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Kyle Petty says Rick Hendrick has built a ‘huge mountain’ in NASCAR

Originally posted on 5 GOATs | By Jonathan Howard | Last updated 10/8/23

With 300 wins in the Cup Series, more than 500 engine wins, and more – Rick Hendrick has built a behemoth in NASCAR. Dynasty is a word used in sports, but it doesn’t always make sense for NASCAR. However, Hendrick Motorsports has undoubtedly had dynasties.

Wins, championships, Crown Jewels, if it can be done, Rick Hendrick and his team have been there and done it. Kyle Petty recently talked about the impact Hendrick has had on NASCAR.

Mr. H has been around for a long time. Even after he’s come and gone, his legacy is going to live on for years to come. There are so many records and accolades that have been achieved by HMS. It is really easy to understate the accomplishments the organization has had.

Petty talked with PRN about Rick Hendrick and what he means to the sport.

“I don’t think that his impact on the sport will ever truly be measured until we look back on it after he has decided to not race anymore…because it is a huge, huge mountain that he has built.”

AUDIO: Kyle Petty reflects on Rick Hendrick's impact on NASCAR.

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— PRN (@PRNlive) October 8, 2023

Kyle Petty has been around to see the rise of Hendrick Motorsports as an organization. Who would have guessed that a team that almost folded if not for a win at Martinsville in 1984 would go on to be the winningest organization in NASCAR history?

Rick Hendrick has more chances at history and trophies this season.

Does Rick Hendrick have a champion driver for 2023?

This season, Rick Hendrick has two drivers in the NASCAR Playoffs and then a third in the Owner’s Championship. William Byron and Kyle Larson are both in contention for the Bill France Trophy. Byron has locked himself into the Round of 8 with a win at Texas.

So, does Hendrick have a champion? We can throw Chase Elliott into this group as he drives for the Owner’s Championship and the big payday that it brings to the organization.

Heading into the Charlotte Roval, Byron and Elliott look good. Larson? Well, he’s got a hard road ahead of him. Larson has to start at the rear after wrecking in practice. He will be in a backup car and will try to drive through the field and earn his way into the next round.

If Rick Hendrick gets two of his cars into the Round of 8, I think he has a strong chance at earning another championship. If so, it would be the third in just four years dating back to 2020 with Chase Elliott’s championship run.

This article first appeared on 5 GOATs and was syndicated with permission.

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