Waid’s World: Many Changes Later, Atlanta Remains Young Writer’s First Challenge
Atlanta Motor Speedway is now known as EchoPark Speedway. It’s just another item in a massive list of changes that have taken place at the facility.
Steve Waid first started in motorsports journalism since 1972, when he began his newspaper career at the Martinsville (Va.) Bulletin. He spent over 50 years in the profession, first with the Roanoke Times-World News and later as publisher and vice president for NASCAR Scene and NASCAR Illustrated.Steve has won numerous state sports writing awards and several more from the National Motorsports Press Association for his motorsports coverage, feature and column writing.
For several years, Steve was a regular on “NASCAR This Morning” on FOX Sports Net and he was the co-author, with Tom Higgins, of the biography “Junior Johnson: Brave In Life.” In January 2014, Steve was inducted into the NMPA Hall of Fame. Additionally, in 2019 he was presented the Squier-Hall Award by the NASCAR Hall of Fame for lifetime excellence in motorsports journalism.
From 2020 to 2026, Steve was a contributor to Frontstretch with the biweekly column Waid’s World, taking a look back at his time in the sport. In addition to writing for Frontstretch, Steve was also the co-host of The Scene Vault Podcast with Rick Houston.
Sadly, Steve passed away in June 2026 after a lengthy illness. He was 77. Read our tribute to Steve and also watch our tribute podcast to our wonderful colleague and friend.
Waid’s World: Two Who Spent Huge Sums to Gain NASCAR Influence & Power – Briefly
From the years 1977-1985, two men spent more money and exuded more influence in NASCAR than any others.
Waid’s World: As Crew Chief and Beyond, Travis Carter Earned Respect As Leader
I freely admit that when my career as a motorsports journalist began, I sought out a man named Travis Carter. It seemed the natural thing … Continue Reading
Waid’s World: In the Past, NASCAR Had its Share of Those Who Played a Con Game
NASCAR’s colorful lore is littered with characters, charlatans, fakes and tricksters who ingratiated themselves into the stock car racing fraternity
Waid’s World: A Charlotte Victory Sparked Jeff Gordon’s Fledgling Career
Gordon began his NASCAR career with Bill Davis Racing. His Hall of Fame Cup success began at Charlotte when he won driving for Rick Hendrick.
Waid’s World: Alive and Well, North Wilkesboro Remains a Glance at NASCAR’s Past
NASCAR is once again set to return to one of its most hallowed tracks.
Waid’s World: The Talladega Curse — Part of NASCAR Lore or Perhaps Something Else?
During the 1970s, there were a series of events at the speedway that defied logic. They weren’t easily explained, understood nor pleasant
Waid’s World: Gone, Yes — But There Will Always Be Al Pearce
Remembering longtime NASCAR journalist Al Pearce, who died this week.
Waid’s World: Old Darlington Raceway Has Come Far from Near Extinction
Darlington hosts two Cup races: throwback weekend and the Southern 500. But its spot on the schedule was not always a guarantee.
Waid’s World: Rusty Wallace Faced a Very Rocky Road to the 1989 Championship
Wallace wrecked Darrell Waltrip to win the 1989 Winston, sued his team owner to depart the organization and still won six races to capture the championship.