The Official Website of Tia Norfleet

The History of #34

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Working so hard to win, Scott finally got the chance in 1963 at the Jacksonville Speedway. This would not be without controversy. Taking care of his equipment, Scott was able to lap the entire field twice after taking the lead. However, when it came time for the NASCAR official to wave the checkered flag, nothing happened. For two laps, Scott drove around waiting for the flag, only to have it waved for another driver by the name of Buck Baker – who was running second, two laps down. Baker celebrated in victory lane, kissed the trophy queen and took home the hardware as Scott looked on in total disgust. Hours after the blatant error and Baker’s celebration, NASCAR declared Wendell Scott the official winner. He received the $1,000 check for first place, but not the trophy. In fact, 47 years after the win, Scott’s family was presented the trophy that their late father was never able to see.

Racing for 13 seasons, Scott’s career came to an end, following a devastating wreck at the legendary Talladega Superspeedway in 1973. After selling off all that he owned and putting himself in major debt to purchase a brand new Mercury racer, Scott now faced career-threatening injuries and had a race car that was demolished to pieces. Scott went back to his hometown of Danville, Virginia, but never gave up his passion and dream. In 1990, the heroic pioneer passed away at the age of 69.