Cale Yarborough, an iconic NASCAR driver and proud South Carolina native, passed away on Sunday at the age of 84.
According to his family, Yarborough had been dealing with a rare genetic disorder and had been in poor health for the past few years.
During his NASCAR career, he achieved a remarkable feat of winning 83 races, a record that places him in a tie for sixth place all-time with Jimmie Johnson. Recognizing his incredible achievements, he was rightfully inducted into the sport’s prestigious Hall of Fame in January 2012. A true trailblazer, he became the first driver to secure three consecutive Cup Series championships from 1976 to 1978.
Yarborough achieved victory in the Daytona 500 on four occasions, placing him second to Richard Petty’s record of seven wins. In recognition of his remarkable talent, he was included in NASCAR’s prestigious list of the 50 greatest drivers in 1998, as well as the sport’s 75 top drivers earlier this year to commemorate NASCAR’s 75th anniversary.
“Cale Yarborough, according to NASCAR chairman and CEO Jim France, was an exceptional competitor who exemplified toughness like no other in the sport. His remarkable combination of talent, perseverance, and unwavering determination set him apart from his fellow racers, leaving an indelible mark in both NASCAR history and the hearts of fans. Cale’s profound respect and admiration were earned not only from his competitors but also from the spectators. Whether he was maneuvering a stock car or operating a tractor, he displayed equal ease and expertise. The France family and NASCAR extend their deepest condolences to the loved ones of Cale Yarborough during this difficult time.”
The news of Yarborough’s death began to spread, and tributes from iconic figures like Richard Petty, Dale Earnhardt Jr., and Jimmie Johnson started pouring in.
Dale Earnhardt Jr expressed his sorrow on social media, as he shared the news of Cale’s unfortunate demise. In a heartfelt message on X (formerly known as Twitter), Earnhardt Jr acknowledged Cale’s legendary status as a driver. However, he also emphasized the impact Cale had off the track, highlighting his captivating personality, determination, and confidence that drew fans from all corners of the globe to both him and NASCAR. Earnhardt Jr further credited Cale for his significant contributions to the sport, stating that his presence undeniably enhanced it. Lastly, he offered his condolences to Cale’s family, recognizing the immense loss they must be experiencing.
Yarborough was renowned for his indomitable spirit, not just in the realm of racing. Prior to his racing career, he showcased his toughness as a two-time Golden Gloves championship boxer and as a football player who earned a scholarship to play at Clemson University. Despite having the opportunity to pursue a career in football, he ultimately decided to devote himself to the world of racing. Additionally, there were anecdotes circulating about Yarborough’s daring encounters, such as wrestling alligators and bears, as highlighted in a 1978 Sports Illustrated article about him.
Yarborough had a special affection for Darlington Raceway, often speaking of it with reverence and emphasizing its significance in his racing career. He reminisced about his first race at the track, which took place in the 1957 Southern 500, and proudly mentioned his five victories at Darlington.
Yarborough’s childhood was spent just a few miles away from the track in the quaint town of Sardis, located near Timmonsville. He fondly recalls the time when he sneaked into a race at Darlington by crawling under the fence. This track holds a special place in his heart as it was here that he made his stock car debut back in 1957.
In the 1965 Darlington race, he soared over the fence after colliding with Sam McQuagg’s car in the Southern 500. Yarborough was renowned for his tenacity and determination throughout his racing tenure, and as a result of the incident, his car ended up in the parking lot adjacent to a telephone pole outside the track.
Feeling tired of waiting for an ambulance, he decided to take matters into his own hands and began walking back up to the track.
In 2015, Yarborough shared with The State that despite his car never making contact with the guard rail, it was completely destroyed. He recounted how he waited for the ambulance, uncertain of when it would arrive. Frustrated by the delay, he decided to walk back up the hill and onto the track.
“I have experienced being on both sides of the fence, whether it’s being unsure or making a firm decision. I’ve even gone as far as challenging the boundaries and pushing against what’s expected.”
During the 1979 Daytona 500, Yarborough became famous for engaging in a highly publicized on-track altercation with Donnie Allison. The incident unfolded when both drivers started colliding with each other during the final lap of the race, resulting in a dramatic showdown that was captured on live television.
The Associated Press survey with veteran contributors named the 1979 Daytona 500 as the most memorable moment in the sport, propelling NASCAR from a regional sport to a national conversation.
Yarborough later exclaimed that it was the best thing that ever happened for NASCAR.
Yarborough had an impressive racing career, with his last full season taking place in 1980 where he emerged victorious in six races. Following that, he participated in a limited schedule for the next nine years, ultimately concluding his driving career in 1989 at Atlanta Motor Speedway. However, Yarborough’s involvement in the sport did not end there, as he transitioned into a car owner role until 2000.
Yarborough took on different business ventures and established the Cale Yarborough Honda dealership in Florence.
