Richard Childress and Rick Hendrick, both legendary figures in NASCAR, were inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2017, celebrating their ongoing contributions to the sport. Their early induction highlighted the significance of the Richard Childress NASCAR Hall of Fame milestone while both continued to play active roles in racing.
NASCAR Honors Two Active Icons
Few figures in NASCAR stand out as much as Rick Hendrick and Richard Childress, who have each shaped the history and future of the sport as team owners. Despite anticipating eventual Hall of Fame recognition, both men were surprised when induction came earlier than expected, solidifying their places among the elite while still participating in races and managing teams.
During the 2016 Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Rick Hendrick addressed the timing of their recognition by stating,
“We’re still racing. I understand and think it is right that you get all of the guys in that came before us. I would have felt bad if we’d been early.”
—Rick Hendrick, Team Owner
This sentiment echoed their humility and deference to those who laid the foundations of NASCAR before them. Hendrick emphasized that while he expected such an honor eventually, he believed it would happen after his retirement or later in life, noting,
“I felt our day would come but after several years of being on the ballot and not getting in — one day I’d get in but I thought they’d wait (to elect me) after I retired or died, so I’m glad I didn’t have to retire or die.”
—Rick Hendrick, Team Owner
Rick Hendrick owns Hendrick Motorsports, which has claimed more Cup Series victories than any other team, totaling 317 wins and 14 Cup Series championships. Key drivers such as Kyle Larson, Chase Elliott, William Byron, and Alex Bowman have each contributed to the team’s formidable legacy, with Larson and Elliott having clinched championships for the organization.
Richard Childress, owner of Richard Childress Racing, led his organization to six Cup Series championships with Dale Earnhardt and secured 117 Cup Series victories. These achievements underscore both Childress’s and Hendrick’s enduring influence in NASCAR and their impact on motorsports history.
Continuing Success on the Track
Even after their Hall of Fame induction, both team owners remain actively involved in the sport. Recently, Hendrick Motorsports drew attention before the Dover Cup Series race, revealing striking new paint schemes for their four cars on social media. The organization’s post simply stated, “The calm before the monster.” —HMS Social Media Team
The Monster Mile, as Dover Motor Speedway is nicknamed, set the stage for Hendrick Motorsports to showcase their entries: Kyle Larson in No. 5, Chase Elliott in No. 9, William Byron in No. 24, and Alex Bowman in No. 48. This season, the team amassed five victories: Larson led with wins at Homestead-Miami, Bristol, and Kansas, Byron opened the season by capturing the Daytona 500, and Elliott claimed a win at EchoPark Speedway.
Legacy and the Road Ahead
The early Hall of Fame induction of Richard Childress and Rick Hendrick reflects not just their past accomplishments but also their enduring dedication to NASCAR. As both continue to guide their organizations and secure victories, their presence sets a standard for excellence in the sport. Their ongoing achievements ensure that their influence will persist, inspiring both current competitors and future generations of NASCAR fans and drivers.
