In 2023, Dale Earnhardt Jr. took on the challenge of co-owning the CARS Tour, a crucial late-model racing series. Supporting this effort was Les Westerfield, a NASCAR veteran who played a significant role in shaping the series as a launchpad for aspiring racers. Sadly, Westerfield’s recent passing has left a void in the racing community.
While much attention in NASCAR often goes to prominent figures like Kyle Larson—whose 2023 season was marked by both triumph and heartbreak—many unsung heroes work behind the scenes. Westerfield was one of these individuals, dedicating himself as the touring series technical coordinator for NASCAR and the K&N East race director.
Following the acquisition of the CARS Tour by Earnhardt Jr., Kevin Harvick, Justin Marks, and Jeff Burton, major efforts were made to align the series with NASCAR. Westerfield played a pivotal role in fostering collaboration among regional track operators and technical directors, helping create synergy between the organizations. His contributions were critical to unifying rules and standards.
After his passing, tributes poured in from colleagues and fans alike. Kip Childress, executive director of the CARS Tour and one of Westerfield’s close collaborators, honored him with a heartfelt message on social media: “Just learned of the passing of Les Westerfield. What an incredibly knowledgeable, humble, and loyal man. Those of us who were able to learn from him are extremely fortunate. Godspeed, Les. You will certainly be missed.” Childress highlighted how Westerfield’s work ensured chassis builders adhered to standards shared by NASCAR and the CARS Tour.
Cherie Putnam, a trailblazer in NASCAR and the first woman to lead the sport’s only sanctioned series in Canada, also paid tribute, stating: “Godspeed, Les. Words can’t describe what you did for my career with NASCAR. Such a pleasure to work with you for those years. Success is achieved by a team, and I’m happy to have had you on mine. My thoughts and prayers to the Westerfield family. Rest easy, my friend.”
Fans also expressed their sorrow over the loss of this unsung hero. “Saddened to hear this. Loved seeing Les and catching up at the track. Always a pleasure to be around. Godspeed Les,” shared one fan. Another wrote, “Dang. Sorry to hear that. Condolences to his family and friends.”
The CARS Tour, which evolved from the USAR Pro Cup Series, has become a key stepping stone for rising talent in motorsports. Coordinating such a legacy requires dedicated individuals like Westerfield, whose efforts behind the scenes ensured the series’ success. One fan reflected, “I remember seeing him around the tracks. Unfortunately, I never had the chance to really talk to him. Thoughts go out to his family and friends.”
Westerfield’s contributions also impacted many drivers who transitioned to NASCAR’s higher levels, including William Byron, Harrison Burton, Ty Gibbs, and Josh Berry. Another fan, recalling Westerfield’s influence, remarked, “Les was a great guy! I met him in the All-Pro days, back in the late 1990s. We’ve been friends ever since! I learned a great deal from him. My daughter even got to know him at some ARCA races over the last few years.”
In a sport often dominated by stars and headlines, Westerfield’s legacy shines as a testament to the crucial work done behind the scenes. His dedication to fostering talent and advancing the sport has left an indelible mark, even as the racing world mourns his loss.
