Recently, the motorsports world mourned the loss of Scott Bloomquist, a true legend in the dirt racing series who also made waves in the NASCAR world. Bloomquist was a mentor to many, guiding drivers in both the dirt series and NASCAR. Since the news of his passing, fans and NASCAR personalities alike have come together to honor the icon. Among them is Mark Martin.

Mark Martin, the driver with the second-most wins in what is now known as the Xfinity Series, spent his early days around Scott Bloomquist. It made perfect sense for Kenny Wallace to invite Martin onto his show, “Kenny Conversation,” for episode 71. While the two discussed everything NASCAR under the sun, they also made sure to pay tribute to Bloomquist.

Mark Martin’s tale with his old friend Scott Bloomquist

Kenny Wallace, intrigued by a story he’d heard, asked Martin, “What do you know about Scott Bloomquist and that whole Batesville, Arkansas, story?”

Without missing a beat, Martin replied, “I just know of the legend of Scott Bloomquist, and it starts way back when he was a teenager. He’s such a character. And, you know, he did win all those races, including the $100,000-to-win Mod race, which was years ago—a lot of money back then.”

Martin reminisced about a time when his partner, Lance Landers, was starting a race team and sought his advice. He told him that to succeed, he needed the best cars, motors, and people. They quickly concluded that Bloomquist’s cars were the way to go.

This led to a memorable meeting where the late Scott Bloomquist arrived fashionably late to meet Martin and Landers and promptly made himself a drink of Crown Royal before diving into business. This quirky encounter left a lasting impression on both men. “He was brilliant—a brilliant guy,” Mark Martin shared as he reflected on the many lives Bloomquist touched.

Scott BloomquistThe praise continued as Mark Martin shared, “He was the best thing that ever happened to late-model dirt racing. He was Dale Earnhardt in the face, forever.” For Martin, Earnhardt’s legacy mirrors the greatness that both drivers achieved in their respective arenas. The legend of Scott Bloomquist lives on, and his memory will forever hold a special place in the hearts of fans—and in Mark Martin’s too.

It’s truly heartbreaking to think that Scott Bloomquist has left the world too soon. But Mark Martin wasn’t the only one who had something to say about him.

Tyler Reddick’s heartfelt tribute to his mentor, Scott Bloomquist

In Michigan, Tyler Reddick captured a well-deserved win after a race delayed by rain. Despite the chaotic weather and a grid lined up in uncertainty, the green flag was eventually waved, and the race kicked off. The race was filled with in-air flips, wall clashes, and intense yellows, but in the end, the No. 45 was the first to cross the finish line.

As he headed into Victory Lane, Tyler Reddick couldn’t help but reflect on Scott Bloomquist, who had been more than just a mentor—he was a true friend since Reddick’s younger days. Bloomquist, a dirt racing legend, imparted invaluable lessons to Reddick, shaping him into the champion he is today. Winning his second race of the season, Reddick made sure to honor his mentor.

He concluded his win by saying, “So this win, I think, should go for him and his family and friends, and all that meant a lot to him.” It’s undoubtedly a difficult time for everyone who knew Bloomquist. His driving left a lasting legacy, not just for himself, but as a foundation for countless dirt racing drivers for generations to come.

We keep Bloomquist in our thoughts and pray that he rests in peace. That said, feel free to share your favorite story from Scott Bloomquist in the comments below.