If the France family is the backbone of NASCAR, then the Petty family was the “lifeline” of the NASCAR. It was Richard’s father, Lee Petty, that won the very first race staged at the famous Daytona International Speedway in 1959.
But more importantly, it was Richard Petty who became the “poster child” of NASCAR. It was Richard Petty who charmed the fans. It was Richard Petty who won race after race, totaling 200 victories in the Grand National/Sprint Cup Series. It was Richard Petty who won 7 championships. It was Richard Petty who would sit for hours signing autographs for the fans, never tiring.
It was Richard Petty who set all the standards of NASCAR!
It is Richard Petty who is “The King”!
Long live the King!
Therefore, it is extremely fitting that “The King” is in the first class of inductees to the NASCAR Hall of Fame!
TIL NEXT TIME, I AM STILL WORKING ON MY REDNECK!
