Dale Jarrett's Memories

Dale Jarrett is the consumate gentleman, considerate of all.

2008-05-14T13:13:00.003-04:00

In February 1998 my father Clifton Turbyfill celebrated his 88th birthday. Dale Jarrettt (#88) was in Hickory for a Ford promotion at Armstrong Ford, and celebrated with Dad, as shown in the photo.

Dale observed that he just drove 88, but dad was really 88. Dad was very proud, as when he worked at Hickory Mfg. Co, he had purchased lumber from Dale's grandfather, father and even his brother Glenn.

In the background of this photo is Dale's son Jason.

Dad passed away in June '04 at the age of 94.

I am in town (from KY) helping Mother observe her 96th birthday, as well as Mother's day.

Basil Turbyfill
Kentucky

Hickory High School 1954
NC State 1958
Harvard Graduate School of Business 1963
Retired 2000

Thanks Dale for the Great Ride

2008-05-14T12:43:00.004-04:00

I have followed Dale's career very close and have also had the privilege of knowing him personally for over 20 years and I can assure you he is not only a true champion on the track but a true champion off the track as well. He has been a great ambassador to his sport, peers, sponsors, and fans. Dale, we will miss seeing you behind the wheel but will continue to enjoy your insight of the sport from the booth.

There are two events that stand out with me when I look back at Dale's career and they are the 1993 Daytona win with his dad, Ned, calling the race and helping him to his first Daytona win by holding off Dale Earnhardt. The other was in 2000 when Dale had a "clean sweep" at Daytona by winning the Bud Shootout Qualifier, the Bud Shootout, the Daytona 500 pole and the Daytona 500.

It has certainly been a great ride, Dale and we thank you. I hope you know you can enjoy a little more golf, so hit them long and straight. Your are all class.

Steve Mull
Hickory, NC

A Super and A Polite Driver

2008-05-12T10:52:00.001-04:00

I took this picture of Dale in Hickory. In 1993 he won his first Daytona 500. Later he sign it.

Me and some friends have a bus with power, running water, beds and a deck on top to see races in the infield. We have been to over 60 races in it.

In 1996 we went to the last North Wilkerbore race in 1996. Took a picture Dale in the pits. He sign it later. He has been a super an polite driver ever time.

Miss you Dale..

Charles McCaslin

Newton N.C. 28658

Racing into the Future

2008-05-09T08:20:00.000-04:00

Dale Jarrett is responsible for my seven year old souvenir named Race!

My husband, being a huge DJ fan had his groom's cake made into the shape of a race track with the words "Racing into the Future," on the side. My gift to him was a pair of tickets to his very 1st race at Talladega in 2000.

After trying to conceive for over a year, we had given up. It was during that trip to see Dale race that we conceived our son, whom we named Race. We decorated his room all in Dale Jarrett. The cool thing was he weighed 8lbs. 8ozs. We placed a big 88 on his door and promised to take him to meet Dale someday. That will be this weekend.

After all, I must thank him don't you think!

Sandra Stewart
Tupelo, Mississippi

Great JV Basketball Coach

2008-05-08T09:40:00.003-04:00

Many of the best memories that my son (Brad) has of Dale Jarrett is when Dale coached his school's JV basketball team at St. Stephen's Lutheran School back in 2001
My son was in 5th grade at the time. He thought it was really cool being coached by a famous sports figure. For myself attending the basketball games I was always impressed with Dale, when people asked him for his autograph he always took time out to give it.

I know I will miss him as a racecar driver.

Michael E. Younghouse
Hickory, NC

Mustache or not, we still love you

2008-05-08T09:32:00.000-04:00

Dale,

I was so dissapointed when you shaved off your mustache! But I got over it!

Mustache or not, we still love you in Hickory!

Sharon Kenz
Hickory, NC

Local fan meets her hero

2008-05-08T09:26:00.003-04:00

Bea Steen poses with stock car driver Dale Jarrett at the “Get on Track Down Under with Dale Jarrett” event in Kansas City, Kan., Sept. 28. Bea Steen was ‘honored’ and got everything she wanted out of a trip to the NASCAR Banquet 400 stock car race in Overland, Kan., two weekend’s ago. But if you’ve ever crossed paths with the lady everyone affectionately refers to as “Aunt Bea,” then you probably think she deserves even more.

