Gunner Olszewski, Bubba Wallace Play Catch With Fans During Rain Delay

That's how you make the best of a bad situation

LOUDON, N.H. — The start of the Foxwoods 301 was a bummer for everyone at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, but Patriots receiver Gunner Olszewski and NASCAR star Bubba Wallace did their best to keep fans engaged.

Sunday’s Cup Series race in the Granite State spun and wrecked to a halt just six laps in, when Kyle Busch, among others, lost control under a heavy downpour at the “Magic Mile.” A 90-plus-minute rain delay ensued.

During the delay, Olszewski, who drove the pace car before the race, and Wallace played catch with fans beyond the catch fence. Fellow driver Corey LaJoie eventually joined in.

Check out some of the highlights, including Olszewski, an All-Pro punt returner last season with New England, receiving a punt from a fan:

https://twitter.com/NHMS/status/1416861297296150528
https://twitter.com/NHMS/status/1416861594189959169

The top moment occurred when Olszewski caught a deep ball from LaJoie.

Take a look:

https://twitter.com/NHMS/status/1416864105282080772
Jul 18, 2021; Loudon, New Hampshire, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Gunner Olszewski plays catch with NASCAR Cup Series driver Bubba Wallace (23) and driver Corey LaJoie (7) during a red-flag rain delay at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports

That’s how you make the best of a tough situation.

Before the race, Olszewski discussed why Dale Earnhardt Jr. was his favorite NASCAR driver while growing up. He also offered a midsummer review on Patriots rookie quarterback Mac Jones.

About the Author

Dakota Randall

Plymouth State/Boston University product from Wolfeboro, NH, who now is based in Rhode Island. Have worked at NESN since 2016, covering the Patriots since 2021. Might chat your ear off about Disney World, Halo 2, and Lord of the Rings.