giant panda in person, was captivated by the creature’s black‑and‑white charm, while Reddick praised the zoo’s efforts to protect endangered species.
A surprising moment came when a cheetah on the premises demonstrated its acceleration, reaching 60 mph in a fraction of a second — faster than a NASCAR Cup car — leaving both drivers amused and humbled.
Beyond the animal encounters, the visit served as a rare breather from the usual sponsor obligations, offering the drivers a chance to connect with fans and highlight the partnership between 23XI Racing and the zoo.