Jeff Gordon

Jeff Gordon wins at Phoenix (Yahoo)

"Jeff Gordon rounds turn four, becomes the first driver in the history of Phoenix International Raceway to win a cup race from the pole. Jeff Gordon finally gets his first Phoenix win and ties Dale Earnhardt!” (Mike Joy). From when he was a boy, motor racing has always fascinated Gordon. Born in Vallejo, California, a state not big on racing, Gordon and his step father, John Bickford, worked hard to get him in a racecar. Within a few years, Gordon was racing fifty-two weekends every year. Jeff Gordon is one of the most successful NASCAR drivers in history. Along with four championships, eighty plus wins, and rookie of the year in 1993, Jeff Gordon is a generous person who is always looking to give back. He is an all around terrific person who is successful, determined, and is the perfect example of a hero.

Jeff Gordon in his first year of NASCAR racing (Yahoo)

From the moment Gordon arrived in Nascar, he instantly became a sensation. His on-track performance in NASCAR’s Busch Series grabbed the attention of famous car owner Rick Hendrick, who would ultimately be the biggest contributor to Gordon’s success. “Somebody asked me what I was gonna do about him, I said I was gonna hire him, that’s what I'm gonna try to do.” (Rick Hendrick). Hendrick knew right away that Gordon had talent, and it showed. Since then, Gordon has gone on to win four championships and over eighty races. Even so, not all of his victories have come quick and easy. In many cases Gordon has had to stay patient and determined. “Seventeen tries at Texas, seventeen is the lucky number for Jeff Gordon. He finally wins in Texas.” (Mike Joy). Throughout his career, Gordon’s successes have come over time. It has taken him eighteen years to have achieved all these victories.

Jeff Gordon Children's Hospital (Yahoo)

Though Gordon is an accomplished NASCAR driver, he finds the time to give back. Gordon founded his own foundation and established the Jeff Gordon Children’s Hospital. “Compelled to make a difference in the lives of children, Jeff Gordon founded the Jeff Gordon Foundation in 1999. After meeting hundreds of children through visits to Children’s Hospitals and granting wishes through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Jeff searched for a way to give back to the children in his own community.” (Jeff Gordon Foundation website). Through his fame and wealth, Gordon has made significant changes in the lives of young children. His Children’s Hospital has made the difference in life or death for many ill kids. Over the years, Gordon has won many awards off the track too. “2006 Champions for Life Award.” (Jeff Gordon Foundation website). These awards have congratulated Gordon on a job well done. He welcomes opportunity to lend a helping hand and is revered for his assistance. Giving back always puts a smile on Gordon’s face.

Jeff Gordon passes teammate Jimmie Johnson (Yahoo)

Jeff Gordon has definitely been successful. Along his professional career, Gordon has racked up plenty of admirable achievements. Not only winning multiple NASCAR championships, but he has also been recognized for his Children’s Hospital and foundation. Gordon persuades others to want to make a difference in their own communities. Gordon is an inspiration to everyone as he displays tremendous generosity and desire.

Works Consulted

Aldridge, Marion. "Gordon, Jeff (1971-)." American Decades 1990-1999. Ed. McConnell. Detroit: Gale Group, 2001. Student Resource Center - Gold. Gale. DEL NORTE HIGH SCHOOL. 14 May. 2010 .

Eggert, Mike. "Gordon, Jeff (1971-)." Newsmakers. Detroit: Gale Research, 1996. Student Resource Center - Gold. Gale. DEL NORTE HIGH SCHOOL. 14 May. 2010 .

"Gordon, Jeff (1971-)." UXL Biographies. Online ed. Detroit: UXL, 2003. Student Resource Center - Gold. Gale. DEL NORTE HIGH SCHOOL. 14 May. 2010 .

"Jeff Gordon Children's Hospital." www.jeffgordonfoundation.or. Jeff Gordon Foundation, n.d. Web. 14 May 2010.