Chase Elliott secured a long-awaited victory at the EchoPark Speedway in Atlanta, marking a special milestone in his 2025 season while honoring 11-year-old pediatric cancer patient Rhealynn Mills. The No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet, adorned with a design created by Mills, carried Elliott to a triumphant finish that brought joy to both the driver and his young admirer.
The Atlanta win held deep significance for Elliott, who had struggled on his home track in recent years, making this victory especially satisfying. As the celebration unfolded, Mills and her family joined Elliott and the Hendrick Motorsports team in victory lane, creating a memorable moment for all involved.
Sharing Joy Beyond the Track: Elliott’s Bond with Mills and Her Family
Following his win, Elliott spoke openly about the experience on Sirius XM NASCAR, reflecting on the connection formed throughout the day. He shared,
She (Rhealynn Mills) was awesome. And really, the whole Mills family in general. They were just really good, genuine, down-to-earth folks. And, you know, enjoyed hanging out with them throughout the day.
—Chase Elliott
Initially shy, Mills grew more comfortable as the day went on. Elliott described the transformation, saying,
It was fun to kind of watch Rhealynn open up, because she was pretty shy some Saturday morning, but by Saturday night, she was definitely a part of the team. That’s what it’s all about, you know, is hopefully giving her an experience that she’ll remember for the rest of her life. Because she definitely gave us one,
—Chase Elliott
Elliott also highlighted the emotional depth of the occasion with a social media post, emphasizing the ongoing fight against pediatric cancer:
Moving pictures tell the story best, but you just might tear up. Let’s keep fighting for Rhealynn and keep the wins coming! #Desi9nToDrive
9 days left to join the fight – show your support at: https://t.co/6bxZOQRaix
—Chase Elliott
The Story Behind the Design: Desi9n to Drive’s Ninth Year
The special paint scheme on Elliott’s car was part of the Desi9n to Drive program, which began in 2017, partnering with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, NAPA, and Hendrick Motorsports. This initiative invites fans, particularly young patients, to design liveries that Elliott races with, raising awareness and funds for pediatric cancer research.
This year’s collaboration with Rhealynn Mills marked the program’s ninth anniversary, and the driver expressed gratitude for the continued partnership. Elliott noted,
It was an amazing way to celebrate the ninth year of ‘Desi9n to Drive.’ There’s still a handful of days left to get in on some of the items that we’re going to be getting rid of with my suit and all that stuff she designed, desi9ntodrive.org.
—Chase Elliott
Along with the car’s paint job, Mills also designed Elliott’s firesuit and helmet, all of which were showcased during the Atlanta race weekend, underscoring the personal connection between the driver and the young artist.
Supporting a Worthy Cause Through Auction and Awareness
Elliott confirmed that proceeds from the auction of race-worn items related to the Atlanta victory will fully benefit Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, supporting the fight against pediatric cancer. He affirmed,
Obviously, everything’s going to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. And, you know, all the great work that they did,
—Chase Elliott
He added,
They’re an impressive group of hospitals, and Mills is a testament to that.
—Chase Elliott
The auction allows fans and collectors to own memorabilia such as the victory suit and helmet while contributing to a meaningful cause. With just days remaining for bidding, enthusiasm remains strong, creating a powerful link between NASCAR’s competitive spirit and philanthropy.
The Heartbeat of Atlanta’s Race and Beyond
Chase Elliott’s triumph at EchoPark Speedway was not only a personal breakthrough but also a victory that brought broader awareness to pediatric cancer through his collaboration with Rhealynn Mills. This race transformed into a celebration of resilience, creativity, and community support.
As the Desi9n to Drive program continues, the momentum from Elliott’s win and the ongoing auction will likely inspire more engagement and funds for research. For Elliott, this victory represents much more than a race—it is an opportunity to shape lives beyond the track, driven by hope and unity with his fans and those affected by childhood illness.