The pledge of allegiance to the flag at a Nascar race?

Yes it’s true.
Totally used to the prayers and the National Anthem sung at the beginning of the races, and the Planes flying over, but the last one i watched, the announcer next said, “Now place your hand over your heart, and recite the Pledge of Allegiance”,
which everyone did and said, “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States…” etc etc
...,isn’t this a bit extreme, or do you think this is proper for this type of event?