We’ve done a lot of high-profile events through the years, but none matched the total and complete secrecy required for Dale Earnhardt Jr’s #88 AMP Energy/National Guard unveiling. There was such a fan/media stir over what number, and who the sponsors would be that a “lock down” occurred at our shop while we were readying […]
*Quick Summary: The author is in charge of the race car known as “T-Rex”, and discusses his involvement with it.* I am in charge of the race car named “T-Rex”. There seems to be an increasing amount of racing lore building up about the car, so I thought I’d share my history with it. If […]
If you’re a NASCAR fan, you’ve probably seen a commercial spoof Darrell Waltrip and Jeff Hammond did on the new #48 Lowe’s Chevrolet Car of Tomorrow during the broadcasts. Here are some shots from behind-the-scenes taken by my showcar driver on-site for the shoot. It is funny seeing DW and “Hollywood” Hammond dressed up for […]
*Quick Summary: The author waxes nostalgic while looking at his baby photo, and quickly recaps his family and childhood.* I once heard someone say you should keep a baby picture of yourself on your nightstand. It reminds you where you came from, simultaneously forces you to look at a more innocent version of yourself, and […]
In 2004, we had the opportunity to work on NASCAR 3D: The IMAX Experience. It is always fun to handle supplying the race cars, people, and logistics behind the scenes on a movie, then see the finished product on the big screen. I especially enjoy seeing the children and spouses of my employees in awe […]
Today was an emotional day for a lot of us as we were able to be part of the dedication for The Joe Hendrick Center For Automotive Technology at CPCC. “Papa Joe” was my boss, friend, and mentor. Since his passing in 2004, life has been very different for all of us, his former employees. […]
For the third time, I was on the crew for NC Governor Mike Easley as he drove a Hendrick Motorsports race car around Charlotte Motor Speedway. My department is in charge of preparing the cars he has driven (and sometimes wrecked), so I’ve been closely involved throughout. It is always an interesting experience to hang […]
After one of the guys found a classified ad for one of Ricky Hendrick’s old Late Model cars in a racing magazine, we made some calls. Three of us, all former team members of Ricky’s, then followed up in person. I’ll never forget my feeling opening the barn, and seeing this old friend just sitting […]
*One of Mary Myrick’s best recipes* Ingredients: Combine sugar, cocoa, cornstarch and salt in a 2 qt. glass measuring cup (or other 2 qt. microwave-safe bowl). Slowly whisk in the milk and stir until cornstarch is dissolved. Cook in microwave on High for 7-10 minutes, stirring every two minutes, until mixture begins to thicken. Remove […]
Two of the most inspirational people in my life are Linda Hendrick and her former sister-in-law Cathy Hendrick. They are each an amazing example of Christianity under trial. Here is a great Q&A session with them both regarding their faith in the midst of the Hendrick Motorsports plane crash in 2004.