The Short List Of The Best Nascar Drivers

 

Over the past 60 years, the National Association of Stock Car Auto Racing (better known as NASCAR), has captivated millions of fans with sleek cars and photo finishes.  But what makes NASCAR truly worthwhile is the drivers themselves.  Thousands of drivers are given licenses to compete at various levels.  Let’s take a look at some of the biggest names in the sport today.

Dale Earnhardt, Jr. (Hendrick Motorsports; #88)

Earnhardt is a favorite among the younger NASCAR fans with his youthful image.  He also become heir to many of his dad’s fans when Dale Earnhardt, Sr. died in a tragic auto racing accident in 2001.  Here are some of his career highlights:

  • In 1998 and 1999, he was champion in the Busch series.
  • In 2000, his first full year in NEXTEL racing, he won twice (Texas Motor Speedway and Richmond International Raceway).
  • In 2003, he finished with a career high (ranked third in the points race).
  • In 2007, he leaves Dale Earnhardt, Inc. and joins up with Hendrick Motorspots the following year.

Jeff Gordon (Hendrick Motorsports; #24)

Gordon has been racing since 1992, when he debuted in a single race that year.  The next year, he became rookie of the year and has been drawing in fans ever since.  In the late 1990s, he became known as a dominating player.  Here are some of his career highlights:

  • In 1991, he won Rookie of the Year in the Busch series.  Two years later, he won NEXTEL Rookie of the Year honors.
  • In 1995, 1997, 1998, and 2001, he was the NEXTEL cup champion.

Jimmie Johnson (Hendrick Motorsports; #48)

Johnson started his first full season with flare, taking pole position at the Daytona 500 and it’s been gravy ever since.  Jeff Gordon, his mentor, is part owner of the team. Here are some of his career highlights:

  • In 2003 and 2004, finished second in the NEXTEL points race.
  • In 2006 and 2007, he was the NEXTEL cup champion.

Kasey Kahne (Evernham Motorsports; #9)

Kahne’s career began in 2004, when he won the Raybestos Rookie of the Year award for finishing near the top 10.  He’s a smart player who paces himself and keeps his car intact.  Here are some of his career highlights:

  • In 2000, he was the Siler Crown Rookie of the Year and USAC Midget Series Champ
  • In 2004, he was NASCAR’s NEXTEL Rookie of the Year
  • In 2005, he won his first race at Richmond International Speedway.

This is just a small sample of some of the drivers out there.  There are many other terrific drivers—Tony Stewart, Matt Kenseth, Martin Truex, Jr., Kurt Busch, Casey Mears, Mark Martin, Ryan Newman, Jamie McMurray, and more.  For a complete list of NASCAR drivers, visit ESPN’s website, CBS Sportsline or simply go to NASCAR.com.  They have both career stats and full biographies on all your favorites.

 

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