CONCORD, N.C. -- Jimmie Johnson was honored before Sunday's race at Martinsville Speedway with a scholarship named in his honor.
The Jimmie Johnson Champions Award is a scholarship started by the track that pays tribute to the seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion. The scholarship will be awarded to a student at one of the Martinsville-Henry County public high schools.
“Jimmie Johnson is among the greatest champions in the history of motorsports,” said Martinsville president Clay Campbell. “He is a beacon for all that is good about the sport on and off the track as he has represented NASCAR with class throughout his championship career. As we share his legacy with future students in Martinsville-Henry County, we will recognize his accomplishments at Martinsville Speedway and across the sport with students who will make a different in our community and the region in the future.”
The scholarship will be given to a student annually who is part of the STEM-based education program at one of the Martinsville-Henry County high schools. The student will be gifted a plaque and a $1,000 scholarship to continue their education.
“Martinsville is a special track to me – it’s one of my favorite places to race and I have so many great memories there,” Johnson said. “This gift is so meaningful. The Jimmie Johnson Foundation’s focus is on public education and assisting a child with a scholarship can make such a difference. I’m thankful to Martinsville Speedway, President Clay Campbell and everyone who made this possible.”
Johnson is tied for third all time for the most wins at Martinsville with nine. He leads all active drivers with the most victories, plus 19 top-five finishes and 25 top-10s. Johnson also is one of nine drivers in track history to sweep a Cup Series season at Martinsville.