NASHVILLE — On Thursday night at the Music City Center, the NASCAR Champion’s Week festivities concluded with the honoring of Ryan Blaney, who reached the pinnacle of the sport — claiming the NASCAR Cup Series title. “Obviously, growing up, watching dad race, that’s just what I wanted to do, and I wanted to be like my dad,” Blaney said. Blaney had special praise for team owner Roger Penske, who has fielded Cup cars for Blaney for the last six seasons. All 16 of the NASCAR Cup Series Playoff drivers appeared on stage during the award ceremony. “I think he’s matured a lot, and it’s very gratifying to see him win the Xfinity Series championship,” said team owner Gene Haas. “At the end of that race in Phoenix, when we held that championship trophy, I’ve never been more proud to be a part of that (team),” Custer said.

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