Fisher turns grand marshal in Richmond.

Sarah Fisher, voted by fans as the 'Most Popular Driver' in the Indy Racing League for the last two seasons, will serve as the grand marshal for the 19th annual Richmond Christmas Parade next weekend.

The Ukrop's/Retail Merchants Association of Greater Richmond Christmas Parade draws more than 200,000 people of all ages, and serves as the official start of the holiday season in Richmond. The 7 December event will include marching bands, balloon floats of cartoon characters Rocky, Bullwinkle and Garfield, and, of course, an appearance by Santa Claus. Past grand marshals have included singer Kenny Rogers and actor Blair Underwood of L.A. Law.

Fisher made history in the 2002 IRL season when she became the first woman to win a pole position in major open-wheel racing by capturing the top starting spot for the Belterra Casino Indy 300 at Kentucky Speedway. She drove the #23 Team Smart Blade entry for Dreyer & Reinbold Racing in the 2002 season, and is expected to return to Richmond to take part in next year's SunTrust Indy Challenge night race on Saturday 28 June.

"Sarah's popularity goes well beyond the racetrack, and we are thrilled that she will be the grand marshal for the Richmond Christmas Parade," said Doug Fritz, president of Richmond International Raceway, "Sarah is a great ambassador for the Indy Racing League, and we are proud to host her and the 'Stars and Cars' of the Indy 500 each June for the SunTrust Indy Challenge at Richmond International Raceway."