The Legacy of Dale Earnhardt and Michael Waltrip in NASCAR

It was the crash heard around the world: Dale Earnhardt, inarguably NASCAR’s biggest star, was killed on the last lap of the Daytona 500 on February 18, 2001.

What you may not know is how his death affected one of his best friends: Michael Waltrip. Until that Daytona 500, Waltrip was a journeyman driver who had been given a chance to shine in the most competitive car he’d ever had, the NAPA NO. 15 Chevrolet owned by Dale Earnhardt Inc.

A Triumphant Victory in Tragedy

And shine he did. Waltrip won the Daytona 500, the sport’s biggest event, breaking a 462-race losing streak. Adding to the feel-good story was the fact Dale Earnhardt Jr. finished second, right behind Waltrip. Crossing under the checkered flag, for all Waltrip knew, the third-place finisher was Dale Sr., known as “The Intimidator,” in the sleek black No. 3 Chevrolet owned by Earnhardt’s longtime friend and employer, Richard Childress.

However, coming into the race’s final turn, Earnhardt collided with Sterling Marlin as he tried to block Marlin, protecting that third-place finish as well as the one-two up ahead featuring his best friend and his son. Earnhardt hit the outside wall, in a crash that appeared no more serious than the majority of weekly incidents. But it was serious enough to take Earnhardt’s life at the age of 49.

As Waltrip celebrated in Victory Lane, he had no idea that the man who had given him the opportunity to be there was gone.

The Emotional Aftermath

“A lot of us have tremendous highs and devastating lows,” Waltrip reflected. “But to have them within the same hour…”

A decade later, in 2011, Waltrip reflected on this journey in an autobiography which became a bestseller, capturing the attention of a Monster Energy executive. Consequently, his company financed a documentary based on Waltrip’s story.

Less than two weeks before the 2020 Daytona 500, for which Waltrip served as a Fox Sports TV broadcaster, “Blink of an Eye” began streaming exclusively.

This powerful documentary not only details Waltrip’s career, including his second Daytona 500 victory in 2003, but also provides insight into Earnhardt, showcasing a side not often seen by fans. Waltrip mentions, “There were two Dale Earnhardts,” highlighting his complex personality that included both the fierce competitor and the fun-loving friend.

The Challenge of Moving Forward

Earnhardt’s friendship with Waltrip was a unique bond, as noted by Dale Earnhardt Jr. Waltrip, being 16 years younger than NASCAR champion Darrell Waltrip, brought a lively energy to the track, while Earnhardt’s demeanor was more reserved. Despite their differences, they shared a mutual respect, with Earnhardt believing Waltrip had the talent to excel in NASCAR.

However, after the tragic event, both Waltrip and Earnhardt Jr. had to race the following week, knowing that “that’s what Dale would have wanted.” The bereaved team found it more challenging than they had anticipated.

In the years following, Waltrip admitted he struggled with his emotions, not fully processing the loss without seeking help. Nevertheless, the healing nature of time allowed him to arrive at a place of comfort.

In the “Blink of an Eye” documentary, directed by filmmaker Paul Taublieb, significant figures including Richard Petty, NASCAR President Mike Helton, and others share their emotional testimonies, giving viewers an intimate look at the aftermath of Earnhardt’s passing.

Safety Improvements in NASCAR

One major takeaway from the tragic accident was the response from NASCAR regarding driver safety. The series mandated the use of the HANS device, which has since prevented further fatalities from similar injuries. Despite its availability in 2001, Earnhardt chose to forgo modern safety gear, remaining true to his old-school mindset.

Ultimately, “Blink of an Eye” serves as a powerful narrative of friendship, loss, and the endurance of the human spirit amidst tribulations—it resonates with all, regardless of their familiarity with NASCAR.