By Ryan - Posted on November 27, 2009
On Sunday, November 22, 2009, NASCAR’s no. 48, Jimmie Johnson accomplished a feat that has never been matched in the entire 60 year history of the organization. The race itself didn’t prove to be spectacular for the 33 year old driver of the highly recognized and esteemed blue and yellow Lowe’s car. Johnson placed a respectable 5th place in the Ford 400 that transpired in Miami over the weekend under partly cloudy skies.
Regardless of his finishing position, when he crossed the finish line under the waving checkered flag, Johnson began his celebration by treating the cheering crowd to a spectacular smoke show. Indeed, Johnson lost the race, but on this day, there was a more significant achievement that he was reaching for; more significant than a single race victory. This 5th place finish gave Johnson enough points to capture his 4th consecutive Sprint Cup Series title and elevate him into the ranks of the racing elite and into history itself.
Johnson began his racing career at the young age of 5; starting out by racing 50 cc motorcycles. From there, he never looked back. Now, after emerging into NASCAR 8 years ago, Jimmie has earned the right to call himself a true champion, both on and off the track.
Not only does Johnson tear up the track with every race he participates in, he also makes a huge impact on fans outside of the sports scene. The Jimmie Johnson Foundation strives to help children in all walks of life by funding educational programs, health programs, and helping families in need; giving back to various communities as well as to his home town of El Cajon, California; a tiny suburb nestled near the beautiful city of San Diego.
It is his extraordinary style and class combined with an unparalleled determination that has promoted Johnson to the head of the NASCAR organization. Not only has Johnson benefited from his fabulous racing skills, but his efforts have also helped his team mates considerably. This is a year of firsts for NASCAR. Not only has Johnson personally made history, but this is also the first time a team has captured the top three positions in the final standings.
One final question remains to be answered regarding Johnson’s fantastic racing career: how far can he really go? What goals will Johnson be setting his sights on for the future? Avid NASCAR fans are eager to solve this query. But, at this point, Johnson is probably as much in the dark as his loyal fans. He is more focused on enjoying the present than worrying about the future.
