Mark Martin, a celebrated NASCAR Hall of Famer and Batesville native, is back in his hometown this Saturday for Mark Martin Fan Days, hosted at Mark Martin Ford in Southside. Running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the event will feature opportunities for fans to meet Martin and purchase signed copies of his newly released autobiography, *Never Lift*. The book, co-authored with racing journalist Bones Bourcier, recounts Martin’s journey from Arkansas short tracks to the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

Speaking with Chad Whiteaker on Arkansas 103.3 KWOZ and 1340 KBTA on Friday, Martin revealed that his son, Matt, was the driving force behind writing the book, which took five years to complete. Reflecting on the process, Martin described it as a challenging but rewarding endeavor. “It was a long, grinding process to get it right,” Martin explained during the interview. “There’s a lot of information that starts out as a child in Batesville, Arkansas, and goes all the way to the NASCAR Hall of Fame.”

Martin’s racing career began in Batesville on local short tracks before advancing to NASCAR, where he claimed 40 Cup Series victories. Known for his relentless work ethic, Martin achieved significant milestones early in his career, including winning three ASA national late-model championships before the age of 22. In 1981, he made an impressive debut in NASCAR's top series, earning two pole positions and a top-five finish in just five starts—all in a car he helped build.

However, his path to success was not without setbacks. In 1982, financial hardships forced Martin to sell his racing equipment to settle debts, requiring him to rebuild his career on short tracks before ultimately returning to NASCAR. He went on to compete at the highest levels of the sport, racing professionally well into his fifties.

Martin called his induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame the pinnacle of his career. “Just a kid from Arkansas that made it all the way there. It’s quite a journey,” he reflected.

Fans attending Saturday’s event will have the chance to purchase copies of *Never Lift*, which Martin will be signing throughout the day. The autobiography is also available online. For those unable to attend in person, an audio interview with Martin discussing his career and book can be heard on Arkansas 103.3 KWOZ’s website.

The event marks another opportunity for Martin’s hometown supporters to celebrate the achievements of Batesville’s racing legend.