The No. 17 holds a special place in the hearts of the Hendrick family. It’s more than just a number; it’s a legacy. Ricky Hendrick, son of Rick and Linda Hendrick, piloted the No. 17 during his time in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series from 2000 to 2001. On July 7, 2001, Ricky drove that very car to victory lane at Kansas Speedway. Tragically, Ricky was one of the 10 lives lost in a plane accident on October 24, 2004..
Their No. 17 car, driven by the talented Kyle Larson, blazed a trail to victory, marking a significant milestone for the team with a win at COTA Chad Knaus who is a vice president of competition expressed the feelings of boss, Rick Hendrick.
Hendrick Motorsports Insider on the Project 17
🏁 @TeamHendrick VP of Competition @chadknaus said getting the No. 17 car back into Victory Lane meant so much to so many on Saturday ❤️
🥹 "It was just very emotional and a touching time. Really made Mr. Hendrick proud."
More → https://t.co/MKhd9eLXG8 pic.twitter.com/KI2uWcUHSZ
— SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Ch. 90) (@SiriusXMNASCAR) March 26, 2024
As posted by SiriusXM NASCAR on X, Chad Knaus heard emphasizing the importance of their #17 car and how it gave opportunity to young talents under the banner over the years. Chad also mentioned the history stuck with the car of Ricky Hendrick and expressed his emotions.
On the other hand, Jeff Gordon was also impressed with team 24’s amazing performance and he praised the pit crew as well as shed light on their micro mistakes. But overall he expressed that Mr Hendrick was happy to see two victories so far in the season.
🗣️ @JeffGordonWeb says the No. 24 team is "doing something really special right now" on the heels of their second win of 2024.
More from the @TeamHendrick Vice Chairman LIVE right now → https://t.co/5jokqJ2Awj pic.twitter.com/TXMdRocDiN
— SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Ch. 90) (@SiriusXMNASCAR) March 25, 2024
A win on Saturday made history for HMS
When the green flag dropped, it was Kyle Larson who piloted the No. 17 car. Larson, a seasoned driver with a penchant for speed,. His love for the track and the Xfinity Series made this race particularly special. As he climbed into the cockpit, he had one goal: victory.
Kyle Larson, behind the wheel of the No. 17 HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro, orchestrated a thrilling late-race comeback. Starting from the 21st position on lap 46, he maneuvered through the field, capitalizing on fresh tires and a dramatic final-lap clash between Shane Van Gisbergen and Austin Hill. As the checkered flag waved, Larson emerged as the victor, securing the first win for Hendrick Motorsports since their return to the series in 2022 and their first win overall since 2009.
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