CONCORD, N.C. -- Jimmie Johnson received not one, but two impressive gifts from New Hampshire Motor Speedway on Sunday.
Before Johnson took the track for the last time as a full-time driver, he was honored with a five-kilometer running trail named after him and a rare musket.
"Jimmie’s impact on our sport, including his three wins here at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, are truly immeasurable," said NHMS vice president and general manager David McGrath. "As he prepares for his final run at 'The Magic Mile,' we hope these gifts serve as a sign – both to Jimmie and the many race fans who will enjoy our new 5K course for years to come – of how impactful his career has been both on and off the track."
The trail, named Jimmie Johnson 5K Way, pays homage to Johnson's three win at New Hampshire and his passion for running. The route is on the speedway's property and is open to runners and joggers during race weekends and throughout the year. The 5K start/finish line is decorated with “48” and “JJ” in blue and yellow.
The musket is a replica of the flintlock firearm carried by militiamen during the siege of Boston on April 19, 1775. It was handcrafted in New England and is made of American cherry and measures 41 inches in length. It also features a 20-gauge round barrel, engraved round-faced English lock, brass mounts and a silver commemorative plaque.
"I knew that coming to these tracks for a final time, there would be some great opportunities to celebrate, which I was excited about, but with what COVID has thrown at us, it’s been a wild and weird year for all of us," Johnson said.
"This is really special. When I saw what was being proposed, I smiled because of all the time I’ve spent out here training and getting ready, really enjoying this climate and this beautiful countryside. And there’s always a place in the man room for a cool musket. I have a few guns that I’ve collected from Texas Motor Speedway, and this is the first official musket I have, so I’m excited about that."
Take a look at Johnson being honored below.
