Ross Chastain, who made headlines for his famous “Hail Melon” move, will return to Martinsville next Sunday, eager to showcase why this Virginia track holds a special place in his heart beyond his viral moment. Discussing Ross Chastain Martinsville racing, the Trackhouse Racing driver emphasizes there’s much more fueling his passion for the venue than just a single iconic highlight.
More than Just a Memorable Move
While Chastain’s electrifying wall-ride became instantly celebrated across NASCAR and often defines his career for many fans, he admits its lasting legacy sometimes overshadows his broader achievements. After clinching a milestone Coca-Cola 600 victory at Charlotte this year, and despite being eliminated from the playoffs following the Round of 12, Chastain has maintained strong showings, including consistent top-ten finishes at Martinsville.
Contrary to popular belief, Chastain’s connection to Martinsville extends well beyond nostalgia. Instead, he credits recent progress and a seamless fit with his current team for his affinity with the track. As Chastain explains,
“Martinsville has been pretty good to me since driving for Trackhouse. Obviously, I’ve had one of the biggest moments of my career there, but we’ve been consistently strong there over the last few years. Whatever Phil Surgen does to the car, it really fits my driving style there.”
– Ross Chastain, Driver
Long Road from Humble Beginnings
Reflecting on his journey, Chastain recalls modest beginnings at Martinsville, a time marked by limited resources and challenging odds. In his own words,
“I can remember going to race at Martinsville just a few years with a car that had parts and pieces the other teams were throwing away, so I’ve definitely come a long way, and it’s so much fun to drive a fast car at Martinsville.”
– Ross Chastain, Driver
Now, with Trackhouse Racing and the technical expertise of crew chief Phil Surgen, Chastain’s cars not only offer competitive speed but also align with his racing instincts, evident from his past two top-ten finishes at Martinsville, including both last year’s Xfinity 500 and the spring event, even when starting from 17th and 22nd positions respectively.
Enjoying the Journey on and off the Track
What further sets Martinsville apart for Chastain is the entire experience surrounding race weekend. He values the opportunity to drive to the Virginia track, taking in the autumn scenery and local atmosphere.
“I enjoy driving to the track instead of getting on a plane and flying. It’s a great drive, especially in the fall with all of the leaves changing, and then you arrive in Martinsville and the track sits down the hill, it’s really cool,”
– Ross Chastain, Driver
For Chastain, Martinsville offers a rare combination of challenging competition and peaceful moments, making it a unique fixture on the schedule. The setting provides just as much enjoyment as the racing itself, adding to his positive outlook on each visit.
Looking Ahead as Martinsville Story Continues
Though his “Hail Melon” remains an unforgettable part of NASCAR history, Chastain is determined to script new chapters at Martinsville. As he returns this weekend, the Trackhouse Racing driver isn’t just reliving past glory—he’s actively pursuing another win at the track that elevated his career. Ross Chastain, Phil Surgen, and fans alike will be watching closely as Martinsville once again becomes the backdrop for memorable moments in Ross Chastain Martinsville racing.