Steen, a cancer survivor, has been an avid fan of everything going on in the world of sports in the Capital City area for years. She’s hosted numerous players from the local baseball and hockey farm clubs, but mostly it’s her infectious, upbeat personality that makes others just want to be around her.

Having Steen as one of your backers is a bigger honor than she may ever realize and the fact that she just brushes off that notion only makes her sincerity as a fan stand out even more.

In this particular case Steen is a big fan of stock car racer Dale Jarrett. She doesn’t just like Jarrett for his racing, but also his work with those less fortunate. Among Jarrett’s charities are the American Cancer Society, Make-A-Wish Foundation and Brenner’s Children Hospital. He is also the NASCAR spokesman for the Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots program.

Last year, she took in a NASCAR event in Las Vegas. While ‘hanging around’ the UPS corporate tent of Dale Jarrett she, as per her usual, struck up conversations with passersby and before long was in deep with a UPS spokesperson. Next thing you know the UPS folks are inviting her to come to an event as a guest of honor.

Shortly thereafter Steen got the bad news that she had cancer. Months of chemotherapy and radiation treatments would’ve made missing an invitation seem minor for most, but not Aunt Bea.

She kept her mind on meeting her hero and as things began to get better, she got hold of UPS and asked if the offer was still good. It was, of course, and Steen began making plans to get to Overland Park, which is a suburb of Kansas City.

“The cancer is in remission and I haven’t had any complications from it since,” Steen said. “It can come back and I’m scheduled for a MRI and CAT Scan in February just to check if it’s spreading.”

The trip to Las Vegas made Steen an even bigger fan of Jarrett’s as she was given jackets and other paraphernalia befitting one of his top fans. Still she wasn’t one of the Team Jarrett’s elite members and could only attend the gala, such as the one in Overland Park by special invite. The dinner with Jarrett was hosted by Outback Steakhouse, which assisted Steen mightily in the endeavor.

Steen’s children, who ponied up the money for her airfare, made the trip possible. She got discounts on her room, race tickets and ground transportation. Steen got to meet with Jarrett and he autographed her fan club cap and “Toys for Tots” (another Jarrett sponsor) model car.

As for Jarrett, he finished fourth in what was one of his best finishes of an off season for him.

Her seats were in the grandstands just up from Pit Row and down from the starting line.

“They were awesome seats,” she said. “But to be honest it’s better to watch it on TV. It’s great being there, don’t get me wrong, but there’s too much action and it’s hard to follow.

“I just really appreciate everything that everyone did, so that I could do this. It was just great.”

Bea Steen submitted this Article by TOM STUBER IR Sports Writer 10/10/2006

Find out who your friends are

2008-05-06T16:06:00.001-04:00

Congratulation Dale! Hickory American Legion Fair thanks you for helping make this annual event enjoyable and affordable for citizens of all ages countywide.

Without your support this would not have been possible. Thanks for all that you do that is untold for our community.

There are not many places one can hear groups like Sugar Land and others for $7.00. The words in the song by Tracy Lawrence “Find Out Who Your Friends Are” can be said about you to all of Catawba County.

Thank you for keeping Rick Bowman’s memory alive, he loved the fair along with many others.

STEVE MAINS
HICKORY NC

Dale is one in a million

2008-05-06T13:40:00.000-04:00

This 70 year old grandmother has been following stock car and open wheel racing since I was 7 years old.

The first Brickyard I began looking for the number 88 car and the "White Rain" car in the Busch series.

Dale came to Vegas and I was happy to stand in line for hours just to meet him and get his autograph.

I thanked him for being a wonderful role model. Dale is one in a million.

Sharon Phillips
Mesa, AZ

Proud to be a Dale Jarrett Fan

2008-05-05T10:21:00.005-04:00

Used to hang out with some friends in Dale’s garage
In Newton back in the early ‘80’s. Watched him race his
Heart out at the track. “You’ve come
Along way!” Proud to be a DJ fan!

Laura
Conover, NC

DJ Fans Forever

2008-05-05T10:18:00.002-04:00

We have been great DJ fans..since 1997...We were never able to afford to have the pleasure to attend a race.

My husband was stricken with lung cancer in Feb 06...He has endured two major surgeries,months of chemotherapy and as of this date is still taking chemo treatments..You see he has an 86% chance of this cancer returning with a venegance within two years...I wanted with all my heart to have Will meet his favorite Nascar driver.

I write Miss Blair (Phillips) on several occasions. She was always understanding and showed genuine sympathy. But she and Miss Penny Copen made a dream come true.

