He has two Daytona 500 trophies, a mediocre golf game and now – a ponytail?
Michael Waltrip revealed his new “quarantine” hairstyle during the latest #DiamondLIVE @Home event on Tuesday, April 28, 2020. The NASCAR racing legend joined Diamond Resorts CEO Mike Flaskey on Instagram Live to answer questions about his current hobbies and past life.
He shared stories from his racing days, shed a few tears while talking about his mentor, Dale Earnhardt Sr., and even told a few jokes – like how he once developed a single abdominal muscle after competing in ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars.” (Waltrip made it to week 8 before being “kicked off.”)
Speaking from his home in North Carolina, Waltrip said he has been spending his time at home playing golf and working on his skills in hopes of beating Larry the Cable Guy at the next Diamond Resorts Tournament of Champions. Waltrip finished last in the 2020 celebrity division, one point behind Larry the Cable Guy.
While answering questions from fans, Waltrip shared the emotional story behind his win at the 2001 Daytona 500, when he finally broke his 462-race losing streak, only to find out Dale Earnhardt Sr. was killed in a crash at the same moment. Waltrip’s book on the story, “In the Blink of an Eye,” spent 11 weeks on the New York Times best seller list in 2011 and was recently made into a documentary titled, “Blink of an Eye.” (You can find details on how to purchase or stream the documentary at BlinkofanEyeFilm.com.)
During these unprecedented times, Diamond Resorts is committed to sharing positive experiences with members, owners and guests through the #DiamondLIVE @ Home series. The lineup is packed with virtual concerts and appearances by country music favorites and sports stars, including Easton Corbin, Brittany Lincicome, Colt Ford and Tyler Farr. The full calendar of events is available here.
Missed Waltrip’s Q&A event? No worries, click the video below to view it on the Diamond Resorts Instagram page.