Yarborough’s wife, Betty Jo, and his daughters Julie, Kelley, and B.J., are the ones who continue to cherish his memory.
Cale Yarborough passed away to his eternal home in Heaven early this morning at McLeod Hospice House in Florence with his loving family by his side. The family sends their thanks for all the support and love from family, friends, and fans.
— Johnny Dickson (@dickson_johnny) December 31, 2023
NASCAR Hall of Famer Cale Yarborough, who won three consecutive Cup championships from 1976-78 and is tied for sixth all-time with 83 career wins, has died at age 84. RIP to one of the sport's greatest drivers.
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) December 31, 2023
The NASCAR family lost another legend today. Whenever you heard the name Cale Yarborough, you immediately thought “tough” and “competitor”. During his era he was a threat to win every week and a true NASCAR Hall of Famer in every sense of the title. RIP, Cale and 🙏 for your… https://t.co/inlWQW7uKO
— Marcus Smith (@MarcusSMI) December 31, 2023
10 Cale Yarborough racing moments to remember
In January 2012, Yarborough joined the NASCAR Hall of Fame, as reported by Bob Spear in The State.
On September 2, 1957, at the young age of 17, I ventured into the world of racing. It was a thrilling experience that marked the beginning of my journey in this exhilarating sport.
NASCAR rules dictated that drivers had to be 21 years old in order to compete. However, Yarborough managed to make his debut on the big circuit at the age of 17 through a clever trickery. In the Southern 500 at Darlington, he had been expelled from the track after his forged birth certificate was uncovered. Undeterred, Yarborough hid on the floorboard and took over the wheel from Bobby Weatherly in order to qualify for the race.
In the midst of the pre-race chaos, officials once again attempted to remove him from the track, but the determined duo managed to switch positions once more. Yarborough took the wheel and drove an impressive 27 laps before their clever deception was discovered. Unfortunately, their efforts ultimately resulted in a 42nd place finish, earning them a modest sum of $100.
On August 9, 1964, Cale was given a chance to showcase his skills and abilities.
Having a family to support and limited racing income, Yarborough made the decision to step away from racing and focus on his logging business. However, his plans took an unexpected turn when Holman-Moody, one of the top racing operations at the time, reached out and presented him with an opportunity to prove himself.
Yarborough secured the fifth position during the qualifying round at Asheville-Weaverville Speedway. Despite taking the lead, his chances were hampered when debris caused a hole in his radiator. Despite finishing in the 20th position, his remarkable performance earned him the opportunity to continue racing, postponing his retirement plans for over two decades.
On June 27, 1965, he achieved his first victory.
In his early career, Yarborough showcased his racing prowess in the Pee Dee bullrings. However, it was in Valdosta, Georgia, where he secured his first triumphant victory at the highest level of stock-car racing. Driving a 1964 Ford, Yarborough dominated the 100-mile race on a one-half mile track, leaving behind a field that included esteemed two-time champions, Buck Baker and Hall-of-Famer Ned Jarrett, with a comfortable three-lap lead.
On September 6, 1965, a remarkable event took place – a car actually took flight. This incident marked a significant milestone in the world of transportation and technology. The feat was achieved by a team of engineers and innovators who had dared to dream of a future where cars could defy gravity. This groundbreaking moment showcased the limitless potential of human ingenuity and paved the way for further advancements in the field of aerial transportation. It was a day that will forever be etched in history as the day when a car soared through the skies, defying all expectations and capturing the imagination of people around the world.
Yarborough didn’t end up in Victory Lane after the Southern 500. Instead, he finished the race in the parking lot. Yes, you read that right.
In the past, the retaining wall was not very effective as it only consisted of highway-type guard rails, which offered minimal protection. However, during a race against Sam McQuagg, Yarborough’s Ford miraculously took flight and soared over the hood of McQuagg’s car, eventually landing several stories below in the parking lot. Despite the incredible nature of the accident, Yarborough managed to walk away unharmed.
“I felt like an astronaut,” he exclaimed later on.
On September 2, 1968, a historic moment unfolded in the world of racing as the first Southern 500 win was achieved.
In a thrilling showdown, Yarborough emerged triumphant, defeating his long-standing rival David Pearson and securing his most cherished victory – the first of his five Southern 500s.
He would often say, “I wouldn’t trade any of the others for this one.”
There were three reasons why he cherished that victory.
Darlington has always been his “home” track, and his love for racing was sparked when he snuck under the fence to watch the 1951 Southern 500 at the young age of 11. For him, the Southern 500 holds a special place as the ultimate race.
Yarborough expressed his desire to secure a victory on the original track, prompting officials to make improvements to enhance the racing experience. Consequently, the track was reworked after the race.
On March 7, 1973, a dominant performance took place on the field.
Yarborough showcased an extraordinary display of dominance in the Southeastern 500 at Bristol Raceway, surpassing the achievements of only a handful of drivers. He effortlessly led every single lap of the race, leaving his competitors in the dust. In an astonishing feat, Yarborough managed to lap the entire field within the first 100 laps and showed no signs of relenting throughout the entirety of the race.
