Donlavey Recovering From Surgery

Donlavey recovering from surgery RICHMOND, Va. (March 10, 1998) - W.C. "Junie" Donlavey, owner of the No. 90 Heilig-Meyers Ford Taurus of the NASCAR Winston Cup Series, was resting comfortably Tuesday in the surgical intensive care unit at Chippenham Medical Center, after undergoing successful surgery to repair a heart valve.

Donlavey, 73, a legendary owner who fields the cars driven by driver Dick Trickle, checked into the hospital on Monday for the surgery. He had been resting at home since Feb. 25 after a heart catheter on Feb. 24 at Chippenham.

Donlavey, who is in his 48th year of NASCAR Winston Cup team ownership, was awarded with the STP Richard Petty Achievement Award at the Daytona 500 in February. The Award recognizes individuals and organizations for their contributions to the success of the Daytona 500 and efforts to elevate the sport of NASCAR Winston Cup racing throughout the years.

Among the drivers who have driven Donlavey's cars are some of the legends of the sport, including Joe Weatherly, Cale Yarborough, Lee Roy Yarbrough, Tiny Lund, Emanuel Zervakis, Johnny Rutherford, Harry Gant, Bobby Isaac, Charlie Glotzbach, Buck Baker, Ricky Rudd, Benny Parsons, Buddy Baker, Ernie Irvan, Ken Schrader and Dick Brooks. Source: NASCAR Online