Cale Yarborough, a NASCAR Hall of Famer who was the sport’s first driver to win three consecutive series championships (1976-78), died today at age 84.
“This is a post that I wish I didn’t have to do but the family of Cale Yarborough would like to inform everyone that Cale 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 Facebook page for the official Cale Yarborough Fan Group posted this morning. “The family sends their thanks for all the support and love from family, friends, and fans.”
“Cale Yarborough was one of the toughest competitors NASCAR has ever seen. His combination of talent, grit and determination separated Cale from his peers, both on the track and in the record book. He was respected and admired by competitors and fans alike and was as comfortable behind the wheel of a tractor as he was behind the wheel of a stock car. On behalf of the France family and NASCAR, I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Cale Yarborough.”
- Jim France, NASCAR Chairman and CEO
