Subscibe to our feedAnd the Chase is On
When the race at Richmond ends and the Chase for the Sprint Cup championship begins, that’s when things get really interesting. But before we kick off our Chase effort, I need to say “thank you” to a few folks.
The first 26 races of the year are tough for Jimmie and our team. We have to fight it out every week with 42 other guys for one of the top 12 spots. Our guys have done a great job all season long – they’ve kept Jimmie up front, helped him gain spots when he needed, and worked even harder when our days didn’t go as well.
Congratulations to every person on this team who has put forth 110 percent to give us a chance to go for our fourth championship. It’s an incredible effort by everyone, and a tremendous accomplishment for us all.
I can’t say enough about what Jimmie has done this season. He is so focused and so motivated to perform at the level it takes to win races and protect our team’s position in the standings. He never goes out on the track and gives less than his very best – whether in practice, in qualifying or the early laps of a race. Every single lap gets his best effort, and that commitment motivates the entire team to do their best.
Someone else who motivates this team is Mr. Hendrick. Whether he’s on the pit box or watching from afar, his commitment to giving this team what we need to have a great season and a great Chase never wavers. He always takes the time to recognize the guys for their accomplishments, offer words of encouragement when we have challenges and cheer us on whether we’re in first place or 14th.
Our sponsors at Lowe’s are also there supporting us. The Lowe’s employees around the country are some of our most passionate fans, and we appreciate their support as we kick off this year’s championship quest.
Now that we’re in the Chase, we are ready to work even harder to pursue our goal. We have our game plan and our routine from race to race. We may have to adjust our Chase strategy based on what happens each week, but the effort from everyone on the team will stay at the same high level.
I’d like to offer a “thank you” to the entire No. 48 team, Hendrick Motorsports and Lowe’s for everything you’ve all done this season in helping us make the Chase for the Championship. Now, the Chase is on, so let’s bring home a fourth title for us all to celebrate.