In the high-stakes world of NASCAR, drivers live for those checkered flags, pouring everything into outpacing rivals on the track. Yet, amid the roar of engines and pursuit of victory, personal milestones often eclipse even the biggest wins, like becoming a father or grandfather. Take Denny Hamlin, who skipped the 2025 Cup Series race at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City to be present for his son’s birth, prioritizing family over competition. As Jeff Burton once put it, “You now have something that’s bigger than you,” capturing how fatherhood reshapes priorities.

Kenny Wallace, the ever-smiling veteran from St. Louis who earned nine Xfinity Series victories during his career from 1988 to 2015, embodies that blend of racing grit and family devotion. Known as “Herman” for his

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