In March 2008 we attended Atlanta Motor Speedway for the entire weekend..only with the help of my family could we have ever pulled off such a trip financially...Mr Jarrett took time to have us brought to his motorhome..Talked with my husband, took pictures, signed autographs and even gave him a hat that he cherishes to this day.

We have such wonderful memories of that weekend and had it not been made possible with Mr Jarrett, Miss Blair, and Miss Penny it would have never happened.

There wll never be another driver to compare to Dale. I wll be forever indebted in my heart for ya'll to make that dream come true for him. I only wish now that we would actually see him in his last race!!!! But not financially possible now..

Thanks for the years of wonderful memories and what a joy to meet the man that is the same person on TV racing as in person..Wonderful!!!! Again, we will truly miss you in that car, May God Bless you and your wonderful family...DJ fans forever....

Will and Pat Riddle,
St Francisville, La.

The Early Days

2008-05-04T11:15:00.003-04:00

Back in the 1970's I was in the sign business. I lettered many race cars for various drivers from the Hickory area. One of these was Dale Jarrett. I started lettering cars for Dale when he was first starting driving in the "Late Model Sportsman Division" This is a picture of Dale with the car that I lettered. Pet Dairy was one of his very first sponsors. The other picture is a photo of the sign that I painted for his shop that he had in Conover,NC.

I thought that you may use these in your tribute to Dale. I know that this is a day late, but I just located my pictures today.

I haven't spoken to Dale recently. I hope that he still remembers me!!

Jerry E Miller
Taylorsville, NC
jerryandpam@charter.net

OUR CHAMPION IN UNIFORM

2008-05-04T11:12:00.000-04:00

NOTE TO SAY "THANKS" TO DALE JARRETT FOR THE MANY YEARS OF DEDICATION AS A DRIVER, CITIZEN,FAMILY MAN AND MOST IMPORTANTLY OUR CHAMPION IN UNIFORM.

FOR MANY YEARS EVERY SUNDAY WE SAT IN SUPENSE AS WE CHEERED YOU ON TO VICTORY LANE!

YOU ARE TRULY AN EXCEPTIONAL EXAMPLE OF A GENTLEMAN BOTH ON AND OFF THE TRACK. THE LOVE THAT YOU DISPLAY TO YOUR FAMILY AND THE COMMUNITY IS WHAT MAKES YOU THE CHAMPION YOU ARE. WE ARE VERY PROUD OF YOU AND WISH YOU THE VERY BEST IN THE FUTURE.

WE ARE HONORED TO SAY "DALE JARRETT" IS FROM HICKORY, NORTH CAROLINA.

THIS NOTE WE SEND TO YOU FROM
ALL OF YOUR FRIENDS
THE JEWELRY EXCHANGE
HICKORY, NC

My Mom Is Dale Jarrett's Biggest Fan

2008-05-02T10:30:00.003-04:00

My mom, Clarice Jarrett Hood (Ned's aunt) has always been Dales's biggest fan.

One summer when Martha (Dale's mom) was having lunch at mom's in Daytona, she noted "Clarice, you have more Dale memorabilia than I do!"

And at 90, mom is still Dale's biggest fan. She hopes to see Dale, Ned, Jason and Martha at the Jarrett Reunion next month in Hickory.

Barbara Hood

Hickory, NC

One big Dale Jarrett fan forever

2008-05-02T10:21:00.005-04:00

I've been a Dale Jarrett fan since he won the 1993 Daytona 500 and I can't express my feelings about the man in 100 words or less.

He's just such a warm, friendly, and caring person. The type of person that I'd be proud to call a close personal friend.
Thank you DJ for all the years of great racing and the fan club events!

We'll miss you seeing you on the track every week.

One big Dale Jarrett fan forever,
Dave Stein

York, Pa.

Pleased to count Dale and his family among our family of faith

2008-05-02T10:18:00.000-04:00

On behalf of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, the home congregation for Dale Jarrett and his family,

I congratulate Dale upon the completion of his active and successful career in auto racing.

Our congregation is pleased to count Dale and his family, Kelly, Natalee, Karsyn, and Zachary, among our family of faith.

Our prayer, as always, is that Dale will race well and safely on May 17, and that the Holy Spirit will bless him with good discernment as he looks ahead to new ventures and time with his family, community, and church.

