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Rick Hendrick had no plans to be at Martinsville Speedway for the Cup Series race at the track on April 29, 1984. The first-year NASCAR team owner had already decided that his organization wasn’t f…
Rick Hendrick initially had no intention of attending the Cup Series race at Martinsville Speedway on April 29, 1984, as he had contemplated shutting down his struggling team, All-Star Racing. However, upon driver Geoff Bodine and crew chief Harry Hyde’s request for more time, they decided to compete in the race. Despite Hendrick’s absence at the event due to a church commitment, Bodine won the race, marking a turning point for the team. This victory sparked a successful trajectory for Hendrick Motorsports, which has since become the most successful organization in NASCAR Cup Series history, with 304 wins and 14 championships. As the team celebrates its 40th anniversary at Martinsville Speedway, the significance of that pivotal race and the perseverance displayed by the team remains a poignant part of the company’s history and legacy. The milestone event will be commemorated with special tributes, including ruby red paint schemes, honoring the journey from that fateful race to the present success of Hendrick Motorsports.
