Jeff Gordon honors HMS ally Asly Ennis by presenting her with the first Jon Edwards Excellence in Public Relations Award, introduced in memory of the celebrated NASCAR public relations figure. The special ceremony took place on January 14, 2026, in Mooresville, North Carolina, marking a significant moment for Hendrick Motorsports and the NASCAR community.
The Jon Edwards Excellence in Public Relations Award was established by the Cup Series team to remember Jon Edwards, a respected PR representative who passed away in April 2025. Edwards was deeply involved with Hendrick Motorsports, collaborating for many years with drivers like Kyle Larson and Jeff Gordon. His reputation was built on integrity, mentorship, and a true passion for stock car racing, making the award in his honor especially meaningful within the sport.
Asly Ennis Becomes the First Award Recipient
Asly Ennis, currently serving as Director of Racing Communications for Hendrick Motorsports, received the inaugural award in front of her colleagues and industry peers. In 2025, Ennis played an essential role as the PR representative for the #24 Chevrolet team, supporting driver William Byron. Her dedication and performance in this role led to her selection as the award’s first honoree.
During the award presentation, Jeff Gordon expressed his admiration for Ennis, emphasizing her accomplishments and the high regard in which she is held by her peers.
“You’re amazing at what you do. I did not know this is happening, but I’m so proud, so happy. There’s very deserving people in this room, but I don’t know if there’s any more deserving right now at this moment than you. You’ve earned it. You deserve it, so congratulations.”
– Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman, Hendrick Motorsports
Hendrick Motorsports’ Recent Triumphs and Legacy
The celebration of Ennis’s award comes soon after another accomplishment for Hendrick Motorsports, which captured its 15th NASCAR Cup Series championship in the 2025 season. Kyle Larson, driving the #5 Chevy Camaro ZL1, clinched the title after outperforming long-time rival Denny Hamlin in the decisive Phoenix Raceway event, securing his own second championship and adding to the team’s storied legacy.
Jeff Gordon’s Enduring Impact On and Off the Track
Jeff Gordon’s career with Hendrick Motorsports began in 1992 when he debuted in the Cup Series with the #24 Chevrolet. Over the course of his driving career, Gordon won four championships and retired in 2015 as one of NASCAR’s most accomplished drivers. That year, Gordon transitioned into a broadcasting role with FOX Sports, where he spent six years before making a significant return to Hendrick Motorsports in 2021 as vice chairman.
Gordon’s deep connection to the team and sport was apparent when he reflected on his return:
“I cannot put into words what Hendrick Motorsports means to me. In many ways, it’s my home, and the people here are my family. I’ve never lost my passion for the organization, for our sport, and for the sheer challenge of racing and winning at the highest level. Being part of the competition is where I’m happiest and feel I can make the biggest contribution to the continued, long-term success of the team.”
– Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman, Hendrick Motorsports
Throughout his 25-year Cup Series career, Gordon achieved 93 race wins, 326 top-five and 477 top-ten finishes, 81 pole positions, and led nearly 25,000 laps in 805 starts. His average start and finish positions of 10.5 and 12.51, respectively, further demonstrate his consistency and skill as a driver.
Significance of the Award and What Lies Ahead
The establishment of the Jon Edwards Excellence in Public Relations Award signals a growing recognition of PR professionals’ vital role in NASCAR’s success. By honoring Asly Ennis’s contributions, Jeff Gordon and Hendrick Motorsports highlight the importance of effective communication and dedication behind the scenes. As the team looks ahead to future seasons with accomplished leaders like Ennis in key roles, the legacy of professionals like Jon Edwards continues to inspire excellence throughout the organization and the sport.
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— NASCAR Communications (@NASCAR_Comms) January 15, 2026
