Daytona 500: NASCAR keeps honorary starter in family, tabs Wood Brothers Racing team

DAYTONA BEACH — Daytona International Speedway stayed in the NASCAR family for the honorary starter of Sunday’s Daytona 500.

The Wood Brothers family, to be exact.

To celebrate the team’s 75th anniversary, Eddie Wood will drop the green flag shortly after 1:30 p.m. for the Cup Series opener. Len Wood, Jon Wood, Keven Wood and Jordan Wood Hicks will all participate in starter duties, too.

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“Kicking off our 75th year in NASCAR this way is truly an honor — something beyond words,” team president Jon Wood said in a news release.

“For much of those 75 years, my dad (Eddie) and Len have been in the background, never seeking recognition or credit — that’s just who they are. This is an experience few get to have, and I’m so grateful they’re being recognized for their contributions and dedication.”

Fifteen years ago, the late Glenn Wood held the role, waving the green flag for the 52nd running of the Great American Race. Eddie and Len joined him on the starter stand.

Wood Brothers Racing remains the oldest active team in NASCAR. It was established in 1950 and has collected 100 Cup Series victories, including five in the Daytona 500.

Harrison Burton put the team in Victory Lane last August at Daytona, winning the Coke Zero Sugar 400.

“Wood Brothers Racing has an incredible legacy in our sport and at Daytona International Speedway over their famed history,” track president Frank Kelleher said. “We look forward to celebrating them throughout the weekend and can’t wait to see them wave the green flag for The Great American Race on Sunday.”

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Daytona 500: Wood Brothers Racing team to serve as honorary starter