Dirt track icon Scott Bloomquist killed, Internet mourns loss of 'legend' racer

MOORESBURG, TENNESSEE: Legendary dirt track racer Scott Bloomquist, 60, tragically lost his life in a small plane crash near his Mooresburg, Tennessee, home on the morning of Friday, August 16.

The racing icon, renowned for his Number 0 late model cars, had a 40-year career, earning over 600 victories.

Scott Bloomquist's success on the dirt track

Scott Bloomquist's impact on the racing world was profound. His achievements include nine national championships and the 2004 World of Outlaws Late Model series title.

In addition to his success on the dirt track, Bloomquist competed in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and the ARCA Menards Series, as reported by TMZ.

Bloomquist was a native of Iowa and owned Team Zero Race Cars. His contributions to the sport were recognized in 2002 when he was inducted into the National Dirt Late Model Hall of Fame.

In 2016, he secured a top-five finish in a Schaeffer’s Oil Spring Nationals Series race in Tazewell, Tennessee.

The racing community was stunned by the news of Bloomquist's death when a family friend Reid Millard, shared the news on Facebook.

He said that Bloomquist was flying one of his vintage planes around the family farm when the accident occurred.

"His mother Georgette just called me and wanted me to announce that he lost his life this morning," Millard wrote.

He continued, "Along with Scott's daughter Ariel, his parents, his sister, and all of you who knew and loved Scott – you are in our hearts and prayers of all our Millard Family. God's speed Scott. May you fly high on an Eagle's wing forever."

Racing community says Scott Bloomquist's passion for racing will be 'deeply missed'

As soon as Scott Bloomquist's death was announced, fans and peers alike took to social media to express their sorrow.

The World of Outlaws Late Models shared a tribute on X, formerly known as Twitter, saying, "RIP Scott Bloomquist."

World Racing Group CEO Brian Carter added, "Scott Bloomquist's legendary status not only grew out of his accomplishments on track, but his innovations throughout the dirt Late Model industry. "Bloomquist's passion for the sport and innovative mind will be deeply missed by all."

Fans mourn Scott Bloomquist's death, say his 'impact will be felt for generations'

The tributes continued to pour in from fans who admired Scott Bloomquist for his talent and unique presence in the sport.

One fan wrote on X, "A legend in the dirt racing world. Scott's impact will be felt for generations. Rest in peace, Scott Bloomquist."

Another fan reflected on the late racer's personality, saying, "This is another hard one for me. I know he got a lot of boos in the crowd, but that made me like him more."

"He was quiet, almost shy at the track from a fan standpoint. Much love to his daughter Ariel and wife Katrina & his close-knit family. Heartbroken for them," the user added.

On Facebook, a fan expressed disbelief, writing, "Wow, someone a lot of us thought was invincible. Rest in peace, Scott." Another added, "Damn! The greatest of all time is gone."

A sense of shock and mourning permeated the comments, with one fan sharing, "When I think of Scott Bloomquist, this is the photo I immediately think of! Cannot believe I’m typing this, but RIP Bloomer! Just in utter shock at the moment!"

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