Pr. Robert Shoffner, Hickory, NC

Thanks for all the fond memories Dale

2008-05-02T10:14:00.004-04:00

The first time I met Dale was in 1992 at Silver Spring Speedway in Mechanicsburg, PA. At that time there was a 3/8 mile dirt track where my family raced late models. The track was having a special race where cup drivers came to race late models. Dale had just started driving for Joe Gibbs that year. I got his autograph and he was so nice to me and my son who was only 7 years old at the time. That was the day I became a Dale Jarrett fan.

I got to meet Dale again in 1997 in Washington DC. I was there for an automotive competition and Dale was the guest speaker. By this time Dale’s career was flourishing and he had already won 2 Daytona 500’s and the Brickyard 400 and had finished 3rd in the point standings in 1996. I was sure that he would be different from when I had met him 5 years earlier. Much to my amazement he was the same guy he was prior to all his success. I had pictures from the dirt track and we talked about the time he was there for the special race.

I have been a loyal Dale Jarrett fan for all these years. Thanks for all the fond memories Dale.

Gayle Leinbach
Mohnton, PA

Thanks for all the NASCAR memories

2008-05-02T10:08:00.002-04:00

Dale:

You will be missed--but not forgotten. Today is a celebration of your successful accomplishments and your future endeavors.

Thanks for all the NASCAR memories.

Diana L. Madden Hickory, North Carolina

One of a Kind

2008-05-01T09:12:00.002-04:00

There is no question that Dale Jarrett has had a phenomenal racing career and that he has been one of Nascar's best. However, the thing that impresses us more is his success as a great father and husband. He and Kelley have a wonderful family. Even with his busy schedule, he has always found time for his children and attends as many of their sporting events as possible. He has always shown the willingness to assist the youth of our community and to speak to kids of all ages at anytime or place. Dale is one of a kind. We are proud of you and your family. Way to go Dale!

Scott and Stephanie Hanvey
Hickory, NC

No Fan Could Ask For More

2008-04-30T09:10:00.000-04:00

Hi,
I have been a fan of DJ's for quite a few years now as have my family. We are involved in racing as well.

We have been attending the August race in M.I.S. for several years now just for the opportunity of watching this talented, gentleman driver. He was my soul reason for going there.

As a result I was able to meet him at a fan club function and see him win. No fan can ask for more.

We are Canadians so it's not as easy for us to follow our favorite Nascar drivers bit it was definitely worth the trip.

There will never be another Dale Jarrett and our interest in Nascar has gone down hill considerably since his retirement.

We do have our memories though and now as much as we miss him we wish him and his family many happy years of retirement.

We will just have to be grateful for any time we can watch him on TV. He is one of the best and unfortunately a Champion who was never really given the respect and notoriety he deserved by the media. But his fans love him and will never forget him...Good luck DJ!

Marnie Ruigrok
Hepworth, Ontario, Canada

Dale Jarrett is a great man.

2008-04-29T14:53:00.002-04:00

Yes this is Crystal Brown. My son get to meet Dale Jarrett before he passed away in Aug 2005. Kyle's best friend set this up for him for a x-mas gift. That was in Dec and Kyle passed away in that Aug. Dale Jarrett is a great man. He made Kyle so happy and a day that he would not forever.

Crystal Brown
(KYLE BROWN)
Denver NC

He's just a great guy

2008-04-29T11:12:00.003-04:00

The following are quotes from Tony Stewart regarding Dale Jarrett...

What is you favorite memory about Dale Jarrett's career?
"He's just a great guy -- probably seeing him win the Daytona 500 and having his dad doing the commentary live as he's coming down to win the Daytona 500 was pretty cool. I'm excited for him as a person, I'm sad as a driver to see him go -- we're going to miss having him down in the garage area every week. You have to be excited for somebody like him that's done this as long as he has and he's leaving on his own terms. He's got other things that he wants to do with his life and I think we all ought to be happy for him."

Can you talk about what Dale Jarrett has meant to the sport?
"He's been a great voice. He's kind of been a mentor in the way that (Dale) Earnhardt Sr. was -- when Dale Jarrett spoke about something -- everybody listened and took to heart what he said. He's always had that smile on his face and he's got that famous DJ smile. He was a great champion, he was a great winner and he was a great ambassador for this sport. He was one of the first guys when I won my first race at Richmond to congratulate me. He made you feel welcomed and you appreciated his friendship."

