SouthernWorldwide.com – The NASCAR community is once again in mourning following the passing of legendary driver and broadcaster Ned Jarrett, who died at the age of 93.
Jarrett, a distinguished member of the NASCAR Hall of Fame, passed away peacefully of natural causes at his home in Newton, North Carolina. His career was marked by significant achievements, earning him a spot among NASCAR’s 50 Greatest Drivers in 1998.
His racing journey began in the Cup Series from 1953 to 1966. Jarrett’s passion for racing ignited while working on his family’s farm and sawmill, coinciding with the opening of Hickory Speedway.
“I played a little basketball and baseball in high school (and) thought I had some athletic ability,” Jarrett was quoted as saying by NASCAR. “When they opened the speedway, I ran the first race they ever run there. I was hooked.”
Jarrett’s legacy as a Ford driver remains unparalleled, holding the No. 1 spot on the all-time wins list for the manufacturer. He secured 43 victories driving Fords, a record that appears secure for the foreseeable future.
The current highest-ranking active Ford driver on this list is Joey Logano of Team Penske, who has achieved 35 of his 37 career wins with Ford. This highlights the enduring significance of Jarrett’s achievements.
Following his retirement from driving, Jarrett transitioned into a successful broadcasting career. He initially served as a pit reporter for Motor Racing Network (MRN) on radio before moving to television with prominent networks like CBS and ESPN.
One of the most memorable moments of his broadcasting career occurred during the 1993 Daytona 500. He had the distinct honor of calling a thrilling late-race battle between his son, NASCAR legend Dale Jarrett, and Dale Earnhardt Sr., a contest that ultimately saw his son emerge victorious.
“You know who I’m pulling for, it’s Dale Jarrett. Bring her to the inside, Dale, don’t let him get down there,” Jarrett exclaimed during the broadcast. “He’s gonna make it! Dale Jarrett’s gonna win the Daytona 500! Alright!”
Both of Ned Jarrett’s sons, Dale and Glenn, followed in his professional footsteps. After concluding their own racing careers, they both ventured into broadcasting, continuing the family’s deep connection to motorsports.
Ned Jarrett was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Martha, who passed away in 2023. His passing marks the end of an era for NASCAR, leaving behind a profound legacy as both a pioneering driver and a respected voice in the sport.
