In NASCAR, family dynasties are as common as checkered flags. The Earnhardts, the Pettys, the Jarretts, and more. Racing isn’t just a job for these families; it’s practically a family business. Kids grow up in the garage, learning the ropes before they can even get a street car driver’s license. Some follow in their parents’ footsteps without hesitation, while others carve out their own path, either inside or outside of motorsports.

For Ryan Blaney, son of former NASCAR driver Dave Blaney, racing was always on the table. But was it the only option? While some young drivers branch out into different sports or pursuits, Blaney stuck with the family trade. The reason why, though? Well, let’s just say it wasn’t all about pure passion or adrenaline.

Ryan Blaney’s career choice wasn’t just passion, it was practical

Ryan Blaney always seemed destined for NASCAR. Growing up around the sport, he naturally gravitated toward it. In a recent episode of the DraftKings live podcast, Ryan Blaney shared insights on why he chose racing as his career. Turns out, it was more to do with practicality.

According to Blaney, racing wasn’t just about passion, it was the most realistic option. “It’s always what I’ve wanted to do… maybe it was what I was most comfortable with, watching my dad do it,” Blaney admitted in a recent interview. Blaney dabbled in other sports, enjoying basketball and baseball. However, he quickly realized his limitations.

“I had to come to a realization, like, I’d probably not gonna make it. I have my father’s genes, probably gonna be 5’9” and be like a 140 pounds,” he joked. His father, Dave Blaney, was a successful sprint car driver but never had the towering stature needed for other sports. As per records, Dave Blaney stands at 5’8″. Ryan Blaney, recognizing his similar physical traits, understood early on that excelling in traditional sports would be tough. This realization made NASCAR the most logical and achievable career path for him.

Moreover, contrary to popular belief, Dave Blaney gave his son freedom, unlike some racing parents who push their kids into the sport. “My dad never like forced me to do it. Like he was always, ‘Are you sure you want to do this?’” Ryan said. Still, with racing in his blood and a front-row seat to the NASCAR world, he naturally gravitated toward it.

Despite his adrenaline-filled profession, Blaney isn’t exactly an adrenaline junkie off the track. “I don’t really have to search for adrenaline too often,” he revealed. ​Ryan Blaney prefers low-key activities such as bowling and golf during their downtime, but others seek adrenaline-fueled pursuits outside the racetrack.

For instance, Travis Pastrana, known for his stunt performances, has participated in offshore powerboat racing, securing the UIM Class 1 World Championship title in 2022. Additionally, former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle actively engages in helicopter piloting, notably conducting daring rescue missions during natural disasters.

Blaney may have followed his father’s path, but his decision was far from blind loyalty. It was a mix of passion, practicality, and opportunity. While some drivers explore different sports before committing to racing, Blaney knew early on that NASCAR was his best bet. And considering his success, it’s safe to say he made the right call.

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A look at the Blaney family racing legacy

The Blaney family’s racing legacy began with Lou Blaney, a revered figure in motorsports. From 1961 to 1980, Lou secured over 200 sprint car victories before transitioning to big-block modifies, where he amassed an additional 400 wins. His dominance earned him seven championships and induction into multiple halls of fame, including the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame.

Lou’s sons, Dave and Dale Blaney, continued the family’s racing tradition. Dave, known as the “Buckeye Bullet,” achieved significant success in sprint car racing, winning the 1995 World of Outlaws championship and prestigious events like the 1997 Knoxville Nationals. He later transitioned to NASCAR, competing in both the Cup and Xfinity Series.

Dale Blaney initially pursued a basketball career, playing for West Virginia University. However, he eventually followed his family’s passion for racing, becoming a six-time champion in the All Star Circuit of Champions. As of July 2019, he recorded 137 career victories with the series, solidifying his status as an elite sprint car driver.

The family’s legacy continues with Ryan Blaney, Dave’s son, who currently drives for Team Penske in the NASCAR Cup Series. Ryan’s notable achievements include the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series Championship, 2009 PASS South Super Late Model Series Rookie of the Year, and being only the 10th driver in history to win a NASCAR race in all 3 national series at the same track (Iowa), among many others.

The Blaney family’s story is a testament to dedication and excellence in racing. From Lou’s early victories to Ryan’s current endeavors, their legacy continues to influence and inspire the motorsports community.