Rick Hendrick
About Rick Hendrick
Rick Hendrick is the owner of Hendrick Motorsports and a prominent figure in the automotive and racing industries, known for his successful business ventures and numerous accolades.
Rick Hendrick: Owner of Hendrick Motorsports
Rick Hendrick is the owner of Hendrick Motorsports, a prominent team in NASCAR racing. Born on July 12, 1949, in Warrenton, North Carolina, Hendrick developed an early passion for automobiles. He rebuilt his first car, a 1931 Chevrolet, at the age of 14. Under his leadership, Hendrick Motorsports has become one of the most successful NASCAR teams. His accomplishments in the racing world have been recognized with inductions into both the NASCAR Hall of Fame and the International Motorsports Hall of Fame.
Rick Hendrick's Early Life and Background
Rick Hendrick was raised on a tobacco farm near Palmer Springs, Virginia. He moved to Raleigh, North Carolina, after high school to participate in a co-op program with North Carolina State University and Westinghouse Electric Corp. Hendrick's entrepreneurial spirit emerged early in his career when he became the youngest Chevy dealer in the United States at age 26. He turned a struggling Chevrolet dealership in Bennettsville, South Carolina, into the most profitable dealership in the region.
Rick Hendrick's Leadership at Hendrick Automotive Group
Rick Hendrick serves as the chairman and CEO of Hendrick Automotive Group, a leading network of car dealerships. His leadership has significantly influenced the automotive industry. The group's success illustrates his profound understanding and passion for the automobile business, qualities he developed from working with his father, 'Papa Joe,' and setting world records in drag boats before shifting back to stock car racing.
Rick Hendrick's Health and Philanthropic Contributions
Rick Hendrick is a leukemia survivor who has used his experience to help others. He co-founded the Hendrick Family Foundation with his wife Linda in 2016 to support various charitable causes. The foundation's mission is to make a positive impact on countless lives, reflecting Hendrick's commitment to giving back to the community.
Rick Hendrick's Recognitions and Awards
Rick Hendrick's contributions to the automotive and racing industries have earned him numerous accolades. He was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2017 and the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in 2013. He has received the Horatio Alger Award, NASCAR’s Bill France Award of Excellence, and The Order of the Long Leaf Pine. Additionally, he was honored with the Automotive News Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014, showcasing his substantial impact on the industry.