Just before the 2025 NASCAR Chicago Street Race, Harrison Burton’s fiancée, Jenna Petty, posted a selfie at Chicago’s famous Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as The Bean. In the photo, she stands alongside the wives of NASCAR drivers Todd Gilliland and Zane Smith, highlighting the supportive community present ahead of the high-profile event.
The Instagram story featuring the trio was shared hours before the much-anticipated street race in Chicago, bringing attention to both the camaraderie among NASCAR families and the excitement surrounding the weekend’s race action.
Jenna Petty Balances Academic, Dance, and Racing Community Roles
Jenna Petty is currently a student at High Point University where she serves as captain of the dance team. Beyond academics, she has been involved with Dance Productions—The Remix, and she has been a brand ambassador for the dancewear company Jo and Jax since 2019. Her career also extends into fashion and entrepreneurship, showcasing her diverse interests beyond motorsports.
In addition to her professional pursuits, Petty contributes to the Motor Racing Outreach program, a nonprofit offering spiritual support and community activities to drivers and their families, underscoring her commitment to the racing community.
Emotional Support from Jenna Petty During Harrison Burton’s Breakthrough at Daytona
Following Harrison Burton’s unexpected victory at the Daytona race, which secured his place in the 2024 NASCAR Playoffs, Jenna Petty shared a heartfelt Instagram post reflecting her emotional investment in his success. The 23-year-old driver had been positioned near 30th in the standings before the race, making his win a major upset celebrated widely.
“All because I wanted this for you so bad so that you could see what I see in you and believe in yourself again,” she wrote. “After asking God for your safety, I kept saying to myself ‘Why not us?’ I guess he agreed.” —Jenna Petty, Fiancée of Harrison Burton
Her post was a testament to the encouragement and faith she has consistently offered Burton, capturing the spirit of hope and determination present within their relationship.
How Harrison Burton and Jenna Petty’s Relationship Began Despite Shared Beginnings
Though they grew up attending the same school, Harrison Burton and Jenna Petty did not meet until their teenage years. During a 2024 Q&A session on Instagram, Petty revealed the origins of their relationship and how a casual double date became the start of a meaningful connection.
“We grew up going to the same school but never knew each other. We first talked on a double date, that we didn’t go on for each other (lol), but ended up falling for one another & have been inseparable ever since I was 15 and he was 16,” she explained.
The pair began dating in 2017 and announced their engagement in March 2024. Jenna, who holds a degree in entrepreneurship in addition to her dance background, revealed plans for their wedding in October 2025.
Building a Future Amid NASCAR Rivalries and Celebrations
As the NASCAR Chicago Street Race approaches, the glimpse into the personal lives of racers and their families adds a human element to the competition. Jenna Petty’s connection with the wives of Todd Gilliland and Zane Smith illustrates the tight-knit support network that surrounds the drivers, enhancing the sport’s sense of family beyond the track.
The upcoming race weekend will not only test the skills of stars like Harrison Burton and Zane Smith but also deepen the shared experiences of their loved ones, setting the stage for both competitive and intimate moments in NASCAR’s 2025 season.