Maine’s annual moose hunting permit lottery drew attention this year when Kyle Busch, the late NASCAR driver, was among the 3,700 applicants who received a permit for the upcoming October season.
A Posthumous Honor
Busch died in May at the age of 41 after complications from severe pneumonia and sepsis, but his connection to Maine remained strong through years of competition in the state.
The Oxford, Maine native had raced in the region in both 2011 and 2024, forging a local fan base that celebrated his achievements on and off the track.
Under Maine law, an unused moose permit may be transferred to a family member, meaning Busch’s selection could allow his relatives to pursue the hunt in his stead.
The lottery reflects a broader effort to manage the state’s growing moose population while offering a cherished tradition to longtime supporters, including those whose influence extends beyond the racing world.