Photo credit: www.motorsport.com
At the age of 45, it’s remarkable to recall that Kasey Kahne has not competed in a NASCAR stock car for nearly seven years. The accomplished driver has participated in over 500 Cup races, capturing 18 victories during his career, which ended unexpectedly in the middle of the 2018 season.
Kahne withdrew from racing due to severe heat exhaustion that he experienced during the long, grueling events, which led to an uncontrolled heart rate and a failure to maintain proper body temperature. Despite his fitness and dedication, he struggled with debilitating dehydration, a situation that was becoming increasingly grave. He articulated his concerns, mentioning the danger of potentially losing consciousness while driving or risking heat stroke if he continued to race.
Fast forward seven years, and Kahne is set for a much-anticipated return, at least for a single event. As the Cup Series takes its only off-weekend for the remainder of the year, Kahne will be piloting the No. 33 Chevrolet for Richard Childress Racing at Rockingham, a venue that has not hosted a NASCAR event for several years and one that holds fond memories for the veteran driver. While Kahne has not been behind the wheel of a stock car, his time spent racing in numerous dirt sprint car events will serve him well for this upcoming race, marking it as the longest distance he has raced since his hiatus.
To commemorate Kahne’s highly anticipated return to stock car racing, let’s revisit some of his most memorable moments in the sport.
Early Impressions of a Rising Star
Matt Kenseth takes the checkered flag inches ahead of Kasey Kahne
Photo by: Motorsport Images
Kasey Kahne’s rookie season in 2004 was notable not just for its challenges but also for the near-misses that defined it. He led nearly 700 laps and finished second five times without a win, culminating in an unforgettable finale at Rockingham. In that race, reigning champion Matt Kenseth found himself challenged by the rookie Kahne in a dramatic finish. As Kenseth entered the final corner, he likely anticipated Kahne would follow his path into the dirty air. However, the rookie surprised him by diving down the track and racing side by side with Kenseth. In just his second Cup race, Kahne drove with remarkable skill, ultimately finishing just 0.010 seconds behind Kenseth. From that moment on, Kahne’s name became one to watch in NASCAR.
Heartfelt Victory for the Fans
Race winner Kasey Kahne celebrates
Photo by: Motorsport.com / ASP Inc.
In 2008, after establishing a new partnership with Budweiser, Kahne faced a challenge in securing a spot in the prestigious All-Star Race. Although he could not secure a position through qualifying, he gained entry through the Fan Vote, earning gratitude from supporters. Demonstrating his appreciation, Kahne surged through the field to clinch a stunning victory at the All-Star Race, capturing a $1 million prize in the process—an achievement no other fan-vote recipient has accomplished. Just one week later, he continued his winning streak by securing victory in the Coke 600, showcasing his knack for performing in NASCAR’s demanding longest races.
Unforgettable Photo Finishes
Kasey Kahne, JR Motorsports Chevrolet beats Erik Jones, Kyle Busch Motorsports Toyota to win
Photo by: NASCAR Media
Kahne was known for being part of many near photo finishes, and 2015 provided one of the most exhilarating moments. During a late overtime restart at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Kahne found himself racing neck and neck with Erik Jones in what would be recorded as the closest finish ever at the venue’s national level, and the third-closest in Truck Series history. Engaging in a riveting battle, Kahne made contact with Jones while desperately trying to gain an advantage. By a mere 0.005 seconds, Kahne secured the win—a highlight of his racing career.
Milestone Moments with Red Bull
Race winner Kasey Kahne, Red Bull Racing Red Bull Toyota celebrates
Photo by: Action Sports Photography
During a one-year stint with Red Bull Racing, Kahne made his mark in a team that was on the verge of shutting its doors. In his final race for the organization in Phoenix, he triumphed, thwarting the playoff hopes of championship contenders while driving the No. 4 Toyota. Kahne’s victory not only exemplified his skills but also highlighted Red Bull’s potential in NASCAR, right before the team dissolved.
The Revival of Rockingham
Start action
Photo by: NASCAR Media
This upcoming race marks another chapter in the history of Rockingham, which last hosted a NASCAR event in 2004. Kahne was one of the drivers to participate in a Truck Series race there in 2012—the first race at Rockingham in years. As the race unfolded, he gradually made his way to the front, ultimately winning the event as he overtook Matt Crafton with 46 laps remaining. As the Xfinity Series returns to Rockingham after a 21-year hiatus, Kahne’s prior experience on the track could allow him to replicate success.
A Chaotic Finale at the Brickyard
Race winner Kasey Kahne, Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet
Photo by: Russell LaBounty / NKP / Motorsport Images
For many drivers, a memorable last win solidifies their legacy, and Kahne achieved just that in 2017. Unbeknownst to him at the time, the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway would be his final victory in the Cup Series. The race featured significant chaos when the front-runners, Kyle Busch and Martin Truex Jr., collided, reshaping the dynamics of the competition. As the race progressed, it became a matter of fuel strategy, with Kahne managing to return to the forefront after a late caution. In a decisive moment with just two laps remaining, he found himself in the middle of a three-wide battle for the lead. Even as teammate Jimmie Johnson struggled with a faltering engine, Kahne remained composed, narrowly avoiding disaster and ultimately securing his 18th career victory, leaving a lasting impression on NASCAR.
Source
www.motorsport.com