Dale Jr Bass Pro Car: A Tribute to a Racing Legend | Browning Kimball Classic Car Museum

The Early Years of Dale Jr

Before we talk about the iconic Dale Jr Bass Pro Car, let's first delve into the early years of this racing legend. Born on October 10, 1974, in Kannapolis, North Carolina, Dale Earnhardt Jr. was the son of NASCAR Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt Sr. and Brenda Lorraine Gee. It was no surprise that Dale Jr would follow in his father's footsteps and become a professional race car driver.

Dale Jr's first taste of racing came when he was just 17 years old. He competed in the Street Stock division at Concord Motorsport Park and won his very first race. This ignited a passion for racing that would lead him to become one of the most successful drivers in NASCAR history.

The Beginnings of the Dale Jr Bass Pro Car

The Dale Jr Bass Pro Car first hit the track in 2008 during the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. The car was a joint effort between Dale Jr's team, JR Motorsports, and Bass Pro Shops. The partnership was a natural fit since both Dale Jr and Bass Pro Shops are avid outdoorsmen and share a love for hunting and fishing.

The car was an instant hit with fans, and it quickly became one of the most recognizable cars on the track. The iconic black and orange paint scheme, complete with the Bass Pro Shops logo, was a standout among the other cars in the field.

The Success of the Dale Jr Bass Pro Car

During its time on the track, the Dale Jr Bass Pro Car was extremely successful. Dale Jr won several races while driving the car, including the 2008 Lifelock 400 at Michigan International Speedway. He also finished in the top ten in many other races, solidifying his status as one of the top drivers in the sport.

Off the track, the car was just as popular. Fans flocked to the Bass Pro Shops stores to purchase merchandise featuring the iconic car. The partnership between Dale Jr and Bass Pro Shops was a huge success, and it helped to elevate both brands to new heights.

The Retirement of the Dale Jr Bass Pro Car

After several successful years on the track, the Dale Jr Bass Pro Car was retired in 2017. Dale Jr announced his retirement from NASCAR that same year, which marked the end of an era for both the driver and the iconic car.

Although the car may no longer be racing, it will always hold a special place in the hearts of NASCAR fans. The Dale Jr Bass Pro Car was more than just a car on the track; it was a symbol of the passion and dedication that Dale Jr brought to the sport.

The Legacy of Dale Jr

Today, Dale Jr is retired from NASCAR, but his legacy lives on. He is widely regarded as one of the best drivers in the history of the sport, and his impact on NASCAR cannot be overstated.

The Dale Jr Bass Pro Car is just one example of the many accomplishments that Dale Jr achieved during his career. He has won 26 NASCAR Cup Series races, including two Daytona 500s, and he has been voted NASCAR's Most Popular Driver 15 times.

But perhaps Dale Jr's greatest legacy is the impact he has had on the sport of NASCAR. He has inspired countless young drivers to pursue their dreams and has helped to grow the sport into what it is today.

In Conclusion

The Dale Jr Bass Pro Car may no longer be racing, but its impact will be felt for years to come. This iconic car was a symbol of the passion and dedication that Dale Jr brought to the sport of NASCAR, and it will forever hold a special place in the hearts of racing fans.