Chase Elliott Reveals the “First Thing” He Desired Before Making His NASCAR Cup Series Debut: A Glimpse Into His Journey to the Top
In the fast-paced world of NASCAR, where talent, strategy, and determination are crucial to success, few stories have been as captivating as that of Chase Elliott. The son of NASCAR Hall of Famer Bill Elliott, Chase had racing in his blood from an early age, and it was clear that the young driver had the potential to carve out his own legacy in the sport. But as he prepared to make his debut in the NASCAR Cup Series, one of the biggest questions that arose wasn’t about his driving ability or his strategy for success—it was about what he desired the most before stepping into the car for the first time.
Before his debut race in the NASCAR Cup Series, Chase Elliott, with his typical humility and insight, shared a deeply personal revelation about his mindset and approach to the race. The “first thing” he desired before the big moment wasn’t a podium finish or a spotlight on him as a rookie driver—it was something much more fundamental: the support and guidance of his father, Bill Elliott. For Chase, the desire to have his father by his side in those crucial early moments of his NASCAR career was not just a request, but a testament to the close relationship they shared and the legacy they were about to build together.
This heartfelt moment of reflection speaks volumes about the kind of person Chase Elliott is—someone who values family, tradition, and the wisdom that comes with experience. For a young driver like Chase, stepping into the NASCAR Cup Series wasn’t just about the thrill of racing; it was about honoring his family’s legacy while carving out his own path in the sport. And in many ways, his request to have his father with him as he began this journey underscored the role that mentorship, family support, and history would play in his success.
The Road to NASCAR Cup Series: A Legacy in the Making
Before he was ever behind the wheel of a NASCAR Cup Series car, Chase Elliott had already made a name for himself in the racing world. Born on November 28, 1995, Chase grew up in Dawsonville, Georgia, where his father, Bill Elliott, was a household name. Bill, a NASCAR legend, had a career spanning several decades, with 44 Cup Series victories and a NASCAR Cup Series championship in 1988. His fame and skill on the track paved the way for Chase, who seemed destined to follow in his father’s tire tracks.
Chase’s early racing career took him through a variety of junior racing leagues, from karting to late models, where he began to showcase the raw talent that would eventually bring him to the NASCAR Cup Series. His big break came in 2011, when he won the prestigious Snowball Derby, a race that would serve as a major milestone in his career. His performance caught the attention of team owners, and in 2015, he earned his spot in the NASCAR Xfinity Series with JR Motorsports.
By 2016, Chase Elliott was ready to make the leap to the NASCAR Cup Series, driving for Hendrick Motorsports in the No. 24 car previously driven by Jeff Gordon. His rookie season was a strong one, as he quickly proved that he had what it took to compete at the highest level. That same year, Chase earned his first Cup Series win at the prestigious Watkins Glen International road course in 2018, a victory that solidified his place among the sport’s elite drivers.
However, despite all of his accomplishments, Chase never forgot the foundational influence his father had on his racing career. From a young age, Bill Elliott had not only been Chase’s biggest mentor but also his greatest inspiration. This father-son bond would prove to be crucial as Chase prepared for his debut in the Cup Series, with Bill serving as a sounding board, a source of guidance, and a figure of stability amid the pressures of racing at the sport’s highest level.
The “First Thing” Chase Elliott Desired: A Father’s Presence
As the moment approached for Chase Elliott to make his NASCAR Cup Series debut, the excitement was palpable. The world was eager to see if the young driver could live up to the high expectations set for him, given his pedigree and his rapid ascent through the NASCAR ranks. However, as he prepared for the race, one thing stood out as more important than any other: having his father with him in the pits and supporting him as he took to the track.
Chase’s admission that the “first thing” he desired before his debut was to have Bill by his side is a testament to the deep bond between the two. In an era where racing is often seen as an individual sport, where drivers are constantly pushing themselves to the limit to secure victories and championships, Chase’s acknowledgment of his father’s role in his career serves as a reminder that racing is also about relationships and support systems.
The presence of his father during those early moments in the Cup Series was invaluable for Chase, not just for the advice Bill could offer, but for the emotional comfort and reassurance that only a parent can provide. The pressure on rookie drivers is immense, and knowing that his father—someone who had experienced the highs and lows of NASCAR firsthand—was there to provide wisdom and encouragement likely made all the difference for Chase as he embarked on this new chapter in his career.
For Bill Elliott, the moment was equally significant. It marked the beginning of a new era in NASCAR—one in which he was not only a legendary figure in his own right but also a father guiding his son through the challenges of the sport. The father-son duo had already made history, but in many ways, Chase’s debut in the NASCAR Cup Series was a culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication to the sport that had shaped both of their careers.
The Legacy of Bill Elliott and the Influence on Chase
Bill Elliott’s impact on NASCAR cannot be overstated. As one of the most beloved and successful drivers in the sport’s history, Bill was known for his speed, consistency, and sportsmanship. His career achievements, including winning the 1988 NASCAR Cup Series championship and being named the sport’s Most Popular Driver 16 times, left an indelible mark on the sport. However, Bill’s influence on Chase went far beyond the track.
From an early age, Bill served as both a mentor and a teacher, imparting the skills and values necessary to succeed in NASCAR. It was clear that Chase had inherited not only his father’s talent but also his work ethic and determination. Throughout Chase’s career, Bill’s advice and insights proved invaluable, whether it was about car setup, race strategy, or handling the mental and emotional aspects of racing.
However, as much as Bill was a mentor, he was also a father who deeply cared about his son’s well-being. Chase’s desire to have his father by his side before his NASCAR Cup Series debut wasn’t just about seeking racing advice—it was about seeking reassurance from someone who had always been there for him. For Chase, Bill was more than just a racing legend; he was a trusted confidant and a source of stability.
Chase Elliott’s NASCAR Cup Series Debut: A New Chapter Begins
When Chase Elliott finally made his NASCAR Cup Series debut, it wasn’t just the culmination of years of training and preparation; it was a new beginning for both him and his father. The moment was full of emotion, as Chase’s entry into the sport marked the continuation of the Elliott family’s rich legacy in NASCAR. As expected, the race was a challenging one, but Chase handled it with poise and professionalism, proving that he was ready to take on the big stage.
Throughout his career, Chase has continued to honor his family’s legacy while building his own path to success. He has become one of NASCAR’s most popular and accomplished drivers, with numerous wins and playoff appearances under his belt. However, the support of his father remains a cornerstone of his success.
As Chase’s career has progressed, he has often spoken about the importance of family in his journey. The influence of Bill Elliott, both as a mentor and as a father, has shaped Chase’s approach to racing and life. Whether it’s the lessons learned on the track or the values instilled in him off the track, Chase continues to carry his father’s legacy forward with every race.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Family, Tradition, and Racing Excellence
Chase Elliott’s story is one of talent, perseverance, and family. His desire to have his father by his side before making his NASCAR Cup Series debut is a reflection of the deep bond that exists between them. It serves as a reminder that even in the high-stakes world of professional racing, family and tradition play a vital role in shaping a driver’s success.
As Chase continues to make his mark on NASCAR, he does so with the knowledge and wisdom passed down from Bill Elliott, a racing legend whose influence will forever be a part of his career. The “first thing” that Chase Elliott desired before his debut race may have been a simple request, but it was one that spoke volumes about the importance of family and mentorship in the world of motorsport. In the end, it’s not just about crossing the finish line—it’s about the journey, the lessons learned, and the people who support you along the way.
