Reporting from daytona beach, fla. — Dale Earnhardt Jr. may be retired, but Dale Earnhardt Sr. still lives on in Daytona.
He no longer lives through his son’s presence on the race track, but he came back to life Sunday through the iconic No. 3 Chevy that Austin Dillon drove to his first Daytona 500 victory.
And, appropriately, Dillon did it just as the Intimidator himself would have done it — by driving right through race leader Aric Almirola on the last lap, spinning him out of the way, wrecking him and winning on the 20-year anniversary of Dale Sr.’s only Daytona 500 victory.
As Senior himself might have said, “You win some, you lose some, you wreck some.”
This crash-marred 60th running of the Great American Race not only took us on a journey through NASCAR’s proud past, but it also gave us a glimpse into the sport’s bright future. With Dillon taking the checkered flag and charismatic and hard-charging African-American driver Bubba Wallace finishing second, it’s full speed ahead for NASCAR.
“I don’t know what it is about story lines and Daytona, but this place just creates history,” Dillon said.
Just when you thought the Earnhardt era was ending with Junior’s retirement after last season, this hair-raising moment happens. Dillon — driving for his grandfather, Dale Sr.’s car owner Richard Childress — not only drove the No. 3 Earnhardt made famous into Victory Lane, but he also celebrated as Earnhardt did in 1998: by doing a burnout in the shape of a 3 in the infield grass.
And just as a little boy gave Dale Sr. a lucky penny before the Daytona victory two decades ago, Dillon also got a lucky penny from a kid just before the race.
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates with a burnout after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Brian Lawdermilk / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Kurt Busch, driver of the #41 Haas Automation/Monster Energy Ford, leads a pack of cars during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jerry Markland/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Jerry Markland / Getty Images)
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Austin Dillon celebrates after winning the NASCAR Daytona 500 Cup series auto race at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla., Sunday, Feb. 18, 2018. (AP Photo/Terry Renna) (Terry Renna / AP)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates in Victory Lane with his fiancee Whitney Ward after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Paul Menard, driver of the #21 OmnicraftAutoParts/QuickLaneTire&Auto Ford, leads a pack of cars during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jerry Markland/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Jerry Markland / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, races Ryan Newman, driver of the #31 Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s Chevrolet, during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jerry Markland/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Jerry Markland / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Martin Truex Jr., driver of the #78 Bass Pro Shops/5-hour Energy Toyota, leads a pack of cars during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Robert Laberge / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates in Victory Lane with his fiancee Whitney Ward after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates in Victory Lane after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, brother Ty Dillon, driver of the #13 GEICO Chevrolet, and team owner Richard Childress celebrate in Victory Lane after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, brother Ty Dillon, driver of the #13 GEICO Chevrolet, and team owner Richard Childress in Victory Lane after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
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Austin Dillon heads for the finish line to win the NASCAR Daytona 500 Cup series auto race at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla., Sunday, Feb. 18, 2018. (AP Photo/Terry Renna) (Terry Renna / AP)
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Austin Dillon waves the checkered flag from the window of his car after winning the NASCAR Daytona 500 auto race at Daytona International Speedway, Sunday, Feb. 18, 2018, in Daytona Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux) (John Raoux / AP)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Ryan Blaney, driver of the #12 Menards/Peak Ford, leads Kurt Busch, driver of the #41 Haas Automation/Monster Energy Ford, and Denny Hamlin, driver of the #11 FedEx Express Toyota, during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jerry Markland/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Jerry Markland / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates in Victory Lane after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Brian Lawdermilk / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, races during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jerry Markland/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Jerry Markland / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, and crew celebrate winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Brian Lawdermilk / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates in Victory Lane with his fiancee Whitney Ward after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Brian Lawdermilk / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates in Victory Lane with his grandfather and team owner, Richard Childress and fiancee Whitney Ward after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates in Victory Lane with his fiancee Whitney Ward after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates with a burnout after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Brian Lawdermilk / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Brian Lawdermilk / Getty Images)
