NASCAR legend Buddy Baker dies of cancer

Buddy Baker, a longtime popular NASCAR driver and commentator, died early Monday morning from lung cancer. He was 74.

Standing 6’6, Baker was nicknamed the “Gentle Giant” and regarded for his ability on superspeedways. In a career that spanned 34 seasons, Baker won 19 premier division races including some of NASCAR’s marquee events -- the 1980 Daytona 500, the Coca-Cola 600 three times (1968, ‘72 and ‘73) and the 1970 Southern 500.

Baker was the first driver to surpass 200 mph on a closed course when he broke the speed barrier in a 1970 test at Talladega Superspeedway. He was elected into the International Motorsports Hall of Fame (1995) and the National Motorsports Press Association Hall of Fame (1997). NASCAR named Baker as one of its 50 greatest drivers in 1998.

“Many of today’s fans may know Buddy Baker as one of the greatest storytellers in the sport’s history, a unique skill that endeared him to millions,” NASCAR chairman and CEO Brian France said. “But those who witnessed his racing talent recognized Buddy as a fast and fierce competitor, setting speed records and winning on NASCAR’s biggest stages. It is that dual role that made Buddy an absolute treasure who will be missed dearly.”

The son of NASCAR Hall of Famer Buck Baker, the younger Baker was born Elzie Wylie Baker Jr. in Florence, S.C. He made his premier division debut in 1959, making 700 starts before retiring in 1992.

Upon retirement, Baker became a television analyst for The Nashville Network and CBS where his folksy charm, humor and easygoing personality earned him widespread popularity. He joined SiriusXM NASCAR Radio as co-host of an evening show in 2007. It was on that program where Baker revealed on July 7 that he was fighting inoperable lung cancer and would step away immediately.

“Do not shed a tear,” Baker said signing off. “Give a smile when you say my name. I’m not saying goodbye. Just talk to you later.”