NASCAR Mourns the Loss of Ned Jarrett

A Legendary Figure in NASCAR

NASCAR is grieving the loss of Ned Jarrett, a legendary driver and broadcaster, who passed away at 93. Jarrett, a Hall of Famer, died from natural causes in Newton, North Carolina. Recognized among NASCAR’s 50 Greatest Drivers in 1998, his impact on the sport is profound.

Racing Career

Jarrett participated in the Cup Series from 1953 to 1966. His racing journey began on the family farm and sawmill when Hickory Speedway opened. Jarrett remarked on his early days in racing, noting, “I played a little basketball and baseball in high school and thought I had some athletic ability. When they opened the speedway, I ran the first race they ever run there. I was hooked.”

He holds the top spot on the all-time wins list for Ford drivers, boasting 43 victories with Ford. The highest active driver, Joey Logano of Team Penske, has 35 of his 37 career wins with Ford, indicating Jarrett’s record is enduring.

Transition to Broadcasting

After retiring from racing, Jarrett pursued broadcasting. He began as a pit reporter with Motor Racing Network, transitioning to television with CBS and ESPN. A highlight of his broadcasting career was the 1993 Daytona 500, where he narrated a thrilling race featuring his son, Dale Jarrett, winning against Dale Earnhardt Sr. His emotional call remains memorable: “You know who I’m pulling for, it’s Dale Jarrett. Bring her to the inside, Dale, don’t let him get down there. He’s gonna make it! Dale Jarrett’s gonna win the Daytona 500! Alright!”

A Family Legacy

Jarrett’s family continued his legacy. His sons, Dale and Glenn, ventured into broadcasting post-racing. Jarrett’s wife of 67 years, Martha, passed away in 2023.