The year 2000 was a big year of experience for Ricky.
He competed races in the WINSTON Racing Late Model series along with the NASCAR Busch & Craftsman Truck Series.

On July 7, 2000 Kenny Irwin Jr would tragically pass away in an accident at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Ricky was offered an opportunity to run the Felix Sabates car but chose to focus on his orgional plans of 2000 with gaining more experience before stepping into a Cup car.

On May 25th, Ricky pulled off an impressive 5th place finish at Nashville after starting 34th.