Racing Icon Scott Bloomquist Dies in Tragic Plane Accident

Dirt racing legend Scott Bloomquist tragically died in a plane crash.

Drivers parade four abreast before the start of the World of Outlaws Late Model Series race Monday, July 29, 2018, at the Plymouth Dirt Track on the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds. Plymouth30 19 / Dave Kallmann / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel via Imagn Content Services, LLC

Scott Bloomquist, a legend in the world of dirt track racing, tragically died aged 60 in a small aircraft crash near his home in Mooresburg, Tennessee, early Friday morning. The incident was first reported by The Rogersville Review shortly after it occurred at approximately 7:15 a.m. EST.

Bloomquist's passing was confirmed by close friend and fellow racer Reid Millard, who was informed by Bloomquist’s mother, Georgie. Following the crash, local firefighters and law enforcement personnel were on the scene for several hours, dealing with the aftermath of the tragic event.

Scott Bloomquist leaves behind a significant legacy in the motorsports community. Known as one of the greatest Dirt Late Model drivers of all time, he was a Dirt Late Model Hall of Famer with over 600 race victories to his name. His last competition took place on August 3, at the USA Nationals at Cedar Lake Speedway in Wisconsin. Bloomquist's influence extended beyond the track, resonating deeply with fans across the nation due to his vibrant personality and resilience in the face of adversity.

Apart from his racing career, Bloomquist faced numerous personal challenges, including a leg injury sustained in a motorcycle crash, a battle with prostate cancer, a foot injury before the 2023 Dirt Track World Championship, and a shoulder surgery in anticipation of the 2024 racing season. He most recently was hospitalized following an adverse reaction to a horsefly bite.

Despite these obstacles, Bloomquist's passion extended beyond the racetrack. He was an avid aviator, sharing a love for flying vintage airplanes with his father, a hobby that he proudly showcased at the Road to Eldora event in 2022.

Bloomquist was driven by his unwavering ambition to return to victory lane at major Dirt Late Model racing competitions. His death marks a significant loss not only to his family—including his daughter Ariel, his parents, and a sister—but also to the entire motorsports community, which mourns the loss of a true icon.

Our thoughts are with Bloomquist's family and friends during this time.