Josh Williams reflects Martinsville, NASCAR Cup Series wins

Josh Williams had an incredible month that couldn’t get any better. As the spotter for NASCAR Cup Series driver Ryan Blaney, Williams witnessed the two most significant wins of his career. On October 29, Blaney secured his first victory at Martinsville Speedway, marking significant milestones for both the driver and the spotter. A week later, Blaney finished second at Phoenix Raceway, ultimately sealing both his and William’s first title in NASCAR’s highest series along with three other racers.

“I don’t think it gets much better,” Williams expressed on his recent achievements. “We’re pretty much peaking right now.”

Williams grew up in Ridgeway and has been a motorsports enthusiast his entire life, with a fondness for races at Martinsville Speedway. His excitement soared when Blaney clinched a victory at his home track, earning a spot at the championship. Reflecting on their win and championship title, Williams said, “There can’t be a better seven days in motorsports for me, I don’t think. It’s just a really cool thing for me, personally, winning at Martinsville, and then turning it around and capping it off with a championship.”

Since Blaney’s ascent to the Cup Series in 2015, Williams had been spotting for him and contributed to Blaney’s massive 10 victories and seven playoff appearances. Despite facing a roller coaster season with ups and downs, the determined pair prevailed, transitioning their season at the tail end to achieve exceptional results. “It was kind of a good thing to make everybody put their nose down and work so we were peaking at the end of the season there and have a run to the championship,” Williams added.

Both final races were not easy. At Martinsville, Blaney had to endure challenges to secure the lead and race to victory against potential disruptions. A similar scenario unfolded at Phoenix, encompassing heightened pressure and anxiety for Williams. However, the sweet taste of victory overshadowed his initial nervousness and uncertainty on their way to clinching the championship title. Recalling his victory, Williams felt immense satisfaction and reflected on his journey to reach that momentous high. “To finally get to the level of racing for a championship and being lucky enough to win it, it’s just a lot of satisfaction to where I’ve come from in my professional career and finally making it to that top level.”

Team Penske has been taking orders for those who want a Grandfather Clock to commemorate their victory at Martinsville, with Williams in awe of the unique trophy. Looking ahead, Williams plans to celebrate his success with a cruise trip in December, musing on everything he has achieved in a well-deserved break from a triumphant season.