In the high-stakes world of NASCAR, first impressions often dictate the trajectory of teammate relationships. Drawing parallels to the famous rivalry-turned-partnership between Dale Earnhardt Sr. and Jeff Gordon, we recount the story of Jack Sprague and the late Ricky Hendrick, son of team owner Rick Hendrick.
Sprague, a seasoned veteran in the racing industry, initially harbored reservations about racing alongside the young heir to the Hendrick Motorsports dynasty. He feared that Ricky, being a “rich kid”, might lack the necessary understanding of the grit and tenacity required to excel in the sport. Yet, as time passed, Sprague’s initial apprehensions dissolved, giving way to a deep admiration for Ricky, both as a driver and a person.
The turning point in their relationship came during the July 2001 inaugural CRAFTSMAN Truck Series event at Kansas Speedway. This marked the first race of Ricky’s career, and he was just 21 at the time. With former HMS crew chief Lance McGrew on their side, the young racer stunned everyone by clinching his first victory. This marked the beginning of Ricky’s promising career and the dissolution of Sprague’s skepticism.
Despite Ricky’s youth and inexperience, he showcased a passion for racing that transcended his years. Sprague fondly recalls on the Dale Jr. Download podcast, how Ricky’s enthusiasm and talent disproved his initial doubts. He praised Ricky as not just a competent driver, but a remarkable individual who contributed to their team’s success, including their 2001 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Cup win.
Ricky’s driving prowess was evident as he bagged 23 top 10s and a victory in the 2001 O’Reilly Auto Parts 250 within just two years. However, what truly resonated with Sprague was Ricky’s character. The veteran racer shared poignant memories of Ricky’s kindness, recalling how he would color with Sprague’s daughter, revealing a sensitive and caring side to his personality.
Tragically, Ricky’s flourishing career was cut short on October 24, 2004, when a plane bound for Martinsville Speedway crashed, taking the lives of ten passengers, including Ricky. The event sent shockwaves through the NASCAR community as they mourned the loss of a promising talent and the son of team owner Rick Hendrick.
Ricky’s untimely death left an indelible mark on the sport. In the wake of his passing, Hendrick Motorsports, NASCAR, and fans worldwide commemorated his legacy. His leadership, dedication, and impact on his teammates and the sport remain etched in the memory of many.
Hendrick Motorsports has since honored Ricky in numerous ways, from dedicating victories to him to continuing to race the No. 5 car, a number closely associated with Ricky. They also draw inspiration from Ricky’s business acumen to continue their success, a testament to his enduring influence despite his early retirement in 2002.
Ricky’s father, Rick Hendrick, admitted that the loss of his son reshaped their organization and fortified their sense of unity. He asserted that Ricky’s passion for the sport served as a beacon of hope in their darkest hours. Ricky’s absence is deeply felt, with many within the team believing he would have eventually taken over, propelling Hendrick Motorsports to even greater heights.
Ricky Hendrick’s legacy continues to inspire and motivate young drivers at Hendrick Motorsports. His dedication, work ethic, and kindness are values that the team strives to imbibe. His life may have been cut short, but his influence lives on, reverberating with every car that rolls out from the Hendrick garage.
