NASCAR Legends Honored With Prestigious Palmetto Patriot Award

DARLINGTON, Dec., 19 2010: Darlington Raceway president Chris Browning was awarded theprestigious Palmetto Patriot award by Lieutenant Governor Andre Bauer during a ceremony at the famed track today.

In addition to Browning, NASCAR legends David Pearson, Bud Moore, Cale Yarborough and Cotton Owens – all South Carolina natives – were also honored along with former Darlington track president and NASCAR Executive, the late Jim Hunter and his wife Ann.

"Since 2004, Chris Browning has presided over Darlington Raceway and has led the 'granddaddy of superspeedways' through some of the most trying economic circumstances the track has faced. He is a superb businessman and a great friend," Bauer said. "NASCAR is one of South Carolina's longest standing corporate partners, and with an estimated annual economic impact of over $50 million, one of the most important. I am honored to present Chris Browning the Palmetto Patriot Award," Bauer continued.

“I am humbled and honored to accept the Palmetto Patriot award on behalf of Darlington Raceway,” said Browning. “Darlington Raceway has played an integral role in the growth and popularity of NASCAR racing and is one of our state’s most treasured assets.”

The Palmetto Patriot Program recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to their fellow citizens and the State of South Carolina. The Palmetto Patriot Award is given for one's commitment to public service within their state and community. The award is the highest the Lieutenant Governor can bestow.

You can keep up with all of the latest news from Darlington Raceway at DarlingtonRaceway.com, on Facebook at Facebook.com/DarlingtonRaceway and on Twitter at Twitter.com/TooToughToTame.

Darlington Raceway, or the track “Too Tough To Tame” as it is known to many, is where the purest of NASCAR competition meets true southern hospitality. A NASCAR staple since 1950, Darlington Raceway has seen some of motorsports most talented drivers thunder to Gatorade Victory Lane. The NASCAR Camping World Truck Series will kick off the 2011 racing season at Darlington on March 12, 2011. On Mother’s Day weekend, May 6-7, 2011, NASCAR’s biggest stars return to battle the track “Too Tough To Tame” in the Sprint Cup Series SHOWTIME Southern 500® and Nationwide Series Royal Purple 200 Presented by O’Reilly Auto Parts.

Tickets can be purchased by calling the Darlington Raceway ticket office at 866-459-RACE or online at http://www.darlingtonraceway.com/tickets/.