The Virginia 500 was held at Martinsville Speedway on April 20, 1958, before a crowd of approximately 15,000 spectators. A strong field of 47 cars took the green flag, with Buck Baker earning the pole position at 66.007 mph. Although Baker started from the front, it was Bob Welborn who produced one of the day’s most impressive performances. Driving the No. 4 J.H. Petty Chevrolet, Welborn started deep in the field from 20th position and steadily worked his way through the pack as the race unfolded. Four caution periods slowed the event which produced an average speed of 61.166 mph.
The turning point came in the 500-lap race when Glen Wood, who was leading with relief help from Jimmy Massey, appeared headed for victory. On lap 326, however, a blown tire sent Massey crashing, ending the team’s hopes and handing the lead to Welborn. He quickly built an astonishing four-lap advantage, only to see his comfortable margin disappear when he spun with just 30 laps remaining. After a trip through the pits, Welborn rejoined the race just ahead of Rex White and successfully held him off to the checkered flag, winning by approximately 12 car lengths. The victory earned Welborn $3,640. Rex White finished second, followed by Jim Reed, Whitey Norman, and Marvin Panch.
