1979 Busch Clash

The inaugural Busch Clash, held on February 11, 1979, at Daytona International Speedway, marked the beginning of NASCAR's season-opening exhibition races. This 20-lap, 50-mile event featured nine drivers who had secured pole positions during the previous season. ^[1]

Race Format and Participants

The race was a sprint, with no points awarded, but a substantial purse of $150,000, including $50,000 for the winner. The participants were:

• Buddy Baker
• Darrell Waltrip
• Cale Yarborough
• Benny Parsons
• Bobby Allison
• David Pearson
• Lennie Pond
• Neil Bonnett
• J.D. McDuffie

Starting positions were determined by a random draw, with Benny Parsons drawing the pole position. ^[2]

Race Summary

At the drop of the green flag, Buddy Baker, driving for Harry Ranier's team, quickly asserted dominance. He led 18 of the 20 laps, with Darrell Waltrip closely trailing him throughout the race. The two drivers distanced themselves from the rest of the field, engaging in a high-speed duel that captivated spectators. Baker ultimately held off Waltrip's challenges, crossing the finish line a car length ahead to claim victory. ^[3]

Results

The race concluded without any caution periods, and the final standings were as follows:

1. Buddy Baker – 20 laps completed
2. Darrell Waltrip – 20 laps completed
3. Cale Yarborough – 20 laps completed
4. Benny Parsons – 20 laps completed
5. Bobby Allison – 20 laps completed
6. David Pearson – 20 laps completed
7. Lennie Pond – 20 laps completed
8. Neil Bonnett – 20 laps completed
9. J.D. McDuffie – 17 laps completed (engine failure)

References

1. "1979 Busch Clash laid the groundwork for NASCAR's modern exhibition races". Yardbarker. 2025-01-29. Retrieved 2025-03-02.
2. Wells, Jay (2015-03-01). "NASCAR's 1979 Busch Clash". RacingJunk News. Retrieved 2025-03-02.
3. nascalgia (2018-10-19). "The 1979 Busch Clash". NASCalgia. Retrieved 2025-03-02.