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Austin Dillon celebrates in Victory Lane after winning the NASCAR Daytona 500 Cup series auto race at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla., Sunday, Feb. 18, 2018. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton) (Chuck Burton / AP)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates with champagne in Victory Lane after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Robert Laberge / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates in Victory Lane with his brother Ty Dillon, driver of the #13 GEICO Chevrolet, after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates in Victory Lane after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates in Victory Lane with his brother Ty Dillon, driver of the #13 GEICO Chevrolet, after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates with a burnout after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, and crew celebrate winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates in Victory Lane after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates with a burnout after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sean Gardner / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, drives into Victory Lane after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Robert Laberge / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Chase Elliott, driver of the #9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet, races Alex Bowman, driver of the #88 Nationwide Chevrolet, during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jerry Markland/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Jerry Markland / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates in Victory Lane after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates in Victory Lane after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Denny Hamlin, driver of the #11 FedEx Express Toyota, and Aric Almirola, driver of the #10 Smithfield Ford, lead the field in the final restart during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sean Gardner / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, drives into Victory Lane after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Robert Laberge / Getty Images)
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Austin Dillon gets a kiss from his wife, Whitney in Victory lane after winning the NASCAR Daytona 500 Cup series auto race at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla., Sunday, Feb. 18, 2018. (AP Photo/Terry Renna) (Terry Renna / AP)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates in Victory Lane after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates in Victory Lane after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates with champagne in Victory Lane after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Robert Laberge / Getty Images)
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Austin Dillon gets a kiss from his wife, Whitney in Victory lane after winning the NASCAR Daytona 500 Cup series auto race at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla., Sunday, Feb. 18, 2018. (AP Photo/Terry Renna) (Terry Renna / AP)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: A detailed view of the top of the car of Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, after his victory in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Robert Laberge / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Denny Hamlin, driver of the #11 FedEx Express Toyota, leads a pack of cars during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sean Gardner / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, poses with the winner’s decal in Victory Lane after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Ryan Blaney, driver of the #12 Menards/Peak Ford, leads a pack of cars during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sean Gardner / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Denny Hamlin, driver of the #11 FedEx Express Toyota, leads a pack of cars during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sean Gardner / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates with champagne in Victory Lane after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Robert Laberge / Getty Images)
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Car owner Richard Childress celebrates moments after his grandson Austin Dillon crossed the finish line to win the NASCAR Daytona 500 auto race at Daytona International Speedway, Sunday, Feb. 18, 2018, in Daytona Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux) (John Raoux / AP)
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Austin Dillon, center, celebrates with his team and his grandfather, Richard Childress, left, in Victory Lane after winning the NASCAR Daytona 500 Cup series auto race at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla., Sunday, Feb. 18, 2018. (AP Photo/Terry Renna) (Terry Renna / AP)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Cars race during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sean Gardner / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates in Victory Lane after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, celebrates with champagne in Victory Lane after winning the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Robert Laberge / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Ryan Blaney, driver of the #12 Menards/Peak Ford, leads a pack of cars during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jerry Markland/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Jerry Markland / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Kasey Kahne, driver of the #95 Procore Chevrolet, races during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Ryan Blaney, driver of the #12 Menards/Peak Ford, leads Joey Logano, driver of the #22 Shell Pennzoil Ford, during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Robert Laberge / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 DOW Chevrolet, races during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Chase Elliott, driver of the #9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet, races Danica Patrick, driver of the #7 GoDaddy Chevrolet, during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Chris Buescher, driver of the #37 Kleenex Chevrolet, leads a pack of cars during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Brian Lawdermilk / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Alex Bowman, driver of the #88 Nationwide Chevrolet, leads a pack of cars during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Daniel Suarez, driver of the #19 ARRIS Toyota, races Jimmie Johnson, driver of the #48 Lowe’s for Pros Chevrolet, during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
