Martinsville’s Grandfather Clock is more than just a trophy—it is a symbol of dominance at Martinsville Speedway. Since 1964, this handcrafted prize has become one of the most unique and sought-after awards in NASCAR. Legends like Richard Petty and Jimmie Johnson have proudly added it to their collections, but what makes this clock so special? With its rich history and deep meaning, this timeless trophy continues to captivate drivers. Its significance goes far beyond a simple victory celebration.
Key Highlights
- Martinsville’s Grandfather Clock has been a prestigious NASCAR prize since 1964, symbolizing driver skill and track dominance.
- The clock is handcrafted by Ridgeway Clocks and represents expertise, making it a treasured trophy among NASCAR drivers.
- Legendary drivers like Richard Petty and Jimmie Johnson have won multiple clocks, highlighting their success at Martinsville Speedway.
- The clock chimes every 15 minutes, serving as a constant reminder of racing achievement and competitive spirit.
- Joey Logano’s purchase of 40 extra clocks underscores the trophy’s importance and sentimental value to drivers.
Tradition Behind Martinsville’s Grandfather Clock
Since its inception in 1964, the tradition of awarding a Grandfather Clock to winners at Martinsville Speedway has become a cherished and unique aspect of NASCAR. This distinctive prize, chosen for its elegance and timelessness, represents more than mere victory at a race. It symbolizes a driver’s skill and dominance over the challenging half-mile track, a feat that demands precision and talent.
Each clock, handcrafted with care, serves as a tribute to the driver’s expertise and is displayed with pride in their home. The appeal of the Grandfather Clock is not just its craftsmanship but also its integration into personal spaces.
“Figured if you give something to the driver that their wives would like, then it’s going to be in a prominent place in their home.” – (Clay Campbell)
As Martinsville Speedway President Clay Campbell noted, the clock is a prize that appeals to drivers and their families, securing a prominent place in their homes. Over the decades, legends like Richard Petty and Jimmie Johnson have added these clocks to their collections, reinforcing the clock’s role as an iconic symbol of NASCAR excellence.
Origins of the Grandfather Clock Tradition
While the roar of engines and the smell of burning rubber might define a typical day at Martinsville Speedway, the origins of its Grandfather Clock tradition add historical depth to the racing experience.
Established in 1947 by visionary Clay Earles, Martinsville Speedway was designed to stand out in the racing world. However, it wasn’t until 1964 that the idea of a unique prize took shape.
Earles sought to create a prestigious award that would symbolize achievement timelessly. His collaboration with Ridgeway Clocks, a local clockmaker situated just three miles from the track, led to the conception of the Grandfather Clock trophy.
This partnership resulted in a full-sized clock becoming the new emblem of success. Fred Lorenzen became the first recipient of this distinctive trophy after winning the Old Dominion 500 in 1964, solidifying the clock’s status as a coveted prize in NASCAR history.
Martinsville’s Grandfather Clock in NASCAR History
The Grandfather Clock trophy at Martinsville Speedway stands as a tribute to NASCAR’s rich history, symbolizing accomplishment and tradition. Since its inception, it has been claimed by some of the sport’s most legendary figures, such as Richard Petty, Jeff Gordon, and Jimmie Johnson.
Petty, revered as “The King,” boasts a record 15 victories at Martinsville. However, his collection of clocks amounts to 12, as the tradition of awarding the clock began after his first three wins.
The clock’s iconic chime resonates every 15 minutes, serving as an enduring reminder of a driver’s skill and success, enhancing its status as one of the most coveted prizes in motorsports.
“And it’s always been kind of a standing joke through all of the clocks he has in all the various rooms of his house, that it must be pretty noisy over there every 15 minutes.” – (Clay Campbell)
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Expanding the Grandfather Clock Tradition
By broadening the scope of this iconic award, Martinsville not only honors the perseverance and precision required to conquer its challenging races but also enhances the symbolic status of the Grandfather Clock within the racing community.
This expansion reflects a deep respect for the tradition and the competitive spirit that defines NASCAR racing.
Why the Grandfather Clock Stands Out in NASCAR
Amid the diverse array of unique trophies in NASCAR, Martinsville’s Grandfather Clock stands out due to its rich history and the deep meaning it holds for participants.
Unlike other prizes such as live lobsters or gladiator swords, this clock symbolizes endurance and precision—a symbol of the challenges of racing. Its iconic status is reinforced by the sentimental value drivers attach to it, often displaying the trophy prominently in their homes.
“We got to thinking, it’s so important and so difficult to win here, we ought to give it to every race winner, whether it be modified, late model, trucks, Xfinity Series, so now everybody gets it.” – (Clay Campbell)
The Grandfather Clock, awarded since 1964, has become synonymous with Martinsville Speedway itself, representing a unique blend of tradition and prestige.
Significantly, Joey Logano’s decision to order 40 extra clocks for his crew after his 2018 victory highlights its importance within the racing community.
As anticipation builds for the upcoming Cook Out 400, drivers are enthusiastic to compete for this timeless prize, knowing it contributes historical significance to their achievements on the track.
News in Brief: Martinsville’s Grandfather Clock
The Grandfather Clock trophy at Martinsville stands as a unique symbol in NASCAR, embodying tradition and history. Its origins trace back to 1964, when track founder H. Clay Earles sought a distinctive award for race winners.
Over the decades, this clock has become an iconic prize, representing victory and a deep connection to the sport’s roots. As NASCAR evolves, the Grandfather Clock remains a cherished emblem, celebrating competitive spirit and honoring the legacy of racing excellence.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q: Who makes the grandfather clock for Martinsville?
A: Ridgeway Clocks were first produced by the Gravely Furniture Company in Virginia before being sold to Pulaski Furniture in the late 1980s. Howard Miller acquired the Ridgeway name in 2004.
Q: Who has won the most grandfather clocks at Martinsville?
A: NASCAR legend Richard Petty holds the record at Martinsville with 15 wins, but three came before the track awarded timepieces. His 12 clocks remain the most ever won.
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