A Request with Deep Meaning
When Martin Truex Jr. began discussing a deal to compete in the Daytona 500, he had a unique and deeply personal request: Could he drive the No. 56 car? It was a resounding yes from Tricon Garage, a decision that has taken on even greater significance in the weeks since. The No. 56 has a rich history for the Truex family, as Martin Truex Sr. raced with that number for much of his career, including 15 starts in the Xfinity Series and 135 starts in the ARCA Series during the 1990s. For Martin Jr., who drove the No. 56 for four seasons at Michael Waltrip Racing (2010-13), the choice is a homage to his father and a way to honor his memory.
A Sudden and Heartbreaking Loss
Just one day after Truex formally announced his entry into "The Great American Race," his father, Martin Truex Sr., passed away unexpectedly at the age of 66. This loss has added a layer of emotion to Truex’s return to Daytona. "It probably means more. It probably hits home more with me of just what it means to us and our family," Truex Jr. said, reflecting on the significance of the car number. The impact of this event is most profoundly felt by Martin and his younger brother, Ryan. Their father was not just a mentor but a hero and a driving force behind Martin’s career. "Everything I’ve ever learned was from him," Martin shared. "He was my hero growing up and still is. He made a lot of things happen for me. Taught me a lot of things with racing and really the opportunity to get here and what I’ve accomplished is all because of him and his sacrifices."
The Ultimate Tribute
Winning the Daytona 500 would be the ultimate tribute to Martin Truex Sr. For Martin Jr., the race is not just a competition but a chance to honor his father’s legacy. "Hopefully, we’ll go win this thing for him on Sunday," he said, a sentiment that resonates deeply with the entire Truex family. The emotional weight of the race is palpable, and it adds a layer of determination to Martin’s performance. The No. 56 car, with its long history in the family, serves as a constant reminder of the man who dedicated his life to helping his sons achieve their dreams.
A Stubborn Winning Streak
Despite his extensive experience and numerous accolades, including the 2017 Cup Series championship, Truex Jr. has never won the Daytona 500. He holds the longest active losing streak in the race, having failed to win in 20 starts. However, this streak almost came to an end in 2016 when he came inches short of Denny Hamlin in the closest finish in the race’s history. Since then, Truex has finished in the top 15 in each of the last three years while driving for Joe Gibbs Racing. These close calls and consistent performances suggest that he is always in contention, and his experience could be a significant advantage in this year’s race.
A strategic One-Off Event
Truex retired from full-time racing at the end of last season but chose to return for a one-off event with Tricon Garage to chase his Daytona 500 dream. The decision was strategic, as he believes that speedway racing offers the best opportunity for a part-time driver to win. "In the grand scheme of things, this is probably the easiest one to do as far as being a driver in a series," Truex explained. "You couldn’t do a one-off and go to Richmond or Dover or somewhere and expect to have a chance to win, honestly. It’s just not really feasible. Speedway racing is the best opportunity to come out and have a true shot at winning. That’s why guys do it. That’s why I wanted to do it and especially because it’s the Daytona 500. It’s such a big race. It’s such a big deal."
A Final Chance and a Determined Spirit
For Martin Truex Jr., this could be his final chance to win the Daytona 500. Competing in his 21st attempt, just a month after his father’s passing, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The emotional and personal significance of the No. 56 car, coupled with the memory of his father, fuels his motivation. "We have as good a shot to win as anyone to win," Truex confidently stated. "If you’re in it, you can win it. I’ve always said that. One of these days I’m going to be right about it." The racing community, along with Truex’s fans, will be watching closely, hoping that this year, Martin Truex Jr. can finally claim victory in the Daytona 500 and write a fitting chapter in his family’s racing history.
