Richard Petty, famously dubbed ‘The King’, is set to grace the stage as one of the distinguished speakers during the 4th Annual Race Industry Week, scheduled from Nov 27 to Dec 1, 2023.
Petty stands tall as the most illustrious driver in NASCAR history, boasting an exceptional record of 200 career victories and securing an impressive seven NASCAR Cup Series championships throughout his remarkable career.
Born on July 2, 1937, in Level Cross, North Carolina, Richard Petty’s upbringing was steeped in the world of racing. His father, Lee Petty, a three-time NASCAR Grand National Champion and the victor of the inaugural Daytona 500 in 1959, was a pivotal figure in the founding of the renowned Petty Enterprises Racing Team. With a family deeply entrenched in motorsport, it was almost inevitable that Richard would follow suit.
Commencing his racing journey in 1958, Petty’s inaugural year saw him clinch nine top-10 finishes, earning him the coveted title of Rookie of the Year the following season. Building on his early success, he triumphed in Charlotte just two years after his NASCAR debut. The Daytona 500 became Petty’s stomping ground, securing victory in this prestigious race a remarkable seven times.
Beyond the racetrack, Petty’s personal life saw him tie the knot with Lynda Owens on July 22, 1959. Together, they raised a family of four children Kyle, Sharon, Lisa, and Rebecca. Carrying on the family legacy, Kyle ventured into NASCAR racing, continuing the tradition set by his father and grandfather.
Petty etched his name in the annals of racing history, setting unparalleled records that remain unbroken to this day. His accolades include an astonishing 127 pole positions, an unmatched 27 wins in a single season, a remarkable streak of 10 consecutive wins, 61 victories from the pole position, and 15 wins from pole position in a single season.
In a brief departure from NASCAR in 1965 due to rule changes affecting his cherished No. 43 Plymouth’s engine, Petty temporarily shifted gears to the drag racing circuit. However, he swiftly returned to NASCAR in 1966, clinching 27 first-place finishes, marking an exceptional season and securing his second Grand National Cup.
The 1970s witnessed Petty’s dominance as he clinched titles in 1971, 1972, 1974, 1975, and 1979, earning the driver of the year accolade in 1971. The 1979 Daytona 500 victory remains etched in history, breaking a 45-race drought during the race’s televised broadcast from start to finish. The race gained notoriety for the fistfight between Donnie Allison and Cale Yarborough, escalating after a last-lap crash, marking a pivotal moment in NASCAR’s rise to widespread popularity.
Petty’s final win arrived in a spectacular fashion in 1984 at Daytona, culminating in a nail-biting finish against Cale Yarborough amidst a yellow caution flag on lap 158. President Ronald Reagan’s presence at the event marked the first time a sitting president attended a NASCAR race, joining Petty in Victory Lane for a celebratory moment.
Beyond his victories, Richard Petty and the Petty Racing Team left an indelible mark on the racing world, contributing to the sport’s advancement with innovations like nylon window screens, roll bars, cooled helmets, and two-way radios.
Petty gracefully concluded his racing career in 1992 after participating in over 1,800 races. His illustrious journey earned him a spot in the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in 1997 and a prestigious place as part of the inaugural class inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2010.
ALSO READ: Kyle Petty Journey: Triumph Amid Tragedy in NASCAR’s Racing Realm
Our Reader’s Queries
What happened to Richard Petty?
Following his retirement from racing, Petty shifted his focus to the business aspect of the sport. Alongside his sons, he founded Petty Enterprises, a racing team that would go on to become one of the most successful organizations in NASCAR history.
Does Richard Petty still own a NASCAR?
For the upcoming 2023 NASCAR Cup Series season, Petty GMS Racing has undergone a name change and is now known as Legacy Motor Club. Interestingly, the legendary “The King” has no ownership stake in the organization, which includes the iconic No. 43 car that he made famous.
Where does Richard Petty live today?
Richard Petty still resides in Level Cross, N.C. and occasionally visits Richard Petty Motorsports in Welcome, N.C. to converse with crew members and inspect the No. car.
How many championships does Richard Petty have?
Richard Petty is a true legend in the world of racing, earning the nickname “The King” for good reason. With an impressive 200 wins, 123 poles, and seven championships (tied for the most ever), Petty’s record speaks for itself. He also holds the record for most wins in a single season (27), most Daytona 500 wins (seven), most consecutive wins (10), and most starts (1,185). Petty’s accomplishments are a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport.
