Real Cancer Talk: Motorsports Partnerships Expand Cancer Care Access in Rural Communities - An Interview with SMART Modified Tour's Chris Williams

In this episode of Real Cancer Talk from VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dr. Rob Winn sits down with Chris Williams, owner and CEO of the SMART Modified Tour (Southern Modified Auto Racing Teams Tour), to explore an unexpected but powerful idea: motorsports can help bring cancer education and care awareness to rural communities.

From the deep roots of modified racing to the tight-knit “family” culture of local tracks, Williams explains why racing is more than entertainment—it’s a community hub that reaches people where they are, especially in areas with fewer resources and fewer healthcare touchpoints. Dr. Winn connects that community-first mindset to a shared mission in cancer care: one team, one fight—and making sure people in rural regions know they have real options, real progress, and real science on their side.

The conversation even moves onto the track at North Wilkesboro Speedway, as Williams gives a behind-the-scenes tour—covering racing history, safety, speed, and why partnerships between healthcare and grassroots communities can change outcomes.

Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org

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VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education.

Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.