Sad News: Joey Logano and Chase Elliott
Fans of NASCAR and movie enthusiasts alike will remember the iconic film “Days of Thunder,” which showcased the thrilling world of stock car racing through the eyes of its memorable characters. It’s a film that has left a lasting impact on the sport and continues to capture the hearts of new generations. Recently, however, some tragic news has shaken both the NASCAR community and film fans: Joey Logano and Chase Elliott, two of the sport’s brightest stars, have announced their retirement from professional racing.
Logano and Elliott have been integral to the sport, each carving their own legacies through remarkable performances and fierce rivalries. Logano’s aggressive driving style and strategic acumen earned him a championship title, while Elliott’s fan-favorite status and determination on the track brought a new wave of excitement to NASCAR. Their departure marks the end of a thrilling era and leaves fans longing for what could have been.
While the news is undeniably heartbreaking, it also brings to mind the nostalgia of the “Days of Thunder” era, in which fictional racers captured our imagination. Recently, I stumbled upon a remarkable discovery: two screen-used cars from the film sitting together in a small shop. One of these cars belonged to Cole Trickle, played by Tom Cruise, a bright yellow Mellow Yellow machine that embodied the fast-paced exhilaration of racing. The other, a classic Hardee’s car driven by Russ Wheeler, is a vibrant reminder of the film’s intense rivalries.
These cars, once driven in iconic racing scenes, symbolize more than just a film; they represent a golden age of racing when the line between reality and fiction often blended. Looking at these vintage vehicles, it is easy to reminisce about the electrifying races, the passion of the fans, and the unforgettable characters that paved the way for modern-day racers like Logano and Elliott.
As we reflect on their contributions to NASCAR, we also remember the excitement and camaraderie that racing brings. Even though the sport will look different without these two icons, their legacies will live on, both in the hearts of fans and in the cherished memories of classic films like “Days of Thunder.” These screen-used cars are a testament not just to a moment in cinema, but to a broader celebration of racing, perseverance, and loyalty to the sport we all know and love.
Idk who all has seen Days of thunder but I came across two screen used cars sitting in some shop. Cole trickles mellow yellow car and Russ wheelers Hardee’s car. He also has some old 60s nascar. As well as a late 90s repainted dale car. He told me that these two were found in a field somewhere in Georgia and hasn’t been touched really since. Exact location of these cars won’t be shared due to privacy of owner. But if I can get his permission I will share the location so that all nascar/ days of thunder fans can see them.