Jimmie Johnson makes admission after death of – Sports News
NASCAR icon Jimmie Johnson was initially quiet on social media following the information of longtime car hauler Rick “Otis” Hodges’ death, which unfold throughout social media.
After amassing his ideas, Johnson paid tribute to the person he labored intently with during the 2024 Cup Series season. The seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion’s tribute got here Tuesday when he quote-tweeted a post from Legacy Motor Club, the group he co-owns and returned to drive for in 2024.
“I can’t imagine a garage without Otis,” Johnson wrote. “He was known and loved by so many. Our hearts are heavy, and they are with his family.” Hodges labored instantly with Johnson’s crew in 2024 as a hauler driver and was a acquainted face inside Legacy’s operation.
His passing created a deep void that was felt instantly all through the industry. Legacy’s post learn, “We’re extremely saddened by the loss of our Legacy Motor Club teammate Rick ‘Otis’ Hodges.”
“Otis worked in our sport for many years and joined Legacy last year as one of our truck drivers. He was such a great person to be around, and we were all lucky to call him a friend. Otis will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.”
“Please keep his wife, Londa, the entire Hodges family, and all his co-workers and friends in your prayers during this difficult time.” Hodges’ death was introduced on Monday, and he was 61 years outdated.
Hodges spent over twenty years working in NASCAR, transporting automobiles, instruments, tools, and freight nationwide. Prior to his racing profession, he was concerned within the concrete industry in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Johnson’s personal connection to Hodges deepened during his part-time return to the Cup Series in 2024. He competed in 10 races for Legacy Motor Club within the No. 84 Toyota because the crew transitioned into a new part-time part.
Hodges’ duties prolonged throughout a number of groups within Legacy’s construction, together with transporting Johnson’s car and tools for a number of occasions. Johnson recorded finishes of twelfth within the Daytona 500, twenty eighth in Dover, twenty ninth in Charlotte, and twenty sixth in Phoenix whereas managing his possession tasks.
A good friend’s 2003 advice bought him a hauler function and introduced him into Dale Earnhardt Inc., one of NASCAR’s iconic groups. His profession later introduced him to Stewart-Haas Racing, the place he grew to become a fixture during Kevin Harvick’s championship years.
Harvick reacted to the information Monday evening. “I am grateful for the years spent together, from my first to my final season with SHR. Otis, this toast is for you.” Hodges was half of Johnson’s 2020 season, which noticed him make the playoffs for the eleventh consecutive season.
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