30 Facts About Rick Hendrick

Early Life and Background

Rick Hendrick, a name synonymous with NASCAR, has an intriguing backstory. Let's dive into some lesser-known facts about his early life and background.

1. Born on July 12, 1949, in Warrenton, North Carolina, Rick Hendrick grew up on a farm, which instilled a strong work ethic in him from a young age.
2. His full name is Joseph Riddick Hendrick III, but he is widely known as Rick.
3. Hendrick's passion for cars started early; he built his first car at the age of 14.
4. He attended Park View High School in South Hill, Virginia, where he excelled in both academics and sports.
5. After high school, he enrolled at North Carolina State University, initially pursuing a degree in business administration.

Career Beginnings

Rick Hendrick's career didn't start in NASCAR. His journey to becoming a motorsport mogul had humble beginnings.

6. At 23, he co-founded a small used-car lot with Mike Leith, which eventually grew into the Hendrick Automotive Group.
7. In 1976, he became the youngest Chevrolet dealer in the United States.
8. Hendrick's first foray into racing was in drag racing, where he won the Virginia division championship at age 16.
9. He founded All-Star Racing in 1984, which later became Hendrick Motorsports, one of the most successful teams in NASCAR history.
10. His first NASCAR win came in 1984 with driver Geoff Bodine at Martinsville Speedway.

Hendrick Motorsports

Hendrick Motorsports is a powerhouse in NASCAR, thanks to Rick Hendrick's leadership and vision.

11. Hendrick Motorsports has won 14 NASCAR Cup Series championships, making it one of the most successful teams in the sport.
12. The team has over 280 Cup Series wins, a record in NASCAR.
13. Some of the most famous drivers who have raced for Hendrick include Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson, and Dale Earnhardt Jr.
14. Jimmie Johnson, driving for Hendrick, won seven Cup Series championships, tying the record held by Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt.
15. Hendrick Motorsports is headquartered in Concord, North Carolina, and employs over 500 people.

Personal Life

Rick Hendrick's personal life is as fascinating as his professional one. Here are some interesting tidbits.

16. He married his high school sweetheart, Linda, and they have two children, Ricky and Lynn.
17. Tragically, his son Ricky Hendrick died in a plane crash in 2004, along with nine other people.
18. Rick Hendrick is a cancer survivor, having battled leukemia in the late 1990s.
19. He is known for his philanthropy, particularly through the Hendrick Family Foundation, which supports various charitable causes.
20. Hendrick is an avid fisherman and enjoys spending time on his yacht, "Wheels."

Awards and Honors

Rick Hendrick's contributions to motorsports and business have earned him numerous accolades.

21. He was inducted into the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in 2013.
22. In 2017, he was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame.
23. Hendrick received the Horatio Alger Award in 2016, recognizing his perseverance and success despite personal and professional challenges.
24. He has been named one of the "50 Most Influential People in NASCAR" multiple times by various publications.
25. Hendrick was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, North Carolina's highest civilian honor, in 2014.

Business Ventures

Beyond racing, Rick Hendrick has made significant strides in the business world.

26. Hendrick Automotive Group is the sixth-largest automotive dealership group in the United States.
27. The group operates over 100 dealerships across 14 states, selling more than 200,000 vehicles annually.
28. Hendrick is also involved in the marine industry, owning several yacht dealerships.
29. He has a keen interest in real estate and has invested in numerous properties over the years.
30. Rick Hendrick's net worth is estimated to be over $1 billion, making him one of the wealthiest individuals in motorsports.

Rick Hendrick: A Legacy of Success

Rick Hendrick's journey through the world of motorsports and business is nothing short of remarkable. From founding Hendrick Motorsports to becoming a NASCAR legend, his dedication and passion have left an indelible mark. His achievements extend beyond the racetrack, with philanthropic efforts and a successful automotive empire.

Hendrick's story is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and vision. His influence on NASCAR and the automotive industry continues to inspire many. Whether it's his record-breaking wins or his commitment to giving back, Rick Hendrick's legacy is one of excellence and generosity.

As you reflect on these facts, it's clear that Rick Hendrick is more than just a name in racing; he's a symbol of success and determination. His contributions will be remembered for generations, cementing his place as a true icon in motorsports and beyond.