Rick Houston, a legend in NASCAR journalism, announced through his podcast’s social media handle that he has been diagnosed with cancer.

Houston revealed that he was diagnosed on Thursday. While most would have been more reserved about it, the author of NASCAR’s Greatest Race: 1992 Hooters 500 chose to break the news of his health to the NASCAR world that very day. 

In the post made through The Scene Vault Podcast on X, Houston wrote, “I was told Thursday that I have pancreatic cancer that appears to have metastasized to my liver."

Houston’s announcement was met with overwhelming support from fans as they backed the veteran journalist through comments on the X post. One fan's comment shared the sentiment of the impact that Houston had and wrote: 

“Man you got this! Keep digging, this 21 year old loves and appreciates the work you do to teach about the old days so much and you seem like such a great, fun guy. I’ll be thinking about you.”

Houston added in the tweet, "I am not in any pain. I am not scared. I don’t know what tomorrow holds, but I know Who holds tomorrow.”

Houston’s podcast was a continuation of the work he did while being the editor of the Busch Series Cup Scene, a go-to read amongst drivers. He created one of the largest archives of stories in NASCAR that may have otherwise been forgotten with time. 

Houston’s message also contained a note about the podcast: “Producing the podcast has been one of the true joys of my professional life. I don’t plan on going anywhere any time soon, and as long as I’m still around, it will be as well.”

The note ended with Houston writing, “With all that being said ... bring it on.” And fans have not only poured in with support but also lauded his bravery. 

Fans put in heartfelt support for Houston

Houston began reporting on NASCAR in 1991 and has written 9 books on the sport. Some of the books have now become go-to references for those who are serious about NASCAR history. 

Through his books, NASCAR reporting, and podcast, Houston became a figure loved by NASCAR fans. From messages of encouragement to those of support and well wishes, Houston received a show of great affection from fans. 

One fan wrote, “We appreciate your positivity, prayers for your family through the journey. Thankful for your confidence and the work you have done.”

Another lauded Houston by writing, “Hope to be as strong as you are one day. Praying for you Rick 🙏🏻”

Houston also serves as the deacon of his local church and the prayers too came in, “🙏 thinking of you.”

Another fan wrote, “Sending you well wishes. Your body of work is very much appreciated by the community and is a very important part of the sports history. We are lucky to have you. Take care.”

As the NASCAR community continues to send messages to Houston, we will keep bringing updates on his condition. 

Read more at Daytona Racing Digest.

Written by

Debrup Chaudhuri

Edited by

Suyashdeep Sason