"I've never had a greater friend": When Darrell Waltrip reflected on his enduring friendship with Rick Hendrick

Darrell Waltrip once reflected on his deep-rooted friendship with Rick Hendrick. The NASCAR Hall Famer competed for Hendrick Motorsports, NASCAR's winningest organization, for four years in his storied career.

Waltrip made his Cup Series debut in the early '70s and has competed in over 600 races in the premier division, garnering 84 triumphs. Notably, he drove for Junior Johnson & Associates, with whom he lifted the three championship titles. After making a mark in the NASCAR world, he joined HMS in 1987 for four years and took the checkered flag nine times, including at the 1989 Daytona 500 event.

In a 2017 conversation with Hendrick Motorsports, the NASCAR legend touched upon his friendship with the owner of the Chevy roster. He said, via Hendrick Motorsports:

"If somebody said, ‘You can make one call, you’ve got one shot here, so better make it a good one,’ I’d always call Rick, I’ve never had a greater friend.

"He was my best ally and always has been, I’ve never had anybody in my life, across the board, that I could call and say, ‘I need help.’ And it’s, ‘Buddy, help’s on the way".

Waltrip often describes Hendrick as a mentor who provided valuable advice and feedback. He is proud that Hendrick is being recognized for his impact on Motorsports.

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Hendrick's Support for Darrell Waltrip in Forming His Own Team

2021 NASCAR Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony - Source: Getty

Darrell Waltrip started his own NASCAR team in 1991, named Darrell Waltrip Motorsports. Before starting his team, he had consulted Rick Hendrick about his idea, and Hendrick gave his honest opinion:

He told Waltrip:

‘Look, I think you’d be a lot better to stay here where you are. I think we can do a lot more for you. But if that’s what you want to do, I’ll help you any way I can,’

Hendrick stuck to his word by supplying Darrell Waltrip Motorsports (DWM) with engines for Waltrip’s race cars. This intensified Waltrip’s deep respect for his friend, as Hendrick proved to be a true supporter of his ambitions. DWM played a crucial role in launching the careers of aspiring drivers, including Ron Hornaday Jr., who went on to become a four-time NASCAR Truck Series champion. The team also found success in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series in 1995.