On August 16, 2024, Tennessee was the scene of a devastating plane crash that claimed the life of renowned dirt track driver Scott Bloomquist, at the age of 60. He tragically passed away while piloting a 1938 Piper J3C-65 Cub aircraft in his hometown of Mooresburg.
According to the preliminary report from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the accident occurred around 7:15 AM. Bloomquist's plane collided with a barn on his family's farm and caught fire immediately. Bloomquist was the only passenger on board, and authorities declared him dead at the scene. Investigations revealed that the aircraft had not been certified for flight since 2012, and Bloomquist did not hold a pilot's license.
Born in Iowa, Bloomquist moved to California with his family. He was introduced to flying by his father, an airline pilot. However, he chose a career in motorsports, becoming a legend in the sport.
A Glorious Racing Career
Bloomquist's racing career began in 1980 at Corona Raceway in California. Over the decades, he accumulated numerous victories and honors. Among them are the 2004 World of Outlaws Late Model Series Championship and the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series Championships in 2009, 2010, and 2016. His achievements solidified his status as a legend in dirt track racing, leading to his induction into the Dirt Late Model Hall of Fame in 2002.
Bloomquist became known for his aggressive driving style and unique personality. He became a symbol in the racing world. The iconic skull inside the "0" on his car represented his fierce competitive spirit. He was a formidable driver and demonstrated exceptional intelligence in car building, earning the respect of many peers as one of the smartest individuals in the world of dirt racing.
Tributes and Honors
Bloomquist's death prompted widespread mourning. The Scott Bloomquist Racing Facebook page posted a tribute, calling him a "great friend and hero." Jerry Caldwell, President and General Manager of Bristol Motor Speedway, described Bloomquist as "undoubtedly the greatest dirt late model driver in the history of the sport."
Rival driver Tony Stewart took to social media to assert, "His feats behind the wheel of a race car were matched by the wisdom he applied in building them. He was a force both on and off the track, with a personality as large as his accomplishments."
Bloomquist's friend and President of the Dirt Late Model Hall of Fame, Gerald Newton, noted, "The world has lost a great driver, a great friend, and a great father, but heaven has gained a great angel."
The loss of Scott Bloomquist is profound for the dirt racing community. His achievements and spirit will forever be etched in the annals of racing history. Although he is no longer with us, his legacy will continue to inspire and influence future generations of drivers.
