Back in the 80s and 90s, the world of NASCAR was a dangerous place. With no Hans device, safer barriers, or spec cars, drivers risked their lives every time they stepped onto the racetrack. And while fans were on the edge of their seats, cheering on their favorite drivers, there was always the looming fear of a fatal crash.
One man who knows this fear all too well is legendary NASCAR team owner, Rick Hendrick. In the midst of the intense competition and high stakes, Hendrick found himself on the receiving end of a life-threatening crash during the Michigan 500. But instead of letting this experience discourage him, Hendrick used it as a lesson and a driving force to make the sport safer for everyone involved.
In a recent interview, Hendrick revealed his secret mantra for finding the ‘greatest’ drivers of the modern generation. And it’s not just about their skills on the track, but also their character and determination off the track.
Hendrick believes that the key to success in NASCAR is having a strong team behind you. And that starts with the driver. According to Hendrick, the greatest drivers are the ones who not only have the talent and speed, but also the determination and work ethic to constantly improve and push themselves to the limit.
But it’s not just about the individual driver, it’s also about how they work with their team. Hendrick emphasizes the importance of communication and teamwork within the team, saying, “You have to have a driver that can communicate with the crew chief and the engineers and be able to give them the feedback they need to make the car better.”
Hendrick’s mantra has certainly proven successful, as he has built one of the most successful teams in NASCAR history. With a total of 12 championships and over 250 wins, Hendrick Motorsports is a force to be reckoned with on the track.
But for Hendrick, it’s not just about winning races and championships. It’s also about giving back and making a positive impact on the sport. In the wake of his own near-fatal crash, Hendrick became a strong advocate for safety in NASCAR. He worked closely with NASCAR officials to implement safety measures such as the Hans device and safer barriers, making the sport much safer for drivers.
Hendrick’s dedication to safety and his team’s success has earned him the respect and admiration of his peers in the racing community. Fellow team owner and close friend, Roger Penske, describes Hendrick as “a great leader and a great person,” and praises his ability to bring out the best in his drivers.
And it’s not just his fellow team owners who recognize Hendrick’s impact on the sport. His drivers also have nothing but praise for him. Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, Jimmie Johnson, says, “Rick is a special person. He’s a great leader, a great friend, and a great mentor.”
Hendrick’s mantra for finding the ‘greatest’ drivers of the modern generation goes beyond just their skills on the track. It’s about their character, determination, and ability to work as a team. And it’s clear that his approach has been successful, not just in terms of wins and championships, but also in creating a positive and safe environment for the sport.
As we look to the future of NASCAR, it’s clear that Hendrick’s influence will continue to be felt. His dedication to safety and his ability to bring out the best in his drivers will undoubtedly shape the next generation of NASCAR stars. And for that, we can all be grateful to the legendary team owner who has left an indelible mark on the sport.
