At the Atlanta Motor Speedway, Ryan Blaney became a winner in every sense of the word. First and foremost, he won the Folds of Honor Quiktrip 500 ahead of Kyle Larson and Alex Bowman. However, Blaney truly sealed his fate when he passed the checkered flag to a young boy and made his day.

Of course, it is fairly common for NASCAR drivers to pass the flag to some lucky fans. However, in today’s day and age, not many spectators are allowed to attend live races; only certain race venues have allowed spectators to attend, but are taking many precautions to prevent a COVID-19 outbreak.

This kind of NASCAR tradition is usually reserved for the race-winning driver. In addition to that, the chosen fan is usually a random pick. Nevertheless, the up close and personal moment is always a memorable one. At the end of the day, this is merely a spectacle for the fans. Besides, what better way to engage them than to let them meet their heroes in the flesh?

How did the race pan out for Ryan Blaney?

Admittedly, many people pegged Kyle Larson to win the race as he dominated the proceedings for the most part. However, Blaney’s Penske simply bided its time and shadowed the #5 Hendrick Motorsports car. Then, when the opportune moment arrived, the man struck for the lead and held onto it like a lifeline.

With nine laps to go, Ryan Blaney made his move and made it stick. From there, he rabbited off into the distance and that was the last that anyone ever saw of him. The Penske driver went on to win by more than two seconds, becoming the sixth different winner in the NASCAR Cup Series in 2021.

Truthfully speaking, this was Larson‘s race to lose, as he won the first and second stages. However, Blaney pounced when it truly mattered and took the race lead and win.

READ MORE: “That Was Awesome” – Ryan Blaney Reacts After Stunning Win Over Kyle Larson in NASCAR Cup Race at Atlanta