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David Gilliland: From Racing Prodigy to NASCAR Powerhouse

Publisher by Publisher
January 28, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
0
David Gilliland: From Racing Prodigy to NASCAR Powerhouse

Feb 16, 2024; Daytona Beach, Florida, USA; NASCAR Truck Series team owner David Gilliland during the Fresh From Florida 250 at Daytona International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

ew names resonate as deeply in NASCAR’s rich tapestry as David Gilliland. From his beginnings as a driver to his current reign as a team owner, Gilliland has etched his name into the sport’s history, not just through his own accomplishments but through his ability to nurture future stars. With TRICON Garage flourishing in the Craftsman Truck Series and a partnership with Martin Truex Jr. for the iconic Daytona 500, Gilliland continues to redefine success.

A Legacy Rooted in Racing Passion

Growing up in Riverside, California, David Gilliland was destined for motorsports. His father, Butch Gilliland, was a celebrated NASCAR West Series champion and former Cup Series competitor, providing David with an early glimpse into the racing world. Starting out in 1996, David worked in his father’s team, laying the foundation for what would become an illustrious career as both a driver and team owner.

Racing Glory: A Career of Highlights

David’s NASCAR career hit its stride in the Xfinity Series, where he famously claimed victory at Kentucky Speedway in 2006, an upset that catapulted him into the national spotlight. The following year, he transitioned to the Cup Series, immediately making waves by clinching the Daytona 500 pole and later securing a remarkable third-place finish in 2011.

Perhaps his most tenacious performance came in the 2018 Daytona 500, where he piloted a backup car from Ricky Benton Racing to a 14th-place finish, overcoming immense odds. While his racing career included moments of brilliance, his journey ultimately pivoted toward a new passion: team ownership.

Carrying the Torch: Todd Gilliland’s Rise

David’s son, Todd Gilliland, continues the family legacy in NASCAR, driving the No. 34 Ford Mustang for Front Row Motorsports—a number made iconic by David himself during his driving tenure. The significance wasn’t lost on Todd, who reflected, “This isn’t just another ride; it’s a legacy. Watching my dad race the No. 34 Love’s Ford made this feel like destiny.”

A Visionary Team Owner

In 2015, David began transitioning into team ownership, founding David Gilliland Racing (DGR) with the mission to develop his son’s talent and mentor other aspiring drivers. By 2022, the team underwent a major transformation, rebranding to TRICON Garage and forging a partnership with Toyota Racing Development. The move to Toyota solidified the team’s status as a powerhouse, bringing in top-tier talent and resources.

Now, TRICON fields a star-studded lineup in the Craftsman Truck Series, including Corey Heim, Toni Breidinger, and Gio Ruggiero, while also collaborating with NASCAR stalwart Martin Truex Jr. for the Daytona 500.

A Lasting Impact

David Gilliland’s journey from underdog driver to industry leader is a testament to his resilience and vision. Whether it’s guiding his son Todd to greatness or building a championship-caliber team in TRICON Garage, Gilliland remains a cornerstone of NASCAR’s present and future.

As he works alongside legends like Martin Truex Jr. and cultivates emerging stars, one thing is clear: David Gilliland isn’t just part of NASCAR’s story—he’s shaping its future.

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