Throwing it back to Speedweeks 1990 at Daytona — a truly fascinating chapter in NASCAR history involving Greg Sacks, better known to some fans as the real-life inspiration behind Days of Thunder’s Cole Trickle.
Sacks piloted the No. 46 City Chevrolet Monte Carlo in the Goody’s 300, the Busch Grand National (now Xfinity) Series opener. The car itself was steeped in heritage — an Aero Coupe built by none other than Robert Gee, the grandfather of Dale Earnhardt Jr. In a competitive field, Sacks held his own, finishing an impressive third behind Dale Earnhardt and Harry Gant. Notably, some of the final scenes of Days of Thunder were filmed immediately after this very race, adding a cinematic footnote to the moment.
But that wasn’t all. Hendrick Motorsports also fielded the No. 46 City Chevrolet Lumina for the prestigious Busch Clash, thanks to a wildcard entry Sacks earned during the ’89 Winston Cup Awards. NASCAR’s format at the time gave this spot to one of the fastest second-round qualifiers from the prior season. With Darrell Waltrip’s Tide pit crew and Jeff Hammond calling the shots, Sacks started from the outside pole, led four laps, and finished a strong second behind teammate Ken Schrader.
These races were more than just stats — they were a blend of Hollywood storytelling, NASCAR legacy, and the rise of a driver whose real-life story helped fuel a movie legend. A perfect storm of motorsport, media, and memory.
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