Scott Bloomquist: A Racing Legend Lost in Tragic Plane Crash
Scott Bloomquist, an iconic figure in the world of late model dirt racing, tragically died in a plane crash near his home in Mooresburg, Tennessee. The incident, which took place on a Friday morning, involved a single-engine Piper J-3 aircraft, a vintage plane owned by Bloomquist himself. The crash occurred around 7:50 a.m., when the plane collided with a barn on his family farm. The news was confirmed by Hawkins County Mayor Mark DeWitte, with further details released by family friend Reid Millard, who spoke on behalf of Bloomquist’s mother, Georgie.
The crash has prompted an investigation by both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), as the racing community mourns the loss of one of its most celebrated figures. Bloomquist was 60 years old and left behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations.
A Career of Unparalleled Success
Scott Bloomquist’s career in dirt racing is nothing short of legendary. Making his debut in 1980, he quickly rose through the ranks, earning nine national championships and amassing over 600 victories in various touring series. His dominance on the track made him a household name among racing fans, and his influence extended far beyond just his race results.
In 2002, Scott Bloomquist was inducted into the National Dirt Late Model Hall of Fame, solidifying his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats. His success wasn’t just due to his driving skills, but also his innovative approach to the sport. Bloomquist was known for his ingenuity, constantly pushing the boundaries of what was possible in dirt racing. Whether it was developing new chassis designs or improving racetrack conditions, his contributions to the sport were numerous and impactful.
Brian Carter, CEO of the World Racing Group, highlighted Bloomquist’s influence on the industry, noting that his efforts helped rebuild the World of Outlaws Late Models, allowing the series to grow into what it is today. Bloomquist’s passion and innovative mind not only set him apart as a racer but also as a visionary who shaped the future of the sport.
Tributes from the Racing Community
The news of Bloomquist’s death sent shock waves through the racing community, with many expressing their grief and admiration for the late racer. Tony Stewart, a four-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and co-owner of Stewart-Haas Racing, described Bloomquist as “one of a kind” and one of the smartest individuals he had ever met in the dirt racing world. Stewart praised Bloomquist’s skills behind the wheel, as well as his ingenuity in building race cars, emphasizing that Bloomquist’s presence will be sorely missed in the sport.
Former NASCAR driver Clint Bowyer also paid tribute, noting that Bloomquist’s life was filled with so many stories that it would take more than just one movie to capture it all. Bowyer’s sentiments echoed those of many who recognized Bloomquist not only for his accomplishments but also for the larger-than-life personality that he brought to the sport.
The outpouring of tributes from fellow racers, fans, and industry leaders serves as a testament to the profound impact Scott Bloomquist had on dirt racing. His legacy will undoubtedly live on in the memories of those who admired him and in the continued evolution of the sport he loved so much.