Rick Hendrick’s Family Emergency has kept him from attending the celebrations as NASCAR history was in making. Jimmie Johnson legend continued as he lifted the cup and a bottle of champagne.

Rick Hendrick’ spoekesman later stated that he would definitely have attended the event, but the pressing family emergency required his presence and of course his first priority is his family.

Jimmie Johnson’s real competition was his own team mate Jeff Gordon, but he stood third. Jubilant Johnson told the crowd that the win is not a full stop to his wins and they will be witnessing him winning again in the coming championships.

Mark Martin occupied the second stand and said that obviously the absence of Rick Hendrick is being felt but that, he and his team mates are praying for Rick and his family. He also congratulated Jimmie and called him a “Superman”.

Martin also remarked “My equipment is just as good, but I am not as good as Jimmie Johnson,”

Rick Hendrick’s family emergency pertains to his niece named Alesha Gainey. Alesha’s liver had to be replaced with some donor’s liver in emergency. Alesha is 29 and the daughter of Rick’s brother John. Rick’s presence at the time of surgery became more necessary as John has died in an accident. That unfortunate accident also claimed the life of Rick’s son Ricky and John’s two other daughters. Rick left on Saturday to join the family.

Meanwhile Jimmie Johnson has signed a contract, to be driving for Rick till 2015.

Rick Hendrick

Rick Hendrick

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