How was Dale Jarrett to race against?
"He was very fair -- he was one of those guys that would race you hard when it was time to race hard and when it was early in the race and it didn't mean much, then he knew to be patient. He raced you the way you raced him. If you learned to be patient and race him with respect he would do the same."

How is Dale Jarrett off the track?
"He's great and a lot of fun. He's got a great personality and is a big sports fan. Rather it's college basketball, pro football and obviously he's a great golfer. He's just a great athlete off the track also."

Contributed by
Mike Arning
True Speed Communication
http://www.truespeedcommunication.com/

Champion among Athletes

2008-04-29T09:15:00.002-04:00

As we have watched Dale’s racing career from the sidelines, we’ve been incredibly proud to call him our Honorary Chairman for the Greater Hickory Classic at Rock Barn. Dale has provided unparalleled support for this tournament since its inception – from making special appearances to hosting the annual Dale Jarrett Shootout for charity. His involvement has added another level of professionalism and fun not only for our spectators, but also for the Champions Tour pros who compete here each year. Dale is a champion among athletes and is always at the top of his game, whether in a race car, in a TV booth, or on the fairway at Rock Barn Golf & Spa.

We know Dale secretly wants to race the truck – but we’re also convinced he would be an excellent addition to the world of professional golf. How about it, Dale? Retirement on the Champions Tour?

Contributed by
The Staff of the Greater Hickory Classic at Rock Barn Presented by Kia Motors

Photo by Glenn Fox

THOUGHTS ABOUT DALE JARRETT AND A FAVORITE MEMORY

2008-04-28T12:31:00.000-04:00

Below are some quotes from Jeff Gordon when asked about Dale's final "points" race at Bristol earlier this year.

"He has had a heck of a career and I have had a blast racing with him," said Jeff Gordon, driver of the No. 24 DuPont Chevrolet Impala SS.

"I feel fortunate to have raced him for some great wins, great battles for wins as well as for championships."

He is just one of the highest quality individuals and race car drivers that I have ever raced against. It is really odd to me when guys you have been racing with say they are retiring and are not going to be out there on the track with you any more. It definitely makes you think about where you are at in your career and those that you had racing with them.

"We have had our run-ins too. I remember one day looking up to him and we weren't real happy with one another. Dale has been a guy that I have always respected and admired for a very long time.

Hate to see him go but you know what, he has had a heck of a career so he should be very proud of that.

"Here you have a guy that comes from a racing family. With Ned Jarrett and his legacy in this sport, I think it has been able to be carried down to Dale.

To go out there and be a championship-winning driver is great. I have always respected him as a competitor, but the person that he is off the track and away from the race car to me is as good of a person as you are ever going to meet. I like the way he handles himself.

"To me, he is just one of the great guys that you will ever meet. His legacy is going to be very broad because of performance -- he has performed at a high level, he has won a championship, the Daytona 500 -- and he is just one of the greatest people you will ever meet."

Contributed by
Jon Edwards
Performance PR Plus

The human side of Dale Jarrett

2008-04-28T11:08:00.002-04:00

Dale Jarrett is a well-known icon of the racing world for sure, but we know another side of him.

Dale and wife Kelley generously help many charitable causes. Through their foundation they have enabled the success of Project Potential, a program helping rising freshmen with differing problems make better choices, matriculate through Hickory High and graduate with college scholarships. In five years, they have helped 74 youngsters secure a bright future.

This photo of Dale with five of our Project Potential seniors says it all. Dale spoke at our annual banquet at Lenoir Rhyne College in 2005.

A Very Classy Guy

2008-04-28T09:14:00.000-04:00

Kurt Busch on Dale Jarrett:

“It’s incredible to grow up watching the races and to be rooting for those drivers. When I was growing up there was Ken Schrader, Rusty Wallace, Bill Elliot and Dale Jarrett – a guy that won the 1999 championship. A guy that I met for the first time when I won the 1999 Southwest Tour championship – they brought all the champions to Homestead and I got to shake his hand. That was one of the coolest moments – I got to meet a NASCAR champion. That was the first champion I ever met.

“My first start at Dover, he started right behind me. I just pulled out of the way as quickly as I could because those guys wanted to go a lot quicker than I did at the start of the race. To see him win the Daytona 500 a bunch of times – to win at Michigan with the Wood Brothers for his first win - there are so many Dale Jarrett classic moments – he’s a very classy guy. Somebody each and every young driver should look up to him for what he has done for the sport and behind the scenes. A pure champion that has that legacy from his father Ned –it’s a racing family - it’s tough seeing him retire lile he has. It will always be that Dale Jarrett was a champion that I looked up to and try to mock some of his actions.”

