Jason Hathaway retires from full-time NASCAR Pinty's Series competition

Jason Hathaway and his No. 3 NASCAR Pinty’s Series team hit the track for the last time last weekend at Kawartha Speedway, a race he won. He is one of only two drivers (DJ Kennington being the other) to have competed in every NASCAR Canadian Tire/Pinty's Series race since NASCAR took over in 2007. Hathaway published a press release in which he explained his decision.

“I have had a great career and I am extremely proud of my accomplishments and our team’s accomplishments on the track,” said Hathaway. “Narrowly missing the title several times and eight NASCAR wins are some of my cherished accomplishments. I think my greatest and most humbling achievement was being honoured as the 2015 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series’ Most Popular Driver.

“We have accomplished so much as a team and as a racing family. We have travelled across the country, met some great people and fans along the way and have built some truly awesome friendships with NASCAR officials and fellow competitors. The team we have built is a tight knit group that truly enjoy being around each other and are a part of each other’s family.

“My wife Jamie and I feel that 2017 is a great time to pursue some other projects we have on the go and want to spend more time with our children. We have enjoyed having them with us trackside and nothing had brought me more joy in all of my accomplishments than to see the love that they have been shown by our racing family in the shop and at the track. The coolest memories of my racing career will always be the snapshots of our kids growing up and revelling in watching Dad “do his job” on the race track each week. I love being their hero.

“My family has always been very supportive of my career and have stood by me with all of the ups and downs that racing brings. I thank them from the bottom of my heart. Thanks to all of the crew members that I have worked with over my years in racing. To my shop and crew guys, Don, Gary, Graham, JT, Phil, Jeff, Rich and Grunt; thank you to you and your families for all of the dedication you have given me. The average person doesn’t understand the time that is involved in this sport and I appreciate the commitment you have given this Team and myself.

“Thank you to all of my sponsors over the past 12 seasons. I am especially thankful for our team owner Ed Hakonson for all of his time and support in allowing me to peruse the sport I love so much.”