Ryan Blaney Triumphs: The NASCAR Champions Week came to a thrilling close at the Music City Center with Ryan Blaney ascending to the pinnacle of the sport by seizing the NASCAR Cup Series title. His triumph involved outdueling three formidable Championship 4 contenders at Phoenix Raceway on November 5th.
Blaney, at 29, secured the championship by crossing the finish line second in the season finale, edging out Playoff drivers Kyle Larson and William Byron. This victory marked not just his inaugural Cup championship but also secured the second consecutive win for team owner Roger Penske.
In an emotional address following a warm welcome to the stage by NASCAR president Steve Phelps and with the backing of one of his favorite bands, Whiskey Myers, Blaney reflected on his journey rooted in a racing family lineage, including his father, Dave Blaney, and uncle, Dale Blaney.
Acknowledging his racing lineage, Blaney attributed his success to his upbringing and lauded team owner Roger Penske for standing by him throughout the last decade. Blaneys heartfelt sentiments highlighted his admiration for Penske, emphasizing a profound respect for Penske’s influence not just in NASCAR but across motorsport disciplines.
The NASCAR Champions Week also featured other noteworthy moments, including Chase Elliot securing the National Motorsports Press Association Most Popular Driver Award for the sixth consecutive year. The event saw Ty Gibbs crowned Sunoco Rookie of the Year, acknowledging his exceptional performance in his inaugural full-time season, marked by ten top-10 finishes.
The evening was peppered with touching moments, including Kevin Harvick‘s touching farewell to full-time Cup racing after 23 seasons and Brad Keselowski’s optimistic outlook for the progress made by Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing in the 2023 season.
Cole Custer’s triumphant return to the Xfinity Series, securing the championship after three challenging years in the top division, stood as a testament to his maturity and growth, celebrated by team owner Gene Haas.
In the Craftsman Truck Series, Ben Rhodes clinched his second title for ThorSport Racing, praising his team’s resilience amid adversity and expressing gratitude for their unwavering support throughout the season.
The evenings celebration also recognized exemplary individuals contributing to various causes. Molly Moran of Comfort Zone Camp received the prestigious Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award, while Ryan Vargas was honored as Comcast Community Champion of the Year for his work with FACES, the National Craniofacial Association.
The festivities concluded with a tribute to Sherry Pollex, partner of 2017 Cup Series champion Martin Truex Jr., who valiantly battled ovarian cancer for nine years, leaving behind an indelible mark.
The NASCAR Champions Week not only celebrated racing excellence but also acknowledged the humanity, perseverance, and profound impact of individuals both on and off the track.
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Our Reader’s Queries
Has Ryan Blaney ever won a race?
Blaney boasts an impressive track record with seven career victories in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and four in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series. His exceptional driving skills have earned him a well-deserved reputation as a top contender in the racing world. With a proven track record of success, Blaney is a force to be reckoned with on the track.
Why did Blaney hit Chastain?
Blaney admitted to intentionally hitting Chastain from behind, stating, “Yes, I hit him on purpose.” Blaney claimed that Chastain had blocked him intentionally multiple times, leading to his decision to retaliate.
Did Dave Blaney ever win a race?
Despite his age, he continues to participate in several races annually, including those with the World of Outlaws. Recently, he achieved his 95th victory with the Series at Sharon Speedway, which he also owns. This year, he will once again take the wheel of his #10 Sprint Car for the Lou Blaney Memorial at Sharon Speedway on August 7th.
What is Ryan Blaney’s annual salary?
Ryan Blaney’s estimated annual salary is a whopping $2 million. In terms of career victories, as of 2023, he has secured an impressive 7 wins in the NASCAR Cup Series.
