Scott Bloomquist, a legendary figure in dirt track racing, tragically passed away at the age of 60 in a plane crash on his family’s farm in Mooresburg, Tennessee, on Friday. Known for his long hair and signature race car emblazoned with the number zero and a skull and crossbones, Bloomquist was a larger-than-life personality both on and off the track. He leaves behind his daughter Ariel, his parents, his sister, and a legacy unmatched in the racing world. With a net worth estimated to be around $5 million, Bloomquist’s contributions to the sport will never be forgotten.
Racing Icon
Bloomquist was not just any racer; he was a pioneer and a dominant force in dirt track racing. His name became synonymous with winning, and he earned the respect and admiration of fans and fellow racers alike. Jerry Caldwell, the president of Bristol Motor Speedway, called him “arguably the greatest dirt late model racer in the sport’s history.” His mastery of the sport was evident in every race, and his strategic mind made him a formidable competitor.
Ingenious Racer
Tony Stewart, another racing legend, paid tribute to Bloomquist by highlighting his brilliance both behind the wheel and in building race cars. Stewart described Bloomquist as “probably the smartest guy I’ve ever been around when it comes to dirt racing.” Bloomquist’s ability to innovate and push the boundaries of what was possible in racing set him apart from his peers. His cars were not just machines; they were extensions of his racing philosophy, designed with meticulous care and precision.
Tragic Accident
The plane crash that claimed Bloomquist’s life occurred when his Piper J3C-65 aircraft crashed into a barn on his family’s farm. The Hawkins County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Bloomquist was the sole occupant of the plane, and his remains were found at the crash site. The National Transportation Safety Board, in coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration, is investigating the cause of the crash. The loss of Bloomquist has sent shockwaves through the racing community and beyond.
Personal Life
Scott Bloomquist was born in Iowa but later moved to California, where his father worked as an airline pilot. His family eventually relocated to Tennessee, where they purchased the farm that would later become the site of the tragic accident. Bloomquist’s father played a crucial role in his entry into racing, passing down a car that young Scott would transform into a winning machine. Bloomquist’s journey from a young racer working odd jobs to fund his passion, to becoming a legend in the sport, is a testament to his dedication and talent.
Hall of Fame Inductee
Bloomquist’s contributions to dirt track racing were recognized when he was inducted into the National Dirt Late Model Hall of Fame in 2002. Gerald Newton, the president of the Hall of Fame and a close friend of Bloomquist, described him as an older brother figure. Newton also played a role in designing Bloomquist’s official merchandise, including the iconic skull logo that became a symbol of his racing persona. Bloomquist’s induction into the Hall of Fame was a well-deserved honor for a man who had done so much for the sport.
Cocky Persona
Bloomquist’s confidence and bravado were as much a part of his identity as his racing skills. He was known for his cocky attitude and his ability to back up his words with results on the track. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution once described him as someone who “looks like Tom Cruise, drives like Dale Earnhardt and speaks out like Darrell Waltrip.” Bloomquist’s larger-than-life persona made him a polarizing figure, but it also endeared him to many fans who appreciated his no-nonsense approach.
Legacy and Impact
Scott Bloomquist’s legacy in dirt track racing is unparalleled. His numerous accolades and achievements in the sport are unlikely to be surpassed. Newton, reflecting on Bloomquist’s life, said that his “accolades will never be exceeded.” Bloomquist’s impact on the sport goes beyond his wins; he was a mentor, a friend, and a father figure to many in the racing community. His loss is deeply felt by all who knew him, and his contributions to the sport will be remembered for generations to come.
Final Race
Despite his many accomplishments, Bloomquist was not ready to retire. He was still actively racing and had plans to compete in the upcoming World 100 at Eldora Speedway. Newton mentioned that Bloomquist “still felt like he could win a race,” a testament to his enduring passion for the sport. Bloomquist’s untimely death has cut short a career that was still going strong, but his spirit and legacy will live on in the hearts of racing fans everywhere.
Conclusion
The world of dirt track racing has lost one of its greatest champions in Scott Bloomquist. His death is a tragic reminder of the risks that come with both racing and flying, two passions that defined his life. As the racing community mourns his passing, they also celebrate the incredible legacy he leaves behind. Scott Bloomquist was a racer, a legend, and a man who lived life on his own terms. He will be deeply missed, but his impact on the sport will never be forgotten.