Copyright Rhonda Beck, @BeckRacingMedia 2013

Last week the Commonwealth of Virginia honored NASCAR trailblazer Wendell Scott with a historical highway marker in his hometown of Danville, Va. to celebrate his legacy as the first African American to win a race in what is now known as the NASCAR Sprint Cup series (formerly known as the Grand Nationals). During the ceremony, Danville Mayor Sherman Saunders declared April the 5th, 2013 as Wendell Scott Day and his restored number 11 car was displayed.

On Saturday the family of Wendell Scott, including Sybil Scott, Deborah Scott Davis, Cheryl Scott Ashley, Frank Scott Sr., Wendell Scott Jr. and Michael Scott were at Martinsville Speedway to talk about the honor and reflect on Scott’s legacy in the sport.

“On behalf of my mother (Mary Scott), who is not with us today–but she was there yesterday–it was a momentous occasion for all of us,” Frank Scott said.  “When I think about it, as I reflect back, my mind goes to my mother, the fact that she was there to witness all of this. When the songs were being sung, she was singing along, she was clapping her hands. And that’s what’s important to us, as her children.”

Scott thanked the State of Virginia and the City of Danville for supporting the family through the years and for making Friday’s honor very special. Read On!