CONCORD, N.C. -- When Hendrick Motorsports took the first ever one-two-three-four finish in Daytona 500 qualifying history, eyes turned to the engine shop for the celebration.
“To get the top four spots in qualifying, it’s beyond a dream,” said Danny Emerick, engine assembly manager.
“It sends a statement of what we hope is ahead this year.”
When Hendrick Motorsports accomplished the feat, it wasn’t the only triumph of the day.
Not only did all four drivers sweep the front positions, earning Chevrolet’s 700th NASCAR Cup Series pole in the process, but Jimmie Johnson captured a victory in The Clash later that evening.
Director of track support Scott Maxim was proud of all the effort that led to such a successful start to Speedweeks.
“It was certainly a dream day in that respect,” said Maxim. “We’ve had a lot of good days down there, but never with that kind of consistency from top to bottom with all four of our cars.”
To hear more from the engine shop on the strong start to the season, check out the video above.