Craftsman Tools and NASCAR have announced the winners of the first annual NASCAR Craftsman Wrenchman Award. The awards recognize behind-the-scenes NASCAR crew members from each of the three national NASCAR series who “turn the wrenches” in the shop and along pit row, but rarely get the recognition they deserve.
The winner from the Sprint Cup Series was chosen by online fan voting. Winners from the Nationwide Series and Camping World Truck Series were selected by a committee.
The winners include:
• Andrew Mason, Shop Foreman, Richard Childress Racing No. 29, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series
• Ramie Jones, Team Engineer, Braun Racing No. 32, NASCAR Nationwide Series
• Bob Rahilly, Truck Chief, Jim Rosenblum Racing No. 28, NASCAR Camping World Truck Series
Leading up to voting, all teams from the three NASCAR series were given the opportunity to nominate one crew member for the award based on the core attributes of trust, quality, knowledge and innovation when performing their job. All crew members, whether they work in the race shop or travel with the teams to the racetrack, were eligible.
“Each of the NASCAR Craftsman Wrenchman Award winners embody true leadership and dedication, and we congratulate them on this great achievement,” said Kris Malkoski, vice president and general manager for Craftsman. “These are the people who are often the first to arrive and last to leave the shop, and their commitment is outstanding.”
“Craftsman has done a great job creating an award honoring the everyday heroes of our sport,” said Jim O'Connell, vice president of corporate marketing for NASCAR. “The NASCAR Craftsman Wrenchman of the year honorees deserve to have a spotlight shined on their invaluable contributions.”
All NASCAR Craftsman Wrenchman Award winners will receive a cash prize of $14,000 and $10,000 in Craftsman gift cards. The winners also received a trophy from NASCAR and Craftsman representatives. The two-foot trophies were specially designed in the shape of a wrench for each winner.