Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) announced that it has signed driver Denny Hamlin to a driver development contract. Beginning in 2004, Hamlin, 23, will test a NASCAR Busch Series car and
an ARCA car with the plan to enter select races in each of those divisions in 2005. “We are certainly very excited about Denny’s potential,” said J.D. Gibbs, president of Joe Gibbs Racing. “I know first-hand how difficult and challenging it is to compete and win at the local short-track level. Denny has a ton of talent and has won races in everything he’s ever driven. We are confident that he will continue
that success with us in the years to come.” A native of Chesterfield, VA, Hamlin started his career at the age of seven when he began competing in go-karts. He won his very first go-kart race and his go-kart accomplishments include over 50 wins. Hamlin won the 1994 Amelia Track Championship in the Junior Restricted and Junior Super Stock Division, and he placed fourth in the 1995 WKA National Championship. In 1997 at the age of 16, Hamlin began his stock car racing career. In his first stock car race, Hamlin won the pole, set a new track record, and won the race at the season opener at Langley Speedway. He finished the season by winning the Rookie of the Year title and two track championships (Langley Speedway and Southside Speedway in Richmond, VA). Hamlin moved to the Grand Stock division in 1998 and 1999, winning five races. He also racked up 20 top fives and 38 top tens. Hamlin finished second in points at Southside Speedway and won the Most Popular Driver Award in 1999. In 2000 Hamlin started racing Late Model Stock Cars, and he won the Rookie of the Year Award at Southside Speedway. The following year Hamlin finished in the top ten at every race at Southampton Motor Speedway. Finally, in 2002, Hamlin broke into the Late Model Stock Car winner’s circle as he recorded 10 wins, 15 poles and 26 top fives. Hamlin’s 2003 season was simply dominating as he won an astounding 25 races in just 36 starts. He finished in the top five 32 times and also won 30 poles.
“There are many people I must thank that contributed to the development of my racing career,” said Hamlin. “My parents helped
pave the way for me, and we always had several friends and family members who were eagerly willing to help out in times of need. In
addition, Jim Dean (Hamlin’s current Late Model Stock Car owner) has given me a great opportunity to drive his car the last couple of
years. I am so thrilled to be involved with such a great organization like Joe Gibbs Racing,” Hamlin continued. “It is very humbling to hear Joe Gibbs Racing express such excitement and confidence in me. I can’t wait to get in one of their cars and translate their excitement and confidence into actual results on the track.”(Joe Gibbs Racing PR)(3-25-2004)
