Three memorable moments at Chicagoland

CONCORD, N.C. – It’s finally here.

After months of discussion, anticipation and preparation, the NASCAR Chase for the Sprint Cup is ready to debut its new playoff-style format at Chicagoland Speedway.

Before the green flag drops on Sunday, let’s take a look back at three memorable Hendrick Motorsports moments at the Illinois track.

July 9, 2006: Jeff Gordon started the 270-lap event at Chicagoland Speedway from the 13th position. After taking the lead at Lap 263, Gordon held on to cross the finish line first, three car lengths ahead of his opponent. The race marked both Hendrick Motorsports’ and Gordon’s first Cup win at Chicagoland Speedway. The 2006 season finished on a high note for Hendrick Motorsports, as the organization won its sixth Cup championship at the end of the year with Jimmie Johnson.

July 11, 2009: Mark Martin gave a dominating performance at the NASCAR Cup event at Chicagoland Speedway on July 11, 2009. The driver of the No. 5 Chevrolet led a race-high 195 laps en route to his fourth victory of the 2009 season. His teammate Gordon finished behind him in second, giving Hendrick Motorsports its 27th one-two finish of the organization’s existence. Hendrick Motorsports also took home its ninth Cup championship that year, with Johnson behind the wheel of the championship-winning Chevrolet.

Sept. 16, 2012: Jimmie Johnson began the first Chase race of the 2012 season with plenty of speed, as he piloted his No. 48 Lowe’s Chevrolet at 182.865 mph to win the pole at Chicagoland. After leading a race-high 172 laps, he finished second, with teammate Kasey Kahne behind him in third. Johnson went on to win two Chase races from the pole position to close out the 2012 season.