Dale Jarrett is not only a gentleman, NASCAR champion and legend, but a great person

2008-04-28T09:11:00.001-04:00

Elliott Sadler’s comments from when he was asked about that before the Bristol race.

“Dale Jarrett is not only a gentleman, NASCAR champion and legend, but a great person in so many ways. He helped me when nobody else would give me the time of day when I first got into the Cup level. He took the time to not only talk to me, but actually took me around a track one time just to show me what I needed to look for when I got in the race car. I was just some guy who was coming out of the Late Model stage into the NASCAR level and it amazed me that he took that time when he was already a champion.

“As time went on, he became a teammate to me and continued his role as a mentor in racing and life. He showed me how to deal with sponsors, people, media and everyone else you come in contact with in this sport. NASCAR, and myself, are really going to miss Dale Jarrett being around on a weekly basis in the garage area. But, the good news is fans are going to benefit from his knowledge as he becomes an analyst with ESPN. I’m going to enjoy watching race tapes just to hear what he says about what we’re doing on the track.”

Contributed by Tim Packman
Team 19 Communications
Gillett Evernham Motorsports

Thank you, Dale

2008-04-28T09:05:00.001-04:00

My father introduced me to NASCAR when I was young. Now I am 11 years old. I have enjoyed watching races for many years.

As I got older I learned the names and numbers of all of the NASCAR drivers, including Dale Jarrett #44.

As an active member of the community, Dale participated in the Salt Lake City 2002 Olympic Torch Relay. My mom and I watched Dale carry the Olympic torch in February 2002 while he ran along Hwy. 70 in Hickory.

Dale posed for a picture with me at a social gathering prior to running. Thank you, Dale!

Barbara McAnulty
Hickory, NC

A Great Race and Person

2008-04-23T09:21:00.000-04:00

I first met Dale when he was racing late model cars in Hickory. I have followed his racing the # 21 Woods car. The Joe Gibbs # 18 and then # 88 of Robert Yates. Racing the # 44 for Micheal. Dale, I was in Atlanta when you won the championship. You were a great racer, and person. Continue to be the person you are for family and friends.

Irene Curtis
Lenoir, NC

What A Career

2008-04-23T09:20:00.001-04:00

DALE,

WHAT A CAREER U HAD--OUR FAMILY WILL MISS THE RACING PART OF YOUR CAREER-BUT DO SO ENJOY WHEN U ANNOUNCE.

I WAS BORN AND RAISED IN HICKORY-STARTED GOING TO HKY SPEEDWAY AT AGE 10 (NOW 66)-NEVER QUIT GOING SINCE-EXCEPT NOW I WATCH RACING ON TV.IN ROCKINGHAM.

YOU ARE ONE OF THE GREATS. YOU RACE LIKE THE GREATS (IE DALE SR.-HARRY GANT-BOBBY ISSAC-ALLISONS-UP KNOW THEM) YOUR SOFISCATION ,INTELLIGENCE AND TALENT IN RACING IS WHAT MAKES ME STILL A RACE FAN.

RACING STILL HAS SOME OF THEE STILL RACING-JUST WISH -''THE WHINNING''WOULD STOP !!!

THE BEST OF HEALTH,HAPPINESS AND BLESSINGS TO UP AND YOUR FAMILY.

BETTY HILDRETH

ROCKINGHAM, NC

Great Driver, A Greater Person

2008-04-21T09:18:00.000-04:00

In 1993, Dale Jarrett drove the #18 car. He won his first Daytona race that year and I took his picture. Later on, he autographed that picture for me. My friends and I traveled to over 60 races in a bus we had fixed up. In 1996, we went to the last North Wilkesboro race and I took a picture of Dale in the pits. Again, I tracked him down later on and he signed that picture for me. He is always a gentleman and glad to talk with his fans. He is a great driver but even a greater person.

Charles Mccaslin
Newton, NC

Pit Crew Member for a Day

2008-04-21T09:16:00.000-04:00

I know Dale doesn't remember me now, but he and I are the same age and played on the swings together at Hickory Motor Speedway when we were kids. His dad was racing and my dad was a spectator. I have been a fan of his from the beginning. The highlight of my "fanship" came when I entered a contest and won. I got to be on Dale's pit crew for one race. They were so nice. The crew let me help push the car, gave me a hat and shirt and fed me. That was the best!!! I wish him the best!

