Hershel McGriff, Matt Kenseth and Kirk Shelmerdine were the three individuals announced on Wednesday (May 4) to be inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2023. McGriff earned induction on the Pioneer Ballot and Kenseth and Shelmerdine headlined the Modern Era Ballot. Here’s a look at what got them there:
McGriff: oldest driver to start a NASCAR-sanctioned race at 90 years, 4 months, 21 days old and 1986 NASCAR K&N West Series champion
Kenseth: 39 NASCAR Cup Series wins, 2000 Cup Series Rookie of the Year, 2003 Cup Series champion
Shelmerdine: Four-time Cup Series champion crew chief (1986, 1987, 1990, 1991)
Former NASCAR President Mike Helton was also involved in the proceedings as the recipient of the Landmark Award for his contributions to the sport of auto racing.
McGriff, Kenseth and Shelmerdine will be formally inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame on Friday, Jan. 20, 2023.