In the high-octane world of NASCAR, Chase Elliott, now on the cusp of 30, candidly reflects on his decade-long journey, the triumphs, the trials, and the transformational life experiences that have shaped his career.
Two decades ago, at the 2002 Pennsylvania 500 at Pocono Raceway, a young Chase Elliott sat in the stands, eyes wide with excitement as he watched his father, “Awesome Bill from Dawsonville”, aggressively maneuver his way to victory. The experience was the spark that ignited young Elliott’s NASCAR dreams.
Fast forward to today, and Chase Elliott is not just a mere spectator but a formidable competitor in the Cup Series. His illustrious career is punctuated by many high points, including his monumental 2020 NASCAR Cup Championship win. However, his journey hasn’t been devoid of challenges.
Elliott’s 2021 season nearly culminated in a back-to-back Cup Series Championship, but a disappointing Phoenix race dashed those hopes. Still, he bounced back in 2022, clinching five impressive victories that remain etched in the memories of fans.
Despite a challenging period that saw him sit out most of one season due to a tussle with Denny Hamlin and a broken foot, Elliott remained undeterred. He used this setback as a learning opportunity, choosing to view it as a ‘bump in the road’, rather than a roadblock.
As he nears his 30th birthday, Elliott reflects on his career and the transformative journey it has been. “It’s just honestly crazy that it’s been that long”, he admits. He likens each season to a different book, each distinct and offering unique experiences.
Elliott made his Cup Series debut in 2015 at the STP 500 as a 20-year-old eager to emulate his father’s success. Despite a rain threat and no owner’s points, he managed to secure a starting spot. Though a crash led to a disappointing 38th place finish, it marked the beginning of his ascent to stardom.
Now, Elliott looks forward to his next race at the EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix at the Circuit of The Americas (COTA) on March 2nd. His history at COTA is a mixed bag. In 2021, he celebrated his first victory at the track, albeit in a rain-shortened event. The following year, he finished a respectable 4th, but a leg injury in 2023 sidelined him. Last year, he returned but finished in a less-than-satisfactory 16th place.
Despite these setbacks, Elliott’s road racing expertise makes him a formidable competitor at COTA. As he prepares for the 2025 race, he remains optimistic about his chances. He plans to leverage technology, like simulators, to familiarize himself with the circuit’s layout before the race.
Elliott’s decade-long journey in NASCAR is not just about the wins, the losses, or the trophies. It’s about the personal growth, the evolution, and the life-changing experiences that have shaped him into the driver he is today. As he steps into his thirties, Elliott is not just a seasoned driver; he’s a testament to resilience, determination, and the relentless pursuit of success.