The North Carolina Drag Racing Hall of Fame honored accomplished track promoters Steve Earwood and the late Jim Turner alongside other luminaries during a gala event on Feb. 17. The ceremony, held at the Greensboro Coliseum, also inducted Larry “Spiderman” McBride, Rob Vandergriff, Wally Stroupe, and Gary and Charlie Wisecarver into its prestigious ranks.
The 21st annual Shriner’s Drag Racing and Hot Rod Expo served as the backdrop for this esteemed occasion. This event, a long-standing tradition, supports the Shriners’ Children’s Hospital, exemplifying the charitable spirit deeply ingrained in the drag racing community.
Steve Earwood, a stalwart figure in the racing world, received the Jeff Byrd Memorial Award for lifetime achievement. His three-decade tenure as the owner and operator of Rockingham Dragway solidified his legacy within the sport. Meanwhile, Jim Turner, posthumously honored with the Pioneer Award alongside his wife Dora, left an indelible mark as the former operators of Piedmont Dragway.
“It’s a great honor,” Earwood said, “because of all the years I had the pleasure of working with Jeff Byrd in the Winston Drag Racing Series, but to have Shirley (Muldowney) make the presentation put this one in a category by itself.”
Larry “Spiderman” McBride, a dominant force in Top Fuel Motorcycle racing, claimed his place among the Hall of Fame inductees. His 20 series championships and status as the fastest man on two wheels underscore his unparalleled skill and dedication. Similarly, Wally Stroupe, a versatile talent with experience in NHRA Pro Stock and IHRA Pro Mod, was recognized for his contributions both on and off the track.
The Wisecarver brothers, Gary and Charlie, epitomize the symbiotic relationship between racing success and automotive craftsmanship. Gary’s triumphs in the High Winding Gear Jammers series, complemented by Charlie’s IHRA Hot Rod World Championship, underscore their prowess. Rob Vandergriff, renowned for his “World’s Fastest ’57 Chevy,” emerged as one of the early stars of the Pro Mod circuit.
Reflecting on the significance of the honor, Steve Earwood expressed gratitude for the recognition. His collaboration with Jeff Byrd during the Winston Drag Racing Series stands as a highlight of his storied career. The added distinction of having Shirley Muldowney, a trailblazer in her own right, present the award elevated its importance.
Shirley Muldowney, a trailblazer in her own right, graced the occasion with her presence. Her groundbreaking achievements, including three NHRA World Championships, shattered barriers and paved the way for future generations. Jeff Byrd, remembered fondly as the President and General Manager of Bristol Motor Speedway, left an enduring legacy in drag racing circles, particularly through his stewardship of the Winston Drag Racing Team.
Jeff Byrd’s tenure overseeing the Winston Drag Racing Team, backed by R.J. Reynolds, left an indelible mark on the sport. His influence extended beyond individual accolades, shaping the landscape of both NHRA and IHRA competitions. The Winston Invitational, a marquee event held at Rockingham Dragway, further solidified his imprint on drag racing history.
As the North Carolina Drag Racing Hall of Fame celebrates its latest class of inductees, the legacy of these honorees serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of the sport. Their contributions, both on and off the track, continue to inspire and shape the future of drag racing.
