This Was Home”: Darlington Raceway Honors Late NASCAR Legend Cale Yarborough Ahead of Race**
DARLINGTON, S.C. (WMBF) – Darlington Raceway is paying tribute to NASCAR legend Cale Yarborough with a special display during the race weekend. On Tuesday, the family of Yarborough and former NASCAR crew chief Jeff Hammond unveiled the iconic 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass No. 11 that Yarborough drove to victory in the 1978 Southern 500.
The car, a symbol of one of Yarborough’s 83 career victories, will be featured prominently at Darlington Raceway. Following its initial display at the Darlington Raceway Stock Car Museum, it will move to the Fan Zone, where NASCAR Hall of Famer Dale Jarrett will drive it in a ceremonial lap before the main race on Sunday.
Jeff Hammond, who spoke highly of Yarborough, reflected on the special connection between the driver and Darlington Raceway. “There are certain race tracks and Darlington definitely is the one on his list, I’m sure, that maybe if he was being honest, was a little ahead of Daytona,” Hammond said.
Yarborough’s daughter, Julie Yarborough, expressed her gratitude for the tribute, noting the significance of the event for her family. “We’re so thankful that this day has come and this will be the day we finally say, ‘We did it, we’ve put him to sleep, we’ve put him to bed, he’s in heaven and watching over us and he’s very proud,’” Julie Yarborough said.
The commemorative activities reflect the deep respect and affection the racing community holds for Yarborough, underscoring the special bond he had with Darlington Raceway.
