Rick Hendrick, the legendary team owner of Hendrick Motorsports, has a fascinating racing history that goes beyond his success as a team owner. While he is renowned for his achievements in the NASCAR Cup Series, Hendrick also had a brief but notable career as a driver. In this article, we explore his racing journey, from his early days tinkering with cars to his brief forays into the driver's seat.
The Early Days: From Car Tinkering to Drag Racing
Hendrick's passion for cars began at a young age. As a 14-year-old in Palmer Springs, Virginia, he rebuilt a 1931 Chevrolet behind his grandfather's store. This sparked his interest in racing, and he soon joined his childhood friend Larrie Matthews at the Person County Drag Strip. Hendrick's first race was a short one, but it ignited his love for speed.
Road Course Racing: A Surprising Talent
One of the most intriguing aspects of Hendrick's racing history is his participation in road course events. In 1987 and 1988, he competed in two NASCAR Cup Series races at Riverside International Raceway in California. Despite not being a professional racer, Hendrick showed surprising skill, finishing ahead of his team regulars in both races. His performance caught the attention of Ricky Rudd, who praised his ability to handle road courses.
A Brief Return to the Driver's Seat
Hendrick's driving career was not limited to road courses. In 1987, he participated in an O'Reilly Auto Parts Series race at Road Atlanta, finishing 24th due to clutch issues. The following year, he entered a Southwest Tour event at Riverside, where he led with seven laps to go before a caution and a controversial move by Ron Hornaday dropped him to 20th. Despite his lack of experience, Hendrick's natural talent was evident.
The Truck Series and Final Ride
In 1995, Hendrick made his final appearance as a driver in the NASCAR Truck Series at Heartland Park in Topeka, Kansas. He finished 23rd, showcasing his versatility in different racing categories. His love for road racing and the camaraderie with his team members made this period a special part of his career.
A Different Path to Success
While Hendrick's driving career was brief, his true talent lay in team management and business acumen. His success as a team owner and his ability to sell passenger cars through the Hendrick Automotive Group have solidified his legacy in NASCAR. His racing history, including his driving days, adds a unique dimension to his story, reminding us that success in motorsports comes in many forms.
