Rick Hendrick Receives 2005 Papa Joe Hendrick Award

CONCORD, N.C. (Dec. 21, 2005) – The Papa Joe Hendrick Award of Excellence was presented during Hendrick Motorsports’ annual holiday festivities Friday evening at the Westin in downtown Charlotte. Founded in 1995 as the Robert Gee Award, the Papa Joe Hendrick Award of Excellence has been bestowed each year on the member of the Hendrick Motorsports organization who most embodies the values, principles and ideals of the company. Past honorees include the late John Hendrick, former Hendrick Motorsports president; the late Dan Lohwasser, longtime marketing executive; driver Ken Schrader; veteran crew chief Dennis Connor; team manager Brian Whitesell; vice president of competition Ken Howes; and director of engine engineering Jim Wall. In 2005, the employees of Hendrick Motorsports once again nominated potential candidates, and Rick Hendrick, founder and owner of Hendrick Motorsports, was the overwhelming choice. Marshall Carlson, the company’s general manager, read several submissions aloud prior to presenting the award. “Rick is my choice for the Papa Joe Hendrick Award because he set an example in enduring and succeeding during the worst of times,” wrote one employee. “A lesser man would have given up on life and withdrawn into himself; Rick’s positive attitude makes me a better person.” “Rick persevered in the face of adversity and was an example to all of us,” one said. “He stayed committed to Hendrick Motorsports and what our loved ones stood for,” stated another. After enduring the tragic loss of family and friends just 14 months ago, Hendrick led Hendrick Motorsports to another successful season of NASCAR competition. His teams won 10 NEXTEL Cup races in 2005, including Hendrick’s 140th as a team owner, and challenged for the series championship. The organization has now earned a NEXTEL Cup pole position for 22 consecutive seasons and at least one victory in the last 20. It has racked up double-digit win totals for two straight years and maintained an unmatched level of consistency since 1984. “This means the world to me,” said Hendrick, addressing the entire company. “It’s been a tough year, but also a great one thanks to everyone here at Hendrick Motorsports. “I couldn’t have gotten through it without the love, support and hard work of everyone in this room tonight, so this award is really for all of you.”