Image courtesy: Mark Martin Archive
Lately, it’s been humid and hot in Southeast Pennsylvania. It’s not the type of weather for rolling down the windows and cranking up the music. It’s for the AC dialed up to the max and making sure every window is sealed shut. A lonely commute made slightly better with a podcast.
To drown out the wind noise of the turnpike and the drag from my Thule roof rack, I have to entertain my ears. The weekly rotation of the latest country or nu-gaze tunes can only go so far at 7:00 a.m. So instead of music, the Dale Jr. Download slides into rotation.
This week was special because Mark Martin joined the show. Mark Martin is an absolute legend. He’s a fitness guru, Gucci Mane listener, luxury motor coach traveler, and of course—NASCAR Hall of Famer.
To say he’s interesting is an understatement. That’s why his book “Never Lift” is going to be must-read material.
The latest DJD episode talks about Martin’s life, career, and influence on modern NASCAR. Based on the nostalgic banter, there’s one aspect that made it clear this isn’t any autobiography.
It’s a passion project with his son.
Before I even knew this book was coming out, I started this archival website to do something similar. My Dad isn’t a race car driver, but he was a fan. A fan that was able to contribute to NASCAR history and Mark Martin’s Archive.
Matthew Martin runs “Mark Martin Archive.” A website and social media page dedicated to preserving his Dad’s legacy.
One of the photos my Dad took at the 1992 Hooters 500 was shared on his page. An iconic moment of Mark Martin driving down the front stretch of Atlanta Motor Speedway with Hooters girls hanging out of the window.
That was a special moment for me. In 1992, you wouldn’t even have access to drivers the way we do now. Not to mention, share our experiences and perspectives.
My Dad also captured his appearance at the 1990 NASCAR vs. NHRA charity softball game for Darrell Gwynn. It was also shared on Mark Martin Archive.
In the podcast, Mark Martin spoke so highly of Matt’s historical interests. He attributed a lot of the book’s work to Matt. He called it a father-son bonding experience.
I can’t imagine what it’s like growing up with a cup driver dad, but what I do know is how it is living with a passionate fan.
When Mark Martin said during his guest spot on DJD that he wouldn’t be anywhere without the fans—he meant it.
We appreciate former drivers backing the fans and for projects like Mark Martin Archive. NASCAR needs the Martin family, and “Never Lift” will be forever etched in NASCAR history.
As for my site, I want to share these stories and connect new fans to the people who made the sport. Just another passion project to carve a little bit of that history for my Father.
You can buy “Never Lift” on Markmartinarchive.com