Three memorable moments
CONCORD, N.C. – This week, Hendrick Motorsports is staying out west and heading to Phoenix International Raceway.
But before Sunday's race, which will air on FOX at 3:30 p.m. ET, let's take a look back at three memorable Hendrick Motorsports moments from Phoenix.
Nov. 9, 2008 – Jimmie Johnson knew what it was like to win at Phoenix. He had already scored a victory there earlier in the season. Starting from the pole position, Johnson dominated the race, leading 217 of 312 laps at the 1.5-mile track. Johnson's win at Phoenix was his seventh of the season, five of which were won after starting on the pole. And to top off his triumphant season, Johnson added a third consecutive championship trophy to his collection, becoming only the second driver ever to win three championships in a row.
Apr. 18, 2009 – In his first year driving for Hendrick Motorsports, Mark Martin was looking to win big. And he did just that. In Phoenix, Martin started the race weekend by qualifying on the pole position. During an exciting race, Martin led the field for 157 out of 312 laps and eventually brought the checkered flag to Victory Lane. Martin finished the 2009 season with a total five wins and second in the points standings, just behind teammate Johnson.
Feb. 27, 2011 – It was still early in the season for Jeff Gordon and his new crew chief, Alan Gustafson. But the duo arrived in Phoenix determined to bring home their first win together. When the green flag dropped, Gordon was racing in the 20th position, but he quickly weaved his way to the front of the pack, taking the lead six different times en route to Victory Lane. Gordon and Gustafson went on to win two more races and finish eighth in the points standings in their first season together.
