Scott Bloomquist, a successful veteran of dirt track racing, passed away on Friday, August 16, 2024, after his vintage Piper J3C-65 Cub plane crashed at his family farm in Mooresburg, Tennessee. At the time of his death, he was 60 years old.

As per Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) records, Bloomquist did not have a current pilot’s license when the vintage aircraft crashed into a barn on his property shortly after 7 a.m. The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board are conducting an investigation into the crash. Early reports suggest that the plane caught fire upon impact, with Bloomquist being the only person on board.

In a career spanning four decades, Bloomquist amassed over 600 wins and claimed nine national championships. His distinctive No. 0 late model cars were a staple on dirt tracks nationwide, with significant triumphs including four World 100 titles at Eldora Speedway in Ohio and five victories at the Cedar Lake Speedway USA Nationals. He was honored with induction into the National Dirt Late Model Hall of Fame in 2002.

While Bloomquist’s career was primarily associated with dirt racing, he also dabbled in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and the ARCA Menards Series. Despite his brief stint in NASCAR, he remained a prominent figure in dirt track racing, with his most recent Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series title coming in 2016. In 2018, he secured another significant victory at Eldora Speedway by winning the Dream XXIV.

Beyond his racing achievements, Bloomquist is recognized for his contributions to car design. As the owner of Team Zero Race Cars, his innovative designs have significantly influenced the evolution of dirt late-model chassis. His contributions have facilitated the success of many drivers on the track. Kenny Wallace, a fellow driver, touted him as the most intelligent figure in dirt racing.

Tony Stewart, a four-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and co-owner of Stewart-Haas Racing, praised Bloomquist for his exceptional skills both as a driver and a designer. Stewart emphasized Bloomquist’s significant impact on dirt racing and noted his large-as-life personality that matched his numerous accomplishments in the sport.

Former NASCAR driver Clint Bowyer expressed his sorrow over Bloomquist’s demise. He reflected on the numerous stories from Bloomquist’s life and suggested that a single film wouldn’t be enough to tell his full story.

Bloomquist’s career was marked by numerous challenges. In 2019, he suffered severe leg and hip injuries in a motorcycle accident which sidelined him from racing for several months. Despite these obstacles and a recent battle with prostate cancer, he continued to race until his untimely death.

Survived by his daughter, Ariel, his parents, and sister, Scott Bloomquist leaves behind a rich legacy in racing. His influence will continue to be felt through the innovations he introduced to the sport and his numerous victories. The racers who continue to drive the cars he helped design are a testament to his enduring impact.