CONCORD, N.C. (AP) Richard Childress wasn’t going to let just anyone drive the iconic black No. 3 Chevrolet following the death of the legendary Dale Earnhardt 16 years ago.
It had to be someone special.
”To put my grandson in that car was unbelievable,” Childress said.
Four years after that emotional and somewhat controversial decision to bring the No. 3 back, Austin Dillon delivered with his first Series Cup victory early Monday at the Coca-Cola 600, a victory that resonated with Earnhardt fans across the country and left his grandfather on the verge of tears.
Childress said the moment didn’t sink in until he looked up at the board after the race.