Brock Beard, a unique voice in NASCAR coverage, deviates from the norm by focusing on lesser-known aspects of the sport. Unlike mainstream attention on top drivers, Beard’s Patreon LastCaronBrock site and @LastCaronBrock Twitter/X account delve into the experiences of Cup race drivers who finish last.
His recent Amazon release, “Cope,” delves into the compelling story of retired NASCAR driver Derrike Cope. Despite a career defined by 428 Cup Series starts with two wins and other notable achievements, Cope’s pinnacle came in a stunning upset against Dale Earnhardt in 1990. This victory, often overshadowed as Earnhardt’s loss, remains a defining moment in NASCAR history.
In an interview, Beard shared insights into his connection with Cope, stemming from childhood fandom and a personal encounter at Phoenix in 2018. The narrative highlights Cope’s transition from a promising baseball player to a resilient racer, uncovering aspects beyond his racing career, like his prowess in golf post-retirement.
Beard’s book aims to rectify the overshadowing of Cope’s accomplishment, countering the prevailing narrative by emphasizing the significance of Cope’s win rather than Earnhardt’s loss. This publication, available in print and e-book formats, contains 246 pages, including a collection of personal and career photographs from Cope’s private album.
Through meticulous narration, Beard brings forth a compelling narrative, echoing his previous success with the J.D. McDuffie book. This grassroots effort aligns with Cope’s own career trajectory, capturing the essence of an unsung hero in NASCAR’s history.
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