AD's FIRST Cup Win

Sunday, May 28th at 12:30AM, Austin won the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. He passed the #48 car with two laps to go. Jimmie Johnson ran out of gas! The #78 was catching Austin quickly with new tires and the #18 was right behind him. The tension was heavy. Anything could happen at this point. I was shaking and tears were pouring down my face as I watched Austin cross the finish line. HE DID IT! It has been 17 years since the #3 car was in Victory Lane. This is LEGENDARY and I’m so grateful to have experience this moment with my future husband.

This is the greatest day in racing because three prestigious races happen throughout the day. The race in Monaco, Indy 500, and the Coca-Cola 600 to wrap up the day. The Coca-Cola 600 is the longest race of the year and is known as one of the crown jewels of racing. 

Austin's Dad, Mike Dillon, Pop Pop Richard Childress, Whitney, Austin, and mom Tina Dillon

I’ve had a lot of you ask what I was doing and where I was when he won. Our bus driver came running in to get me and said, “LETS GO.” The TV is delayed so I didn’t know he had won but Dkyman was listening to him on the radio and radio is present time. I literally stood there in complete shock, and said, “ARE WE GONNA WIN?” and Dkyman died laughing and said, “WE ALREADY WON, LETS GO.”

Austin's crew celebrating the victory

Victory Lane was UNREAL. My best friend, the monster girls, RCR, ECR, Austin’s family, my brother, Denny Hamlin and the RCR drivers all came to celebrate. The only thing missing was my parents and they were dying they couldn’t make it.

Whit's brother Jackson Ward with future brother in law Austin Dillon

The party didn’t stop there either. We finally got home at 5:00AM and EVERYONE was waiting at our house to continue the celebration. People were pouring in with love and support for Austin and his crew. We didn’t call one person to come over and I think thats how you know you’re loved. Almost every person from victory lane beat us home to celebrate. We didn’t sleep at all!

One of the coolest parts was Austin’s epic burnout in his gold camaro. If you haven’t seen it, WATCH THIS! 

When I tell you, I felt like all my dreams had come to pass, everything felt complete. My fiancee, Austin Dillon, is the hardest working man I know. He’s the toughest and he’s a fighter. It’s hard to watch the man you love come home empty handed week after week. This year has been the hardest. We’ve had the worse luck with broken parts, bad race cars, and sheer bad luck.

I always did my best to stay positive and pour confidence into Austin. Austin’s support system is unreal. His parents, family, friends, and fans always keep him motivated. However, during the tough times, God is always trying to show us something. There’s always a lesson to be learned, you just have to allow God to work in you. After all, God’s way is always better than our own. 

If I could give any kind of advice it would be to always be thankful during the hard times because God is shaping you for the good. God cares more about your character and bringing you home to Heaven than any materialistic thing He could bless you with on earth. Lastly, remember to praise God during the bad. On the worst days, fall to your knees and thank Him. We serve a GOOD God and a very intentional God. 

Every week I write a bible scripture in his race car along with a little note. I started this tradition in 2016. I love blessing his race car with God’s word. I believe with all my heart that it keeps Austin safe. 

This week’s scripture was Proverbs 3:4-5 “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” I also wrote a little motivation which read, ‘When you keep God first place, He will take you places you’ve never imagined.' Also, 'GiiC' stands for God is in Control.

This win is a testimony of God’s hand! Every little detail about this race goes back to God. He gets all the Glory. Thank You Jesus!

Lastly, we’re so grateful and humbled by all the love and support. Every single text, comment, message, and like has not gone unnoticed. We’ve tried to reply to all of you but if I missed you here is your thank you. WE LOVE YOU GUYS! 

Cheers to 2017! Our wedding year and Austin’s first cup win!!!!!

XO

Whit + Austin 

Toasting to the big win right after the race

Accepting his champions ring and watch from track owner, Marcus Smith

Your Coca-Cola 600 Winner, Mr. Austin Dillon!!!!