Eddie D'Hondt, Jeff Gordon's Spotter, Sees a Team on the Verge

By Mary Jo Buchanan - Speedway Media

While Eddie D'Hondt has done just about everything in his career, from racing modifieds in the Northeast to spotting for four-time champion Jeff Gordon, he is absolutely sure of one thing.

D'Hondt is firmly convinced that the No. 24 team is on the verge of taking the checkered flag and, once that occurs, that there will be other wins to follow.

"We've had some awful good races and we're so close and on the verge of busting out," D'Hondt said. "Working with Alan (Gustafson, crew chief) and getting to know Jeff (Gordon) more and more has been very rewarding."

"Once we finally have our day, it will all come together."

D'Hondt brings years of racing experience to the spotter's stand for team 24. He has worked for drivers the likes of Tony Stewart, Kenny Wallace and Bill Elliott, as well as owning his own Nationwide team with Tommy Baldwin and working for Yates Racing.

"Since I left Yates, I've been pretty much spotting for teams," D'Hondt said. "I've worked for Kyle Busch the last year and a half and now Jeff Gordon."

"So, that's my journey."

Because of his diversified background, on and off the track, D'Hondt feels that he brings multiple characteristics to the spotter's stand. But he credits his time behind the wheel as the key to effective spotting from the sky.

"I think having been a driver helps me understand a little bit of the driver's aspect of it and understanding the cars," D'Hondt said. "I stay on top of that as best I can."

"A lot of spotters were drivers at one point so it helps."

D'Hondt also acknowledges that his spotting style varies, depending both on the type of track and on the type of driver.

"It may vary for sure," D'Hondt said. "At a speedway race, the driver and...." To continue reading the full article, click here.

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