Former NASCAR driver Kevin Harvick took part in the CARS Tour race at North Wilkesboro Speedway on Saturday. Despite retiring from formal NASCAR racing last year, Harvick showcased his enduring passion for the sport by starting 20th in the 33-car field and finishing 10th.
Throughout his long and illustrious career, Harvick, a native of Bakersfield, amassed 60 wins and clinched the Cup Series championship in 2014, his maiden season driving for Stewart-Haas Racing. Since retiring, Harvick has continued to contribute to the sport in various capacities. He currently serves as a NASCAR analyst with FOX Sports, providing expert commentary and insights during broadcasts. In addition, he hosts a weekly podcast known as “Happy Hour,” where he shares his experiences and perspectives on the racing world. Harvick also co-owns the zMAX CARS Tour alongside NASCAR legends Dale Earnhardt Jr., Jeff Burton, and Justin Marks.
Veteran Sportsnaut journalist Matt Weaver shared the complete results of the CARS Tour race at North Wilkesboro Speedway in a post on X, capturing the excitement and competitive spirit of the event. While Harvick did not have the fastest car on the grid, he expressed his satisfaction with the opportunity to race again. He was particularly impressed by the number of drivers who showed up to compete despite the unfavorable weather conditions.
“I learned that I’m slow,” Harvick admitted in an interview with FloRacing. “That’s what I learned the most, and you know, it’s hard to come in here and compete with these guys when they race all the time.” He added, “This is a tough weekend to come and have a makeup race with a rain date, and to have this many cars show up says a lot about our competitors, and we appreciate that. So, I’m looking forward to tonight and learning, and I’ve been able to be around the cars a lot since I finished my yearly job at FOX.”
The race was temporarily halted by rain for about half an hour, with the stoppage lifted at 8:15 pm EST, allowing the pre-race ceremonies to proceed.
In addition to his involvement in racing, Harvick continues to make an impact through his philanthropic efforts. The Kevin Harvick Foundation will host its second annual junior golf tournament from August 6 to 9 at the Bakersfield Country Club. The 54-hole tournament will feature approximately 15 college students and 25 former champions in the category. Last year’s winners were Sterling Hurd from Austin, Texas, and Sophia Lin from Taiwan.
The Kevin Harvick Foundation, established in 2010 by Harvick and his wife DeLana, is dedicated to helping children in need achieve their goals in life. Reflecting on the foundation’s mission, Harvick stated, “There are many children who have dreams of becoming a race car driver, a policeman, a doctor, or scientist, but don’t see a way to achieve those dreams. DeLana and I want to provide opportunities to children who might not realize their potential and give them the courage to pursue their dreams.”
Meanwhile, NASCAR prepares for its next regular season race on August 11, just two days after Harvick’s junior golf tournament. The 400-lap race will take place at Sonoma Raceway and will be broadcast live on the USA Network and NBC Sports starting at 6 pm ET. As the racing season continues, Harvick’s presence both on and off the track remains a testament to his enduring commitment to the sport and its community.
