Ryan Blaney unveils throwback Darlington paint scheme

RELATED: Buy Darlington race tickets Ryan Blaney unveiled his throwback scheme on Monday evening via NASCAR America for Labor Day weekend’s Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway. Blaney, who drives the No. 21 Wood Brothers Racing Ford in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series, will pilot another famed No. 21 red-and-white scheme wheeled by Kyle Petty. He is the first driver to reveal a 2017 throwback Darlington paint scheme. "I’m really pumped the Wood Brothers wanted to do that (scheme)," Blaney said on NASCAR America. "I think it turned out great … I’m pumped to have it on the car, it's going to be a lot of fun." Petty drove for the historic Wood Brothers Racing team from 1985 – 1988, collecting two wins and 48 top-10s. He piloted the No. 21 Ford for half that period, in 1987 and 1988, when he won that year’s coveted Coca-Cola 600. This season marks the third year that Darlington will host a throwback-themed Southern 500 event. This year’s event will focus on the 1985-1989 era, considered a time of growth and exposure for the sport. The 2017 Bojangles' Southern 500 will take place on Sunday, Sept. 3 at 6 p.m. with coverage on NBCSN and MRN.