NASCAR Research & Archives Center | Getty Images Chris Graythen | Getty Images
Hendrick Motorsports is one of the most successful teams in NASCAR history, with a long list of accomplishments and victories. Over the years, the team has delivered some truly memorable wins that have left a lasting impact on fans and the sport as a whole. In this article, we will take a trip down memory lane and relive Hendrick Motorsports' most memorable victories. From their first Daytona 500 win to record-breaking championship runs, these wins have shaped the team's legacy and solidified their place in NASCAR history.
1984 Sovran Bank 500 at Martinsville
The potential closure of Hendrick Motorsports was looming on the horizon when the team pulled off a stunning victory at the 1984 Sovran Bank 500 at Martinsville. Geoff Bodine, behind the wheel of Rick Hendrick's No. 5 car, shocked the world by taking the checkered flag. This win marked the first victory for both Hendrick and Bodine in their careers.
Geoff Bodine dominated The Great American race, leading 101 of the 200 laps en route to Hendrick Motorsports' first Daytona 500 victory. This milestone win not only solidified the team's presence in NASCAR but also set the stage for future successes.
Tim Richmond's Comeback Win at Pocono
After missing the first 11 races of the season due to an undisclosed illness, Tim Richmond made a triumphant comeback at Pocono. Qualifying his No. 25 car in third position, Richmond went on to lead 82 laps and ultimately took the checkered flag. This win was a testament to Richmond's determination and skill, as he battled through adversity to secure a memorable victory for Hendrick Motorsports.
Jeff Gordon's Breakthrough at the Coca-Cola 600
In just his second year in the NASCAR Cup Series, Jeff Gordon made waves by grabbing the pole position for the Coca-Cola 600. Showing great poise and skill, Gordon led the final nine laps of the race and clinched his first career Cup Series victory. The win was made even more emotional with Gordon's memorable Victory Lane celebration, cementing his status as a rising star in the sport.
Jeff Gordon's Historic Win at the Inaugural Brickyard 400
Pittsboro, Indiana's own Jeff Gordon etched his name in the history books by becoming the winner of the inaugural Brickyard 400 in 1994. Dominating the race, Gordon re-took the lead with just five laps to go after race-leader Ernie Irvan suffered a tire cut. This victory not only showcased Gordon's talent but also solidified Hendrick Motorsports' position as a force to be reckoned with on the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Hendrick Cars Sweep the Season Opening Daytona 500
In 1997, with team-owner Rick Hendrick battling leukemia at home, the Hendrick cars of Jeff Gordon, Terry Labonte, and Ricky Craven finished 1-2-3 in the season opening Daytona 500. This historic feat was a true testament to the team's resilience and determination, as they overcame adversity to deliver an unforgettable performance on NASCAR's biggest stage.
Jeff Gordon's Record-Tying Victory at Atlanta
Jeff Gordon capped off a historic season in 1998 by winning the season finale at Atlanta. His victory tied the modern-era record with 13 wins in a single season, a remarkable achievement that showcased Gordon's dominance on the track. This milestone victory was made even sweeter as Gordon celebrated his third Cup Series championship, solidifying his status as one of the sport's greats.
Jimmie Johnson's First Career Win at California
In 2002, rookie sensation and hometown driver Jimmie Johnson made headlines by grabbing the checkered flag for the first time in his Cup Series career at California. This victory came in just his 13th career start, showcasing Johnson's remarkable talent and potential. It was the start of a legendary career that would see Johnson go on to win seven Cup Series championships, alongside the likes of Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt.
Kyle Busch's Breakthrough Victory
At the young age of 20, Kyle Busch made his mark in NASCAR by working his way through the field and capturing his first Cup Series victory. Starting in 25th position, Busch led five times for 91 laps and showcased his raw talent and determination. This win set the stage for Busch's future successes and established him as a formidable contender in the sport.
Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s Second Daytona 500 Win
Dale Earnhardt Jr., a fan-favorite and one of the most iconic drivers in NASCAR history, secured his second Daytona 500 victory while driving for Hendrick Motorsports. Holding off a group of legendary drivers on a green-white-checkered finish, Earnhardt Jr. celebrated his first victory in the Great American Race for the team. This win was a special moment for both Earnhardt Jr. and Hendrick Motorsports, solidifying their place in Daytona 500 history.
