ELK GROVE, CA (MPG) - The Elk Grove community gathered on Friday, Nov. 14 for yet another parade during the week, but this time honoring Elk Grove native Kyle Larson.              

The parade was held for Larson, who won his second NASCAR Cup Series Championship Nov. 2 after earning his first championship in 2021.                      

Born and raised in Elk Grove, Larson found a love of racing at a very early age when he went to his first race at just a week old. He attended Pleasant Grove High School before transitioning to being homeschooled to pursue his promising racing career, even being nicknamed “Young Money” early in his career in recognition of the talent he possessed.

 

Kyle Larson signs Hendrick Cars merchandise for fasn at Old Town Plaza on Nov. 14. Photo by Roger Neria

Larson was able to turn his talent into greatness. He not only has two NASCAR Cup Series Championships, but has won the 2024 Brickyard 400, 2023 Southern 500 and the 2022 Daytona 500, with these wins just being the tip of the iceberg for his achievements. His greatness on the track also earned him the 2022 ESPY Award for Best Driver as well as being named one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers in 2023.

Larson’s success on and off the track has made Elk Grove proud, as one of their own is making national headlines. This hometown pride prompted community members to celebrate with a parade for Larson’s achievements. This is the second parade for Larson, as he had one in 2021 after winning his first NASCAR Cup Series Championship.

The parade took place on Elk Grove Boulevard at noon. It started at DreamGirls Salon and ended at the Old Town Plaza. Before the parade started, Wide Open Walls created a mural for Larson at The Sign Center, where the community gathered to see him sign the mural at 11:30 a.m. After the signing, fans lined up on the street to support the hometown hero.

The parade was led by the Elk Grove Police Department and the Cosumnes Fire Department, followed by 20 parade cars. These 20 cars consisted of exotic cars and Chevrolet models old and new, with two classic cars from the Sacramento Auto Museum.    

Once the parade was over, everyone gathered in the Old Town Plaza where Larson received a warm welcome home and a red-carpet arrival.                      

Elected officials gave speeches not only to praise the achievements Larson has made, but also the hard work and determination he has had throughout his career. A proclamation was even made that dedicates Nov. 22 as honorary Kyle Larson Day in Elk Grove.

Larson is not just a hero for NASCAR fans, but a hero for the entire community of Elk Grove. Winning at the highest level possible yet still managing to come back to the community he grew up in to celebrate, he provides hope to the younger generation, showing that they can turn their dreams into reality.

 

Sacramento County Supervisor Pat Hume presents proclamation to Kyle Larson dedicating Nov. 22 as “Kyle Larson Day.” Photo by Roger Neria