He finished with a two-lap lead over Richard Petty and a comfortable five-lap advantage over third-place finisher Bobby Allison.
On October 22, 1978, the third season championship took place.
Yarborough secured his third consecutive championship at the American 500 in Rockingham, leading an impressive 376 out of 492 laps from the pole position. This remarkable victory marked his 28th win in just 90 starts.
According to car owner Junior Johnson, Cale Yarborough’s dominance in the sport can be attributed to his exceptional driving skills. Johnson believes that Yarborough is the best driver the sport has ever witnessed, and that his presence behind the wheel adds an additional 20 horsepower to the car.
On February 18, 1979, the world witnessed an exhilarating display of both racing and brawling.
In the highly anticipated Daytona 500, NASCAR aimed for an exceptional race with full television coverage. And they got exactly that, and then some. The Southeast was hit by a snowstorm, forcing people to stay indoors and tune in to their televisions. As the race reached its climax, Donnie Allison and Yarborough engaged in a fierce battle for the checkered flag on the final lap.
Yarborough, who was trailing, had prepared for an aerodynamic “slingshot” move, expecting Allison to be helpless in countering it. However, Allison surprised him by swerving to block the maneuver, resulting in a wreck that involved both cars. As a result, Richard Petty took advantage of the situation and coasted to an unexpected victory. But the drama didn’t end there. Both drivers emerged from their cars, and to everyone’s surprise, Bobby Allison joined them. What ensued was a chaotic and intense free-for-all.
The cameras captured all the action, and the wreck and brawl undoubtedly played a significant role in etching racing into the nation’s sports consciousness.
According to Yarborough, the NASCAR’s biggest achievement ever occurred.
On May 6, 1984, he participated in what would be one of his most thrilling races.
In the 1984 Winston 500 at Talladega, Yarborough participated in what is considered to be his most exhilarating race. During that time, there were no restrictor plates, allowing for incredible speeds on the track. In fact, eight drivers managed to qualify faster than 200 mph. Yarborough, showcasing his exceptional skills, secured the pole position with a remarkable speed of 202.662 mph. Throughout the race, the field maintained an average speed of over 193 mph for the first 39 laps. Despite facing four cautions, Yarborough emerged victorious, crossing the finish line with an impressive average speed of 172.988 mph.
In the late stages of the race, Yarborough decided to slow down in order to conserve gas. However, on the final lap, he made a stunning move, overtaking Harry Gant on the backstretch. Yarborough managed to cross the finish line 0.33 seconds ahead, marking the 75th lead change of the day.
On September 1, 1985, there was an almost victory in winning $1 million.
At the Southern 500 in Darlington, the focus was once again on Bill Elliott, as he aimed to compete for the prestigious “Winston Million.” This promotional event offered an unprecedented $1 million prize to any driver who could emerge victorious in three of NASCAR’s illustrious “Big Four” races. The staggering amount of money at stake was truly remarkable for that era.
Elliott arrived at Darlington Speedway with victories under his belt from Daytona and Talladega. As the race neared its end, the only obstacle in his path was Cale Yarborough. On lap 323, Yarborough forcefully took over the lead, but soon after, a puff of smoke appeared from his car. It seemed like Elliott would have a clear path to victory, but the smoke signaled the loss of power steering, and Yarborough managed to get back on the track.
“It felt like trying to steer a freight train,” Yarborough admitted later, as he recounted the intense battle with Elliott in the closing stages of the race. Despite giving it his all and closing the gap to just a few car lengths, Yarborough fell agonizingly short by a mere six-tenths of a second.
REST IN PEACE: Florence County native, NASCAR legend Cale Yarborough dies at 84 https://t.co/cZPvBSXNyv pic.twitter.com/XCWD48f0pn
— WBTW News13 (@WBTWNews13) December 31, 2023
Many would say that Cale Yarborough was the most tenacious stock car driver who ever lived. No one drove a car any harder. The perfect model of a race car driver: fast, tough, resilient, with a will and bravery to carry a car to its limit
RIP Cale, a great man and no finer racer pic.twitter.com/DlHgG94QfZ
— nascarman (@nascarman_rr) December 31, 2023
The great Cale Yarborough has passed; one of the all-time greats in NASCAR history. There was tough, and then there was Cale Yarborough tough. #RIPRacer pic.twitter.com/6TSE4NkcIQ
— Dave Moody (@DGodfatherMoody) December 31, 2023
Cale Yarborough was as tough as they get. His hard-charging, fearless driving style put him in a class of his own. @TooToughToTame lifts his family & friends up in prayer. Rest easy Cale. We will miss you dearly. pic.twitter.com/2X1pg4jqOq
— Kerry Tharp (@Kerry_Tharp) December 31, 2023
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