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Danica Patrick, wearing a green suit, is helped to an awaiting ambulance after being involved in a multi-car accident during the NASCAR Daytona 500 auto race at Daytona International Speedway Sunday, Feb. 18, 2018, in Daytona Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack) (Phelan M. Ebenhack / AP)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Darrell Wallace Jr., driver of the #43 Click n’ Close Chevrolet, pits during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Brian Lawdermilk / Getty Images)
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Danica Patrick speaks with the media after leaving the infield care center after being involved in a crash during the NASCAR Daytona 500 Cup series auto race at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla., Sunday, Feb. 18, 2018. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton) (Chuck Burton / AP)
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Jamie McMurray, driver of the #1 McDonald’s/Cessna Chevrolet, races during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
67/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Danica Patrick, driver of the #7 GoDaddy Chevrolet, walks from the infield care center after being involved in an on-track incident the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images)
68/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Jeffrey Earnhardt, driver of the #00 VRX Simulators Chevrolet, leads a pack of cars during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
69/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Alex Bowman, driver of the #88 Nationwide Chevrolet, races Kurt Busch, driver of the #41 Haas Automation/Monster Energy Ford, during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
70/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Clint Bowyer, driver of the #14 Rush Truck Centers Ford, leads a pack of cars during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
71/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: AJ Allmendinger, driver of the #47 Kroger ClickList Chevrolet, leads a pack of cars during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
72/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: William Byron, driver of the #24 AXALTA Chevrolet, races during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
73/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Kyle Busch, driver of the #18 M&M’s Toyota, races during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
74/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Ryan Blaney, driver of the #12 Menards/Peak Ford, leads a pack of cars during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Brian Lawdermilk / Getty Images)
75/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Gray Gaulding, driver of the #23 Toyota, leads Justin Marks, driver of the #51 HARRY’S Chevrolet, during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
76/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Denny Hamlin, driver of the #11 FedEx Express Toyota, races during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sarah Crabill / Getty Images)
77/99
Chase Elliott (9), Kasey Kahne (95) and Danica Patrick (7) crash during the NASCAR Daytona 500 Cup series auto race at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla., Sunday, Feb. 18, 2018. (AP Photo/Mike Troxell) (Mike Troxell / AP)
78/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Chase Elliott, driver of the #9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet, has an on track incident with Kasey Kahne, driver of the #95 Procore Chevrolet, and Danica Patrick, driver of the #7 GoDaddy Chevrolet, during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sean Gardner / Getty Images)
79/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: The car of Daniel Suarez, driver of the #19 ARRIS Toyota, is towed into the garage after an on track incident during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images)
80/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Daniel Suarez, driver of the #19 ARRIS Toyota, William Byron, driver of the #24 AXALTA Chevrolet, Jimmie Johnson, driver of the #48 Lowe’s for Pros Chevrolet, and Erik Jones, driver of the #20 DeWalt Toyota, have an on track incident during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sean Gardner / Getty Images)
81/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Daniel Suarez, driver of the #19 ARRIS Toyota, William Byron, driver of the #24 AXALTA Chevrolet, Jimmie Johnson, driver of the #48 Lowe’s for Pros Chevrolet, and Erik Jones, driver of the #20 DeWalt Toyota, have an on track incident during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sean Gardner / Getty Images)
82/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Crew members work on the car of Daniel Suarez, driver of the #19 ARRIS Toyota, in the garage after an on track incident during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images)
83/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Daniel Suarez, driver of the #19 ARRIS Toyota, William Byron, driver of the #24 AXALTA Chevrolet, Jimmie Johnson, driver of the #48 Lowe’s for Pros Chevrolet, and Erik Jones, driver of the #20 DeWalt Toyota, have an on track incident during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sean Gardner / Getty Images)
84/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Kurt Busch, driver of the #41 Haas Automation/Monster Energy Ford, leads a pack of cars during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Robert Laberge / Getty Images)
85/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Joey Logano, driver of the #22 Shell Pennzoil Ford, and Chase Elliott, driver of the #9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet, lead the field the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Brian Lawdermilk / Getty Images)
86/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Martin Truex Jr., driver of the #78 Bass Pro Shops/5-hour Energy Toyota, Erik Jones, driver of the #20 DeWalt Toyota, and Ricky Stenhouse Jr., driver of the #17 Fastenal Ford, lead a pack of cars during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Robert Laberge / Getty Images)
