Sports Media Report
Professional racecar driver Danica Patrick has been chosen by Nickelodeon to receive the Legend Award at this year’s Kids’ Choice Sports 2018, the summer’s slimiest, surprise-filled sports showdown for kids. Patrick, who became the first female winner in IndyCar Series history, will receive the award in recognition of her trailblazer achievements and outstanding sportsmanship on and off the racetrack. Kids’ Choice Sports 2018 is hosted by Chris Paul and airs Saturday, July 21, at 8:00 p.m. (ET/PT) on Nickelodeon.
Said Patrick, “It’s such an honor to receive the Kids’ Choice Sports Legend Award from Nickelodeon. I decided when I was 10 years old I wanted to be a racecar driver. I dreamed big, believed in myself, worked hard, took chances and made the most of every opportunity. Today, I’m honored to be a positive influence on kids and encourage them to stay true to themselves and what they believe in; keep dreaming big and working hard. Bring on the gold slime!”
Top nods for the fifth annual show were also announced today as female athletes Alex Morgan, Chloe Kim, Jamie Anderson, and Mikaela Shiffrin all scored three noms each. First-time superstar athletes receiving nominations include: Lonzo Ball, Danny Amendola, Nick Foles, Alex and Maia Shibutani, Allisha Gray, Aaron Judge and Adam Rippon. Additional competitors vying for coveted blimps include: Lindsey Vonn, Cristiano Ronaldo, Venus Williams, Katie Ledecky, Russell Wilson, Aaron Rodgers, Rob Gronkowski and Von Miller.
Kids can vote on three new categories this year including: “Nothing But Net,” highlighting athletes who score the shots; “Heavy Hitters,” celebrating the power-hitters; and “Winter Wonders,” featuring those who dominate the cold weather. Additional categories will be announced closer to the show.
The Legend Award honors athletes who are the ultimate role models to kids across the globe, inspiring generations year after year. Patrick, who is the fifth athlete to receive this honor, joins a prestigious list of past recipients including most decorated Olympian of all time Michael Phelps, five-time NBA Champion Kobe Bryant, soccer legend David Beckham and five-time World Series champion Derek Jeter.