Jeff Gordon's Final Victory at Martinsville
Jeff Gordon's illustrious career came to a close with a thrilling victory at Martinsville in the NASCAR playoffs. The victory, his 93rd and final win, punched his ticket to the final-four and showcased his unwavering talent and determination. Gordon's Hall of Fame career was filled with memorable wins, and this particular victory sealed his legacy as one of the all-time greats in NASCAR.
Chase Elliott's Breakthrough at Watkins Glen
After coming close to victory numerous times in his first three seasons, Chase Elliott finally broke through at Watkins Glen to capture his first Cup Series victory. This win was a significant milestone for Elliott, as he proved that he had what it takes to compete at the highest level. The victory marked the start of a successful career for Elliott and set the stage for future triumphs.
Chase Elliott's First Cup Series Championship
Chase Elliott capped off a dominant end to his playoff run by winning at Phoenix and earning his first Cup Series championship. With 153 laps led in the race, Elliott showcased his talent and poise under pressure. This milestone victory also solidified Hendrick Motorsports' place among the elite teams in NASCAR, as they celebrated their latest champion.
Kyle Larson's Championship Victory
In 2021, Kyle Larson had a torrid season driving the No. 5 car for Hendrick Motorsports. His impressive campaign culminated in a championship win at Phoenix, where Larson held off the competition to hoist the championship trophy for the first time in his career. This victory was a testament to Larson's skill and marked a new era of success for Hendrick Motorsports.
Kyle Larson's Emotional Victory at Richmond
Kyle Larson's successful 2023 season included a memorable victory at Richmond. Driving the No. 5 Hendrickcars.com Chevrolet, Larson's win was made even more special by the fact that it fell on what would have been Ricky Hendrick's 42nd birthday. The car, bearing a scheme once driven by Ricky Hendrick, went to Victory Lane, paying tribute to the team's legacy and the late Hendrick.
Conclusion
Hendrick Motorsports has had a storied history filled with remarkable victories that have shaped the team's legacy and left an indelible mark on NASCAR. From Geoff Bodine's surprising win at Martinsville to Jeff Gordon's record-breaking season, Jimmie Johnson's championship runs, and the recent triumphs of Chase Elliott and Kyle Larson, Hendrick Motorsports has continuously delivered memorable moments on the track. These wins not only showcased the team's skill and determination but also solidified their place among the sport's greatest teams. As Hendrick Motorsports continues to strive for excellence, fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in their history and the future victories that will undoubtedly add to their legacy.
FAQs
Q: How many victories has Hendrick Motorsports achieved?
A: Hendrick Motorsports has achieved a total of 300 victories in the NASCAR Cup Series.
Q: Who was the first driver to win a Daytona 500 for Hendrick Motorsports?
A: Geoff Bodine was the first driver to win a Daytona 500 for Hendrick Motorsports, securing the team's first-ever victory in the prestigious race.
Q: How many Cup Series championships has Hendrick Motorsports won?
A: Hendrick Motorsports has won a total of 13 Cup Series championships, including wins with drivers such as Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson, and Chase Elliott.
Q: Who is the most successful driver in Hendrick Motorsports' history?
A: Jimmie Johnson is the most successful driver in Hendrick Motorsports' history, having won a record-tying seven Cup Series championships for the team.
Q: What is the significance of Hendrick Motorsports' victory at Richmond in 2023?
A: Kyle Larson's victory at Richmond in 2023 holds special significance as it fell on what would have been Ricky Hendrick's 42nd birthday. The win, with a car bearing a scheme once driven by Ricky Hendrick, serves as a tribute to his memory.
Q: How many championships has Chase Elliott won with Hendrick Motorsports?
A: Chase Elliott has won one Cup Series championship with Hendrick Motorsports, capturing the title in 2020.
References
- NASCAR Research & Archives Center | Getty Images
- Chris Graythen | Getty Images
- William Byron delivered Hendrick Motorsports' 300th victory at Texas Motor Speedway
