Fan Hall of Fame

This is more than a race and these three individuals are more than fans. 2011 marked the inaugural year for the Talladega Superspeedway Fan Hall of Fame. Over 100 entries were submitted about fans that are avid fans and their traditions surrounding race weekends at Talladega. All submissions were discussed until the final selections were made. Thank you to everyone who submitted a nomination. The staff of the speedway couldn't pick just one or even two, we selected three very deserving individuals who have been coming to the track for as long as they can remember. They are some of the most dedicated fans and truly love Talladega Superspeedway.

Meet our 2011 Class of the Talladega Superspeedway Fan Hall of Fame:

Lemuel (Lem) Adams

Montgomery, Alabama

Nominated by: Vincent Adams (son)

This is Vincent's nomination entry:

My father, Lemuel L. Adams from Montgomery, AL has been in attendance at Talladega Superspeedway since it was opened in 1969. I started attending with him at age 5 or 6. I remember him coming to pick me up in Birmingham and take me to both races every year as I grew up. I always thought he had the BEST SEATS in the house - right on the Start/Finish Line on the top row of the Moss-Thornton grandstands. He never missed a race and I felt he hung the moon cause I equate it with 50 yard lines seats at the Alabama game. Talladega is my father's Alabama or Auburn Football Season Tickets. He was VERY generous by buying the entire row for as long as I can remember and bringing friends and family over the 40 plus years. There are relationships built on those two weekends over the last 40 years that will last a lifetime for him and myself. If anyone deserves this honor, it is my father. He is a dedicated family member of not just NASCAR, but Talladega. I grew up listening to all his NASCAR stories like fairy tales. It has always amazed me with his knowledge of the sport and history of it. I treasure that to this day. It would be the highlight of his life to win this honor. I know none more deserving or one that would cherish it more. Thank you for your sincere consideration of this honor for my Father. It is a gift I could never afford, but one he would cherish forever yet be so humbled.

Jenny Phillips

Crane Hill, Alabama

Nominated by: Faye Aaron

This is Faye's nomination entry:

Jenny should win because she is the greatest fan racing and Talladega has ever had. She has been going to races since the age of 2 and she is 53 now. She lives, breathes, sleeps and eats NASCAR. Jenny started out at BIR as a Bobby Allison Fan after his retirement it was Darrell Waltrip, then Dale Jarrett, and presently Tony Stewart. As you can see she is loyal to the driver that she pulls for. I think she would be an excellent choice for the Hall of Fame because she promotes Talladega Superspeedway in every way she can. Jenny loves bringing 'rookies' to the race track and showing them what racing is all about. She is bringing her grandson to his first race in April. Jenny's dad inspired her and the love of racing. He died in 2000 and she is determined to keep the tradition alive. So Jenny, her husband Randy and their son Tim can be found at Talladega during race week and any other time she can find an excuse to be at the race track.

Chris Mac Nicol (aka. The Talladega Tire Man)

Chelsea, Alabama

Nominated by: Tonya Mac Nicol (wife)

This is Tonya's nomination entry:

He has embodied Talladega Superspeedway as 'The Talladega Tireman'.  He loves supporting the Track as he wears his 'attire' proudly!  He refuses to miss a race and loves every aspect of the Infield.  He is fondly recognized and known throughout the 'DEGA community.  He would be absolutely PERFECT for this Hall of Fame!!

Chris also received nominations from several other people. Below are some excerpts from other nominations.

"Anyone that has meet Chris will not forget him, outgoing and smiling, treats everyone with respect.  Has gone out of his way to help an accommodate others." - Bruce Mac Nicol (father)

"He's probably provided more photo ops than most drivers which promotes goodwill among fans. He promotes racing via his website and facebook and does his part to get fans excited about attending the races." - Linda from Nashville, TN

"He graces the Infield both Spring and Fall, with his infectious grin, and scanty attire. He embodies the spirit of Talladega, with his edgy costume, his devout loyalty, and the sheer amount of friends that look for him each and every 'DEGA race." - Andi from Daytona Beach, FL

"Chris has been seen at races where the temperature called for parkas and scarves - still wearing nothing but his signature tire and straw hat. Now THAT'S dedication! ''DEGA just wouldn't be the same without Chris." - Diane from Helena, AL