On August 16, 2024, the motorsports community mourned the loss of Scott Bloomquist, a legendary figure in dirt track racing, who tragically died in a plane crash near his residence in Mooresburg, Tennessee. Bloomquist, aged 60, was piloting his vintage single-engine Piper J-3 aircraft when it crashed on his family farm during the early morning hours. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the aircraft involved in the accident.
Born on November 14, 1963, in Fort Dodge, Iowa, Scott Dean Bloomquist embarked on his racing career in the early 1980s. Over a span of more than four decades, he established himself as a dominant force in dirt late model racing. His impressive achievements include three Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series championships and 33 victories in the World of Outlaws Late Model Series. In recognition of his contributions to the sport, Bloomquist was inducted into the National Dirt Late Model Hall of Fame in 2002. citeturn0search1
Beyond his racing accolades, Bloomquist was known for his charismatic and sometimes controversial personality, which endeared him to fans and fellow competitors alike. He was not only a driver but also a skilled chassis builder, founding Team Zero Race Cars to design and manufacture race cars. His hands-on approach and innovative designs have left a lasting impact on the sport. citeturn0search3
Bloomquist’s passion extended beyond the racetrack to the skies; he was an avid aviation enthusiast from a young age and owned a collection of vintage aircraft. Tragically, it was this passion that led to the accident on his property. The news of his untimely death prompted an outpouring of tributes from the racing community. NASCAR Cup Series driver Tyler Reddick, whom Bloomquist had mentored, dedicated his win at Michigan International Speedway shortly after the incident to Bloomquist’s memory.
Scott Bloomquist is survived by his parents, sister, and daughter, Ariel. His legacy in dirt track racing is profound, with over 600 career victories and multiple national championships. His innovative spirit, competitive drive, and larger-than-life persona have left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring future generations of racers.
