August 5, 1965 was the last time top-level NASCAR teams competed at Historic Cleveland County Fairgrounds Speedway. The NASCAR Grand National Series (Now Sprint Cup) winner that day was none other than Ned Jarrett. Jarrett went on to win his second NASCAR Grand National championship in 1965 shortly before his retirement from competition and beginning his career in television as a racing commentator.

Ned Jarrett returns to Historic Cleveland County Fairgrounds Speedway in Shelby, NC on April 21st, 2012 to wave the green flag as Grand Marshal for the RacersReunion® Vintage Championship Series (VCS). This event will mark the return of racing at this historic venue that once provided racing excitement and entertainment for the surrounding area. The track referred to by many in its heyday as the Shelby Fairgrounds Speedway has been silent for over 30 years.