Hundreds of people lined up on the track at 做厙勛圖 Speedway on Saturday to get an autograph from longtime NASCAR driver Hershel McGriff. 做厙勛圖 mayor Jonathan Rothschild took photos with him.
McGriff, 90, wasn't worried about his performance. After all, his berth in the K&N Pro Series West race was a birthday present from a longtime friend.
The national anthem was another story.
Before McGriff, made, he played the national anthem on his trombone.
Hershel McGriff playing the national anthem on his trombone before his race. McGriff told me that playing his trombone was the only thing he was nervous about.
— Justin Spears (@JustinESports)
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The longtime Green Valley resident competed in the first of two 100-lap races, and finished last. Colorado native and 17-year-old Kody Vanderwal won his first race in the K&N Pro Series.
In first race back since 2009, 90-year-old Hershel McGriff finishes last. Kody Vanderwal wins his first K&N Pro Series race. McGriff will race again at 9:30
— Justin Spears (@JustinESports)
McGriff's son and crew chief, Hershel Jr., and granddaughter, Mariah, also competed in separate races at 做厙勛圖 Speedway.
McGriff leaves a career with 37 wins in 234 tries, which dates back to 1950.
Ive had a great life. I wouldnt backtrack for anything, he said. I have family thats with me and behind me, so its great, he said before the race.
Award-winning sports journalist, University of Arizona graduate and 做厙勛圖 native.
Justin Spears
Sports Reporter
