Mike Skinner
Mike Skinner is an American former professional stock car racing driver and team owner, known primarily for winning the 1995 NASCAR SuperTruck Series Championship and competing in the NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR Xfinity Series. He was the inaugural champion of the Truck Series and achieved significant success driving for Richard Childress Racing.
Mike Skinner began his professional racing career in the NASCAR Cup Series in 1986. His first full-time season in the NASCAR SuperTruck Series was in 1995, where he won the inaugural series championship with eight victories and sixteen top-ten finishes. Skinner also competed in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, achieving a notable victory in 1999 at the Auto Club Speedway. During his career, Skinner secured 28 wins in the Truck Series and two in the Xfinity Series. He earned the NASCAR Cup Series Rookie of the Year award in 1997 while driving for Richard Childress Racing. Skinner also achieved four pole positions in the Cup Series, further demonstrating his skill as a driver.
One of the most significant aspects of Mike Skinner’s career was his collaborations with prominent figures in the racing industry. He worked closely with Richard Childress, team owner of Richard Childress Racing, which was instrumental in his NASCAR success. Skinner also collaborated with fellow driver Dale Earnhardt Sr., who provided mentorship and support during his early years at RCR. Additionally, Skinner teamed up with crew chiefs Larry McReynolds and Kevin Hamlin. Skinner’s partnership with team owners Bill Davis and Bob Germain further extended his impact in the Truck Series. Skinner also raced alongside drivers such as Tony Stewart and Jeff Gordon.