Gene Riley

Hickory, NC

A class act

2008-04-21T09:15:00.000-04:00

I was fortunately part of the early years. I owned a body shop and did paint work on several of Dale's cars. We won the Best Appearing Car at Martinsville Speedway while Dale was still in the old Sportman Division. We worked along side with Dale and Bisquits (Rick) for days on end (without sleep). The body shop was always the last to get the car, and the most rushed to finish.
With all of Dale's success, I sometimes have to laugh that in the beginnings we all had to pool our money to afford a bag of cheeseburgers and a 6 pack of Bud from Circle S Diner.

I wonder if Joe Gibbs ever knew Dale was really a Dallas Cowboy fan?

Happy Retirement to a class act !

Topper Mitchell

Hickory, NC

Litte Red Mustang

2008-04-21T09:10:00.000-04:00

Dale Jarrett worked with me at Hickory Printing in or around 1974. We worked on the same machine together. I liked drag racing at that time but all Dale ever talked about was NASCAR. As the years went on, I came to see his way of thinking as my wife and I love NASCAR, in fact so much so, that we bought the red 1965 Mustang that used to belong to his father, Ned. Both Dale and Ned have done so much for our area we should all be thankful to them. We'll always keep your Mustang, Ned!

Dale Jarrett Fan

Hickory, NC

A True Gentleman

2008-04-21T09:06:00.001-04:00

I will always think of Dale Jarrett as a true gentleman. His charity work may have gone unnoticed by the racing world but his home community is well aware of his selfless contributions to needy causes. His sense of humor and his ability to identify with his fans makes him a wonderful human being and one of the greatest NASCAR racers of all time. This is a photo that illustrates this. I'm the one in hysterics.

Lana C. Hartshorn
Conover, NC

Dale Jarrett at Newton-Middle School

2008-04-21T09:04:00.000-04:00

In the early 1990's, I was teaching at Newton-Conover Middle School (and was one of Jason's 7th grade teachers).

Each year after the Daytona 500, Dale would come speak to our eighth graders where he would try to help them understand the importance of setting goals and challenging them to work through the hurdles they would face to reach the goals they set.

His easy-going delivery that blended racing and personal anecdotes allowed him to connect with many of our kids and really make a difference in how they began to look at their futures. Even the year he won his first 500 and rocketed to celebrity status in NASCAR, he made time for the children at NCMS.

Dale, congratulations on a stellar career on and off the track. Best wishes to you, Kellie, and the girls as you embark on your new endeavors.

Jeff Sherrill
Associate Director
National Association of Student Councils
Reston, VA

(Former teacher @ N-C Middle School)

Fan Forever

2008-04-21T08:58:00.001-04:00

Dale,

You know me from Michigan. My name is Shelley Whisman. I live in Kalamazoo (Vicksburg) Michigan.
I have been in your fan club for years. I have seen you at many fan events.

I have chosen not to pick another driver because you are and will be number 1 to me forever. I don't think there is another driver that is nicer and more considerate and caring to his fans. You are the best spokesperson there can be. We actually met your dad in Daytona a couple of years ago and told him how great of a son he raised.

I will miss you on the track this year in Michigan. You are a hero to me because of all you do on and off the track.

My mother died of breast cancer in 2002 and I thank you and Kelley for being the great spokespeople that you are and all the donations you have made to the Susan B Komen foundation. I will miss you and idolize you forever.

Shelley Whisman & DJ (The Yorkie)

DJ, This song's for you

2008-04-21T08:57:00.002-04:00

I don't know exactly how to include this in an e-mail, but I wrote a song called "Hanging Up The Keys" about DJ. It's up on YouTube. I would send the words but it's more than 100 words. Here's the link. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tod5GA2hLVo

Thanks

Randy Prahl
Henryetta, Oklahoma

A Gentleman's Gentleman

2008-04-21T08:55:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to say thank you to Dale for the many years of representing the sport of NASCAR in such a gentle way. You are the GENTLEMANS GENTLEMAN and I am proud of your contributions both on and off the track... Good luck in your announcing endeavors and I look forward to hearing you for many years to come. And again thanks for the memories!!!!!

