TriStar Motorsports owner Smith dies at 63

TriStar Motorsports team owner Mark Smith has died after a prolonged battle with cancer. He was 63.

Smith (pictured below) fielded cars in the Xfinity Series since 2010 and in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series from 1989-97, 2012-13 and in 2017 with JJ Yeley and Cole Whitt, who finished a season-best 12th in the Brickyard 400.

"Mark's first love and priority was his family but racing was his passion," the team said in a statement. "He began his racing career building engines for his brother Jack's drag car in the 1970's. Mark moved his family from the West coast to pursue a career in NASCAR. Mark was a man of integrity. As owner of TriStar Motorsports and Pro Motor Engines, he was known for being a hands-on owner, always willing to help where needed and provide a story or laugh. After nearly 3 decades in NASCAR, Mark's impact can be felt throughout the garage area and race community.

The team will continue operations under Smith's son Bryan.

"It was dad's dream to own and operate a NASCAR team," Bryan Smith said. "He devoted his life to that dream and his family plans to honor his wishes by continuing our efforts in his memory."

Smith is survived by his wife of 43 years, Kathy, and their children Amy, Bryan and Kevin.