The Ryan Blaney foundation remembers Kate Blaney as the cherished matriarch of the Blaney family following her passing on July 14, marking a moment of reflection for one of American racing’s most significant lineages. The family, closely knit both on and off the track, is honoring her legacy as they continue to make their mark in motorsports.
Kate Blaney, known among NASCAR circles for her deep connections to the sport, quietly shaped the success of the prominent Blaney racing family. As the wife of legendary modified and sprint car racer Lou Blaney, Kate supported the family’s racing pursuits while remaining primarily out of the spotlight. She was best known as the mother of future racers Dave Blaney, who continues the motorsport legacy as Ryan Blaney’s father, and Dale Blaney, both of whom found their own success on the racetrack.
Lou and Kate Blaney raised their sons to excel in the fiercely competitive world of racing. Dave Blaney’s path in motorsports paved the way for his son Ryan Blaney, who now competes in the NASCAR Cup Series, preserving the family’s tradition of racing excellence. Dale Blaney has similarly built a respected racing career, furthering the family’s prominence within the sport.
Recently, the Ryan Blaney Family Foundation paid tribute to Kate Blaney in a heartfelt post shared on X, reflecting on her enduring spirit and the positive influence she had on those around her.
“We will always remember Kate as the kind, beautiful, and endlessly giving woman that she was. A soul full of life, strength, and grace. Rest easy, dear Kate. We love you always. #rbff”
—Ryan Blaney Family Foundation
Kate Blaney’s Impact on the Racing Community
While Lou Blaney became a legend behind the wheel in both modified and sprint car racing, Kate’s steady presence provided support and stability behind the scenes. Her reputation among racing families and fans grew as the matriarch who helped nurture future generations of racers, ensuring the Blaney family’s legacy would endure through her sons Dave and Dale, and grandson Ryan.
Kate’s dedication is often mentioned by those who knew her, with her influence extending throughout the garage and paddock. The Blaney matriarch’s warmth and generosity left a lasting mark on the community, reinforcing the foundation of one of America’s best-known motorsport dynasties.
Ryan Blaney’s Achievements in a Challenging Season
This season, Ryan Blaney’s journey in the NASCAR Cup Series has showcased both resilience and moments of brilliance, beginning with an impressive seventh-place finish at the Daytona 500. Despite facing hurdles that included multiple DNFs, Blaney broke through with a commanding victory at Nashville Superspeedway, leading 139 laps and securing a well-earned win after a streak of tough races.
Blaney, representing Team Penske, has participated in 17 races this season and has consistently performed at a high level, recording seven top-five finishes, eight top-ten results, and earning a pole position. His average finish hovers around 16th place, cementing his position within the playoff bracket and maintaining the Blaney family’s strong presence at the highest levels of NASCAR competition.
Drivers Recognize Shane van Gisbergen’s Road Course Talents
Shane van Gisbergen has drawn widespread attention in the NASCAR community for his road course dominance, most recently at Sonoma Raceway, where he claimed victory after leading nearly every lap from pole position. Ryan Blaney himself acknowledged van Gisbergen’s exceptional skills on these tracks, noting how his strategic driving and tire management set him apart.
“He’s (Shane van Gisbergen) really good. He’s really smooth, and he’s really fast with lap time, but he also is not out of control doing it, so he can save tires while maintaining a solid lap time to keep him up front. He’s just put on a clinic on these road courses, and in the last 3 from Mexico and Chicago and here (Sonoma), he’s really dominated,”
said Blaney [via Frontstretch] —Ryan Blaney, NASCAR Cup Series Driver
“He’s just really technical at how he does it and his approach to it, he’s just really, really solid race car driver. We’re all going to have to get a lot better at these places to have a chance.”
—Ryan Blaney, NASCAR Cup Series Driver
Blaney emphasized that van Gisbergen’s calculated and technical style allows him to stay consistently fast without overdriving, presenting a challenge for other drivers seeking to compete at the same level.
The Enduring Influence of the Blaney Family
The passing of Kate Blaney has brought both sadness and unity to the Blaney family and the wider racing community. As Ryan Blaney continues to excel in the NASCAR Cup Series, the lessons and values passed down from his grandmother remain central to the family’s ethos. Kate Blaney’s legacy continues to inspire those around her, solidifying her place in racing history.
Looking ahead, the Ryan Blaney foundation remembers Kate Blaney through ongoing charitable work and by celebrating her unparalleled impact on the sport’s next generations. The Blaney family remains devoted to honoring her memory, on and off the track, ensuring her contributions to American motorsports are never forgotten.
