Back in April 2009, Joe Denette of Fredericksburg, Virginia was leading a regular life. He worked for a living in the construction industry and enjoyed watching NASCAR races on the weekends. His life changed forever when his Quick Pick ticket matched all six numbers in the May 1 Mega Millions drawing, winning a $75.6 million share of the jackpot.
So what does a hard-working, lifelong Bill Elliot fan who wins life-changing money do with his new fortune?
He buys his own racing team.
Today, Denette is the owner of Joe Denette Motorsports, a truck racing team that includes popular Camping World Truck Series driver Ron Hornaday (who won the NCEL 200 in 2007 and 2009) and newcomer Max Gresham.
We caught up with Joe just hours prior to last Friday’s NCEL 200 race.
“I was a diehard fan and I always enjoyed watching drivers and meeting them,” Denette said. “So it’s amazing to be able to say I am an owner. Hopefully someday I’ll be a championship owner.”
Denette said the startup costs were around $3 million. So how does one go about buying their own racing team?
“It was easier than you think,” Denette said. “I met Hermie Sadler (who would later manage the operation) and he introduced me to a few people, then one thing lead to another. All I had to do was come up with the money.”
As he sat in the lounge near the number 9 garage at Charlotte Motor Speedway, sporting a light shirt and blue jeans, we asked the lucky man what winning a jackpot means to him in everyday life.
“I don’t ever have to work again,” he said. “I can live the American dream, enjoy life. I’ve helped out my family and made sure they are taken care of. I’m still really down to earth, same as I’ve always been. I even still play the lottery when it gets up there over $40 million. Heck, I might even buy a ticket tonight.”
Joe has dedicated a portion of his winnings to different charities. Soon after the news of his win hit the news, he realized he needed to consider his giving efforts wisely.
“You can’t give something to everybody,” Denette said. “It’s hard sometimes. You really have to take care of your own and give through the good channels. I donate to Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Victory Junction as well as a number of racing foundations that go towards things like autism research.”
When the interview came to a close, we asked Denette if he had any advice for lottery players still looking for a big win.
“You can’t win if you don’t play,” he replied. “It only takes one set of numbers to win. It’s really worth it. People do win. I’m living proof of that. And as long as you learn you can’t just give it away or blow all the money, you can live a comfortable life.”
We wish Joe Denette the best of luck in his present and any future racing endeavors.
"This has been an incredible experience," he said. “I’m more than a fan these days. I want to go right to the top.”
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