David Digh
Gastonia, NC

Dale Jarrett's Generosity

2008-04-21T08:49:00.000-04:00

Dale Jarrett generously agreed to help promote The BIG Read during its first year. I am attaching a photo and caption (read below).

Margaret Allen

Hickory, NC

Dale Jarrett has always been generous with his time and willing to support worthy projects in his hometown. In 2006, he posed for this promotional photo for The BIG Read community-wide reading initiative. He also appeared in a BIG Read public service announcement. The BIG Read is a collaboration between Lenoir-Rhyne College, Catawba Valley Community College, Catawba County Library System and Hickory Public Library.

--Photo by Margaret Allen, Associate Director of Marketing and Communications, Lenoir-Rhyne College.

Happy Days from Canadian Fan

2008-04-21T08:48:00.000-04:00

Hi,
This is for DJ he was and is a great racer. I am new to NASCAR only 5 years now but Dale is my driver and I am sad to see him go. He was always a not polite but not dirty driver and I felt he deserved the titles or wins that I seen him get.

Have happy days Dale and I look forward to the booth when I will get to see my Dale in street clothes. Again happy days Dale

sincerely,
Roxanne Ouellette Windsor
ON Canada

A fan and friend always

2008-04-21T08:47:00.000-04:00

Dale,
Wow!!! It is hard to believe that this is it. Boy has it been a roller coaster ride or what? I just wanted to take this opportunity to say that I am proud to be a fan and friend of yours. I am also sad at the same time that Rick did not get to see this day, but we all know that he has the best seat in the house. He was always so encouraging and optimistic in everything you did. He loved working with you all those years, thru the good and the bad. I hope that you and your family can enjoy this time together (Kelley don't kill him, LOL) and that you have fun in the booth. May God bless you. I love you all. Take care.

A fan and friend always,
Annette Bowman
Hickory, NC

Fan for Life

2008-04-21T08:46:00.001-04:00

I HAVE BEEN A BIG FAN OF DALE JARRETT'S SINCE I WAS ABOUT 4 YRS.OLD.

MY PARENT'S WHERE BIG FANS OF DALE EARNHARDT BUT NOT ME.

TO ME DALE JARRETT HAS ALWAYS BEEN SOMEONE A YOUNG PERSON COULD LOOK UP TO.HE AS ALWAYS BEEN MY HERO.

I REMEMBER WHEN I GRADUATED FROM NEWTON-CONOVER MIDDLE SCHOOL THEY KEEP IT A SECERT THAT DALE WAS GOING TO BE THERE.

THAT WAS THE BEST SURPISE ANYONE COULD HAVE GIVEN ME. EVEN THOUGH DALE WANT BE RACING ANY LONGER HE WILL STILL BE MY HERO. DALE YOUR THE BEST.

PEGGY BROOME
MAIDEN, NC

Dale Jarrett Memories

2008-04-21T08:45:00.000-04:00

I wanted to say how nice I thought Dale Jarrett was. My daughter is a huge fan of his and he signed an autograph for me to give her.I worked in Hickory at the time and he came into the store where I worked and was so nice to do this for me.Nascar has lost a great person and a good racer. Wish him the best.

Darlene Kent
Hickory, NC

Dale Jarrett Memories

2008-04-21T08:43:00.001-04:00

Dale Jarrett and his entire family have been a tremendous asset to our entire community.

Dale has put Hickory on the map through his long and distinguished career with NASCAR. He has contributed in so many different and beautiful ways.

His wife Kelly is known well in Hickory and environs for her charity and church work. The children are known as outstanding students and superior athletes.

Dale himself is a first class gentleman and this is apparent when once again we look at his family and what it accomplishes.

He and his Foundation do much in the community, indeed, probably the Unifour area, and most of us know little or nothing about that exemplarity work. I know how his Foundation assists in fighting pediatric cancer since Brett's Ride (in which I, of course, have a vested interest) receives a generous portion of money from that Foundation. Speaking on behalf of the Committee for Brett's Ride, we thank you Dale.

Dale is indeed a worthy candidate for a Dale Jarrett Day in Hickory, if not in all of Catawba County.

Walter L. Hitchcock Jr.

Hickory, NC

We're Looking for Stories about Dale Jarrett!

2008-04-18T16:03:00.001-04:00

Have a fond memory you'd like to share with us?

Post your story on here. Feel free to share a picture if you'd like!

Stories under 100 words will be considered for our Printed Newspaper, the Hickory Daily Record.