NASCAR Legend Darrell Waltrip Diagnosed With Progressive Brain Disease

Parlaying a Hall of Fame racing career into a long-lasting Fox Sports broadcasting stint, NASCAR legend Darrell Waltrip is stepping away from public life after being diagnosed with a progressive brain disease.

In a statement Wednesday, Waltrip and his family said that the icon “has been diagnosed with Frontotemporal Degeneration (FTD) complicated by possible Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) — likely from injuries incurred during his racing career.” (RELATED: Carson Hocevar, Ryan Blaney Trade Punches In Wild Bristol Brawl)

Waltrip, 79, is one of the biggest characters in the history of NASCAR, while also being a pioneer of building a brand around a personality. He also spent decades as a strong ambassador for the sport.

Throughout his career, Waltrip won 84 races and three Cup Series championships — 1981, 1982 and 1985. Following his run as a driver, he entered into the broadcasting booth. In Jan. 2012, he was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame as a part of the third class.

Darrell Waltrip's family has announced he has had a recent diagnosis of cognitive disease, which is causing some minor symptoms and will keep him away from the limelight. "Darrell is happy and otherwise healthy." … Full statement: pic.twitter.com/HIptQustpE

When Fox Sports began its coverage of NASCAR in 2001, Waltrip was the network’s first hire, and he’d go on to be known for his famous “Boogity! Boogity! Boogity! Let’s go racing, boys!” call.

From Kentucky, Waltrip raced fearlessly from the moment he made his debut in 1972 at Alabama’s Talladega Superspeedway, irritating opponents by defeating them in races and then talking trash afterward.

As a result, he was nicknamed “Jaws” by his rivals.

“While this disease will inevitably progress, thankfully it is currently limited to some minor noticeable symptoms,” said the family. “As a result, he will be stepping further away from the public limelight. Be assured, Darrell is happy and otherwise healthy — spending his time with his wife, Stevie, two daughters and his three young grandchildren. We are all grateful for your continued prayer, love and support!”

“Boogity! Boogity! Boogity!”