YORK HAVEN, Pa. (AP) -- Sprint Car driver Greg Hodnett has died after a crash Thursday night at BAPS Motor Speedway.
The 49-year-old Hodnett, from Spring Grove, was the World of Outlaws Rookie of the Year in 1993 and went on to win 20 World of Outlaws races. He won the opening night this year at the Knoxville Nationals.
growing up listening to stories of dad and hodnett battling at riverside speedway and then getting to know him and race with him, its a very sad night for the racing community. thoughts and prayers to his family, friends and fans!!
— Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (@StenhouseJr) September 21, 2018
Read More: Jason Johnson, World of Outlaws Driver, Dies Following Crash
"Greg represented the true gentleman competitor in the pit area," World of Outlaws CEO Brian Carter said.
There are names and then there are really cool names.. I always smiled with excitement when the announcer would say.... “Greg Hodnett”.... I am SO SORRY everyone....
— Kenny Wallace (@Kenny_Wallace) September 21, 2018
A statement was posted on Hodnett's racing website, saying: "Please keep (wife) Sherry, the entire Hodnett family, and the Heffner racing team in your thoughts and prayers. Greg was a professional in every sense of the word, and will be desperately missed!"
Thoughts and prayers go out to Greg Hodnett, his family and friends. I’ve always felt Greg was one of the best to ever strap into a sprint car and accomplish the things he has across the country. Feel honored to have had some great battles with him over the last few years! RIP
— Kyle Larson (@KyleLarsonRacin) September 21, 2018
Read More: Legendary Drag Racer Doug Rose Dies at 80 After Crash