NASCAR’s ‘blue collar working man’ is back at it again, trying to run a race in NASCAR’s third-tier faction at the age of 71. While NASCAR drivers are known for their longevity, some also prefer the easy route, setting their financial foundation and leaving the sport. But for the Truck Series veteran, it’s about sending a message – one that would stand the test of time and echo his legacy.
Earlier this year at Bristol Motor Speedway, Norm Benning became the oldest driver in the history of the sport to finish a race on the lead lap at the age of 71. While the community is looking for some action in the otherwise bland off-season, the news of Benning’s return is sure to perk up their ears.
NASCAR veteran Norm Benning ready for Daytona at the age of 71
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Even after 246 races across a long grueling 16-year career, Truck Series veteran Norm Benning isn’t showing any signs of slowing down. Benning, who turned 71 in January, is all set for another Truck Series appearance when he gears up for action at Daytona, a month after he turns 72.
Though a victory is missing from his resume with a 5th place in ARCA circles in 2001 being the best finish of his career, Benning is dead focused on staying on the course and says that the upcoming opportunity will be his “best ride” ever. According to NASCAR historian and enthusiast, Brock Beard, the veteran said, “The best ride I’ve ever had. The best opportunity to run up front at Daytona ever.”
Just got off the phone with Norm Benning. He is finalizing a deal with another team that intends to enter him at @DAYTONA's Truck race this coming February 2024.
In Norm's words, it's "The best ride I've ever had. The best opportunity to run up front at Daytona ever."
He's…
— Brock Beard (@LASTCARonBROCK) December 19, 2023
Taking it to his social media, Beard shared the news with his followers, revealing that Benning is in talks with a team and the deal is more or less set, with sponsorship discussions almost at its conclusion. The ‘X’ post read, “Just got off the phone with Norm Benning. He is finalizing a deal with another team that intends to enter him at @DAYTONA‘s Truck race this coming February 2024.”
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The final piece in the puzzle – Beard lends a helping hand to Benning as he prepares for Daytona
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Everything is set except for the final piece as Benning calls the shot for his Daytona ride. Known as ‘Stormin Norman’ for his classic Mudsummer performance in 2013, Benning has been in a part-time role, trying his luck even at this age with G2G Racing, driving their #46 Toyota Tundra in Truck Series and piloting his #6 Chevy Silverado for his team, Norm Benning Racing.
But for him to make the 2024 Daytona appearance, Benning needs one final bump to push him up the ladder and take on Daytona. While he broke the news on the internet, Beard also mentioned the veteran’s situation and relayed the obvious need.
In his tweet, he noted, “He’s even 2/3rds of the way there on sponsorship. But he needs to secure that last 1/3rd THIS MONTH to lock-in the ride.”
He then noted down the veteran’s email, hoping for a partner to show up in support of the veteran’s venture and solve the final piece of the puzzle – “If you are interested, DM me or e-mail Norm at normbenning84@yahoo.com.”
Are you interested to see Norm Benning at Daytona? Let us know in the comments!
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