Ryan Blaney won more than just a race on Sunday at New Hampshire Motor Speedway—he finally claimed the sought-after lobster trophy, a symbol he has been chasing throughout his career. This win marked a notable moment for Blaney and his fans, as the tradition of awarding the NHMS victor with a live lobster from Makris Restaurant is one of the most unique in the Cup Series.
A Historic and Singular NASCAR Trophy Tradition
The live lobster trophy tradition began in 2008, when Kurt Busch became the first winner to lift the trophy, later donating it to a local aquarium. Since then, the crustacean has represented both a memorable photo opportunity and a quirky goal for drivers hoping to add their name to the list of NHMS champions. For Blaney, who has faced his share of challenges at Loudon, the experience was deeply meaningful and marked a significant achievement among the Cup Series greats.
Childhood Aspirations Come True
For years, Blaney dreamed of joining the group of racers who got to hold the lobster in Victory Lane. His long-standing admiration for the trophy was clear when he expressed,
“I watched a lot of races here growing up, whether I was here or watching on TV. The lobster is the coolest thing in Victory Lane. I’ve been wanting to hold that fucking lobster for like 30 years. I’ve been wanting to hold that thing up from Victory Lane just because I saw guys doing it when I was growing up, and it was just the coolest thing ever,”
Ryan Blaney, Driver. He also emphasized,
“It’s funny like tracks have certain trophies that catches your eye as a kid, and this is one of them. That’s something I’ve wanted to do since I was a kid. Sorry for swearing. The lobster is cool, man. It’s so cool,”
Ryan Blaney, Driver.
A Weekend to Remember in New England
Blaney’s appreciation extended to the setting, as he complimented the regional atmosphere by saying,
“I was lucky with the weather. Couldn’t ask for a better weekend,”
Ryan Blaney, Driver. The event took place amid the picturesque scenery of New England in September, where loyal fans gathered to witness the race and support their favorite drivers. The environment and energy around Loudon added to the special nature of Blaney’s victory.
The Lobster: Prize and Personal Delight
Blaney confirmed his enthusiasm for the lobster itself, revealing his enjoyment of the pre-race festivities and his taste for shellfish:
“I love lobster. I was part of the lobster bake last night that Marcus threw. Downed it,”
Ryan Blaney, Driver. This fondness stood in stark contrast to Denny Hamlin‘s reaction in 2017:
“I’m not going to do anything with it. I’ve seen it and touched it for the last time. I have a lobster phobia. I just don’t like them. I can’t look at it,”
Denny Hamlin, Driver.
Hard-Earned Success on the Track
The path to victory was not easy. Blaney, representing Team Penske in the No. 12 car, showcased strong racing skills by leading 116 of the 301 laps. He moved past Josh Berry on Lap 263, though Berry—a Wood Brothers rookie—remained in close pursuit, pushing Blaney to fight for every position through the final laps. Blaney’s effort and competitive spirit paid off as he crossed the finish line first, securing the trophy he had always wanted.
A Win Years in the Making
By the end of the race, Blaney held his long-anticipated prize—the 18-to-22-pound lobster that has eluded him until now. His victory at Loudon is not just a personal triumph, but a memorable chapter in the ongoing story of the Cup Series and one that further cements the allure of the lobster trophy tradition for racers and fans alike. With this achievement, Blaney joins the ranks of drivers who have truly made history at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway.
