Buzz Varner honored at Quick-8 banquet

(February 25, 2008) Clemmons, NC - Veteran racer Buzz Varner was honored last Saturday night in Clemmons, NC, as the Don Plemmons Quick-8 Racers Association gathered for it's annual awards ceremony.

Varner, the 61 year old veteran and charter member of the association, put together a sensational season in 2007. Lead by soft-spoken, 18 year old crew chief, Jamie Thompson, Varner then assembled additional hands-on expertise from "Suitcase Luther" Johnson and Tyrone Crowner.

After battling the best in the Quick-8 business all season long, Varner eventually edged out reigning champion Randy Weatherford by a mere 7 points.

Back in the late 1990's, Varner was poised to win the championship, and although he went to 7 finals that year he never rolled to victory lane. Varner also reached the finals 7 times in 2007, but the difference was his 5 wins, far and away his greatest season in 17 consecutive years of Quick-8 competition.

As Varner took the podium on Saturday night to deliver a heartfelt acceptance speech, he thanked all the necessary people, then directed the appreciation toward wife Jean - referring to her as the crew member who has been by his side every step of the way. At the conclusion of his victory speech, Varner was presented with a check, plaque and championship jackets for himself and entire crew.

In addition to Randy Weatherford taking a close runner-up in 2007, Rod Houck placed third in points, followed by Josh Chester and Rick Varner.

Buzz Varner has confirmed his plans to return to the driver's seat in 2008, once again driving the Don Plemmons Racing 1963 Pro Modified Corvette. Quick-8 action returns next month with a season-opening stop in Farmington on March 22.

Story and photos by: Van Abernethy Press Releases