CHESAPEAKE, VA (WTKR)- Ricky Rudd’s journey to stardom started in Chesapeake, went through Indian River High School and took him to legendary status.
Monday saw the NASCAR Hall of Famer return to his home town, serving as the keynote speaker for the Chesapeake Sports Club’s monthly luncheon.
“This is always home,” said Rudd, who resides near Charlotte. “It’s been home to me. Life changes and things get in the way and we thought we’d make it back here one day to retire. It just didn’t work out that way, but I’ve still got a lot of friends and family in this area and it’s great to be home.”
Rudd spoke to a crowd of about 250 people at the event, which took place at the Chesapeake Conference Center. He discussed his racing career, but mostly focused on the beginning in Hampton Roads, recalling some close calls and crashes during his childhood in Chesapeake.