August 7, 1997 Donnie Allison wins the Talladega 500 ... but is not in the car when it crosses the finish line. That honor goes to Darrell Waltrip. On an unbearably hot day, Allison falls ill, and during a late-race caution, Waltrip takes over. He wins the race under the fifth caution of the afternoon. Cale Yarborough finishes second. Waltrip’s “official” finish is 22, having retired after 106 laps with engine problems. Of the 40 cars that start, 16 finish. No relief driver has won in the Cup series since.