Kyle Larson, one of Hendrick Motorsports’ most accomplished drivers, has numerous milestones to his name. Recently, he secured a win in Rick Hendrick’s #17 Xfinity car, a car previously driven by Rick’s son Ricky Hendrick. The entire Hendrick Motorsports team was elated that Larson brought a victory to the car after a long time.
Hendrick Motorsports has a poignant history, as Rick Hendrick tragically passed away in a plane crash while en route to a NASCAR event at Martinsville in 2004.
Kyle Larson expresses his emotions towards Martinsville
Kyle Larson won a year ago at Martinsville. He knew it would be a big win for Hendrick Motorsports, which has a deep history of triumph and sadness at the track. He explains: pic.twitter.com/HhiD5cSGSt
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) April 1, 2024
Recently, Bob Pockrass questioned Larson about his victory at Martinsville last year, as drivers prepared to head to Martinsville for the upcoming race. Given the deep historical significance of the track for the team, Larson’s win last year held special importance.
Larson expressed his desire to win at Martinsville and acknowledged the significance of victory at the track. He admitted that neither he nor his crew chief had expected to win there. Larson mentioned that while the tragedy surrounding Martinsville wasn’t frequently discussed, it remained on everyone’s mind. He emphasized the team’s commitment to performing well every time they race at Martinsville.
What happened with Ricky Hendrick in 2004?
Ricky Hendrick was aboard a Beech 200 aircraft that took off from the team base in Concord, North Carolina. Unfortunately, the plane crashed in the mountains at Bull Ridge, approximately seven miles from its intended destination at Martinsville. All ten people on board lost their lives in the tragic accident.
Among the victims were Ricky Hendrick, his twin nieces Kimberley and Jennifer, and his brother John Hendrick, who served as the President of the Hendrick organization. Additionally, Jeff Turner, the Vice President and General Manager of Hendrick Motorsport, and Randy Dorton, the team’s chief engine builder, were also among those who perished.
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