Hundreds of people lined up on the track at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Speedway on Saturday to get an autograph from longtime NASCAR driver Hershel McGriff. ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ 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.Â
The national anthem was another story. Â
Before McGriff, made, he played the national anthem on his trombone.Â
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)
People are also reading…
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 ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Speedway.Â
McGriff leaves a career with 37 wins in 234 tries, which dates back to 1950.
 “I’ve had a great life. I wouldn’t backtrack for anything,†he said. “I have family that’s with me and behind me, so it’s great,†he said before the race.Â
Award-winning sports journalist, University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ graduate and ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ native.Â