Jim Hunter began his long association with NASCAR as a member of the media. So in the wake of Hunter’s death on Friday at age 71, Talladega Superspeedway feels it is a fitting tribute to rename the track’s press box in his honor. Hunter began his career as a sportswriter, with stints as the sports editor of the Columbia (S.C.) Record and as a writer for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He also wrote several books, including a biography of legendary NASCAR driver David Pearson. Hunter eventually left the newspaper business and worked as the public relations director for both Talladega Superspeedway and Darlington Raceway. In 1983 he joined NASCAR as the Vice President of Administration. Hunter returned to Darlington Raceway as the track president in 1993. He remained there until 2001, when he became an executive with NASCAR, working as the Vice President of Corporate Communications. Over the years Hunter developed a reputation as a person who could interact smoothly with NASCAR officials, drivers and members of the media who covered the sport.(TSS)(10-31-2010)
