Rick Hendrick is proud of his team’s successful final lap run in the Cook Out 400 at Martinsville. This race marked a significant moment for Hendrick Motorsports, as they achieved a 1-2-3 finish on the weekend that commemorated their 40th anniversary of their first Cup race victory in 1984. This victory was crucial for the team, as it helped them overcome financial difficulties and paved the way for their dominance in the sport.
During the final restart, Chase Elliott emerged as the winner, surpassing his teammates William Byron and Larson. This intense battle for the win created a sense of anxiety for team owner Rick Hendrick, who was unable to attend the race due to medical issues. He feared that something catastrophic could happen to his three drivers as they fought for victory.
When discussing the win with the media on Monday, Hendrick expressed his relief that Elliott and Byron raced each other fiercely but fairly. He admitted that watching them compete made him tense, as he worried about potential crashes that could involve Larson. Fortunately, the trio displayed clean racing, demonstrating the sportsmanship expected of them.
In addition to the victory, Hendrick found joy in celebrating with his family. His wife Linda, daughter Lynn, son-in-law, and grandchildren Henry and Kate were present at their home to commemorate this milestone win. This achievement serves as a testament to the time and financial investments Hendrick has made in the sport, and it indicates that more significant milestones are on the horizon. The team’s current form suggests that they are poised for success, and they hope to secure a championship win in the Next-Gen era, potentially in 2024.