87/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Kurt Busch, driver of the #41 Haas Automation/Monster Energy Ford, races Alex Bowman, driver of the #88 Nationwide Chevrolet, during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jerry Markland/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Jerry Markland / Getty Images)
88/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Jimmie Johnson, driver of the #48 Lowe’s for Pros Chevrolet, is involved in an on-track incident with several other cars during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Brian Lawdermilk / Getty Images)
89/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Jimmie Johnson, driver of the #48 Lowe’s for Pros Chevrolet, is involved in an on-track incident with several other cars during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Brian Lawdermilk / Getty Images)
90/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Jimmie Johnson, driver of the #48 Lowe’s for Pros Chevrolet, is involved in an on-track incident with several other cars during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Brian Lawdermilk / Getty Images)
91/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Crew members work on the car of Erik Jones, driver of the #20 DeWalt Toyota, in the garage after an on track incident during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images)
92/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Cars race during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Robert Laberge / Getty Images)
93/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Daniel Suarez, driver of the #19 ARRIS Toyota, William Byron, driver of the #24 AXALTA Chevrolet, Jimmie Johnson, driver of the #48 Lowe’s for Pros Chevrolet, and Erik Jones, driver of the #20 DeWalt Toyota, have an on track incident during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Sean Gardner / Getty Images)
94/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Cars race during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Brian Lawdermilk / Getty Images)
95/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Joey Logano, driver of the #22 Shell Pennzoil Ford, and Chase Elliott, driver of the #9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet, lead the field the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Brian Lawdermilk / Getty Images)
96/99
Kyle Larson (42), Martin Truex Jr. (78), Michael McDowell (34), Daniel Suarez (19), Jimmie Johnson (48), Kevin Harvick (4), Erik Jones (20), William Byron (24) and Chase Elliott (9) make their way through Turn 3 during a multi-car collision in the NASCAR Daytona 500 auto race at Daytona International Speedway Sunday, Feb. 18, 2018, in Daytona Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack) (Phelan M. Ebenhack / AP)
97/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Kurt Busch, driver of the #41 Haas Automation/Monster Energy Ford, leads a pack of cars during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Brian Lawdermilk / Getty Images)
98/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Two-time Super Bowl winning quarterback Peyton Manning and his son, Marshall, during the drivers meeting for the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Robert Laberge / Getty Images)
99/99
DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Jimmie Johnson, driver of the #48 Lowe’s for Pros Chevrolet, is involved in an on-track incident with several other cars during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** (Brian Lawdermilk / Getty Images)
“It’s incredible to come back 20 years after celebrating with Dale and now celebrating with my grandson driving the No. 3,” Childress said. “What a storybook race. I’m speechless.”
If ever there was a question about whether NASCAR would be in good hands after the retirement of Dale Jr., this race answered it. Not only did Dillon win it and evoke the memory of the Intimidator, but also Wallace conjured up memories of the King.
Driving car owner Richard Petty’s legendary No. 43, Wallace turned this race into the Diversity 500. The first African-American driver to start a Daytona 500 since 1969, Wallace broke down in tears as he hugged his mother and sister before the post-race media conference.
“Pull it together, bud,” Wallace implored himself through a cracking voice as he wiped tears from his eyes and tried to regain his composure. “I just try so hard to be successful at everything I do, and my family pushes me because I just want to make them proud.”
Wallace no doubt made many African Americans proud Sunday. Because of NASCAR’s Southern heritage and the Confederate flags that still fly at some tracks, Wallace is an important figure in a sport trying to bury some of its skeletons. This is why Hank Aaron called Wallace before the race and Dale Jr. sat down with him earlier this week to offer advice on dealing with pressure. And if anybody knows the burden of expectations, it’s Junior.
These are the moments and story lines that NASCAR needs now that Junior has called it quits. There’s no question Junior’s emergence helped save NASCAR in the wake of his father’s death at this very track 17 years ago. However, his exit may be just as important to the growth and development of a sport that has struggled to get up to speed.
This race was significant for many reasons but mainly because it was the first Daytona 500 of the post-Earnhardt era; the first in four decades without the name Dale Earnhardt — either Junior or Senior — in the starting grid.
Even though Junior didn’t compete Sunday, he did serve as the grand marshal. Considering this was the symbolic passing of the torch, Junior should have started the race with this proclamation to the competitors: “Gentlemen, it’s up to you now!”
Junior’s departure no doubt leaves a void in NASCAR, but it also opens up an incredible opportunity for the sport. As much as he meant to NASCAR, his mere presence and popularity often overshadowed more deserving drivers and story lines.
“Hopefully people are tuning in and noticing the new faces that are coming to NASCAR,” Wallace said.
Added Dillon: “The drivers that have led our sport for so long have kind of moved out. I think NASCAR fans are going to love what they see.”
So far, so good.
A blast through the past and blast off into the future.
A lucky penny for your thoughts.
sports@latimes.com
