Richard Petty – 1981 Daytona 500 Winner
February 15, 1981 the 23rd running of the “Great American Race”
The Daytona 500 of 1981 was a significant moment in the history of NASCAR and auto racing. This event, held on February 15, 1981, was the 23rd edition of the Daytona 500, and it was a race that saw a mix of triumph and tragedy, as well as some controversial moments that would forever be etched in the annals of motorsports history.
Late in the race after everybody else made their pit stops for fuel and tires, some taking only 2 tires. Richard Petty was in the led, but it was Petty’s turn to pit. With a winning call from his crew chief Petty only took one can of fuel and no tires and that is how Richard Petty won his record setting 7th Daytona 500. The 1981 Daytona 500 Winner…
Video by: Nascar All Out
One of the most significant events of the race was the tragic death of driver Ronnie Peterson. Peterson, who was driving for the Penske Racing team, was involved in a multi-car crash on lap two of the race. The incident, which was caused by a blown engine on a car in front of him, saw Peterson’s car slam into the wall and catch fire.
Despite the quick response of emergency crews, Peterson suffered severe burns and died the following day. The incident served as a reminder of the dangers of auto racing and the importance of safety measures.
Another notable moment of the race was the controversial finish. The race saw two dominant drivers, Cale Yarborough and Bobby Allison, battling it out for the lead in the final laps. As they came to the checkered flag, Yarborough attempted to pass Allison on the high side, but Allison moved up to block him.
The two cars collided, and both spun out, with Yarborough’s car crossing the finish line backward. After a review, it was determined that Allison had won the race, despite the collision. The finish led to a heated debate among fans and analysts, with many arguing that Allison’s move was a deliberate block, while others defended it as a common tactic in racing.
Despite the tragic and controversial moments, the race also had its share of triumphs. One of the most notable was the performance of driver Richard Petty, who finished third in the race.
Petty, who was driving for his own team, had struggled in the years leading up to the 1981 season, but his strong performance in the Daytona 500 signaled a resurgence in his career.
The race also marked the debut of driver Tim Richmond, who finished ninth and would go on to become one of the most successful drivers of the 1980s.
The race also saw some notable changes in the rules and regulations of NASCAR. One of the most significant was the introduction of a new pit road speed limit, which was set at 55 miles per hour. The speed limit was designed to improve safety and reduce the number of accidents in the pit area.
The race also saw the implementation of a new rule that required drivers to wear helmets with full face shields, which was another safety measure aimed at reducing injuries in the event of a crash.
Overall, the Daytona 500 of 1981 was a race that was marked by tragedy, controversy, and triumph.
While the death of Ronnie Peterson was a stark reminder of the dangers of auto racing, the performance of drivers like Richard Petty and Tim Richmond showcased the excitement and skill that make NASCAR one of the most popular sports in the world.
The controversial finish, meanwhile, highlighted the intense competition and tactics that are a part of every race.
Looking back on the race today, it is clear that the Daytona 500 of 1981 was a pivotal moment in the history of NASCAR. The changes in the rules and regulations that were implemented in the wake of the race helped to make the sport safer and more enjoyable for fans and drivers alike.
The legacy of Ronnie Peterson, meanwhile, serves as a reminder of the risks that drivers take every time they step into a car, and the importance of ongoing efforts to improve safety in auto racing.
In conclusion, the Daytona 500 of 1981 was a race that had a profound impact on the sport of NASCAR. Despite the tragedy and controversy that marked the event, it was also
This is a great photo of Richard Petty proudly holding his grandson Adam Petty over his head in victory lane after winning the 1981 Daytona 500 for the 7th and record setting final time. Photo provided by: Bench-Racing.blogspot.com – This post is dedicated to the memory of Adam Kyler Petty who got to enjoy the celebrations of Victory Lane. ~ TMC Note: Adam Petty would grow up and have a successful short racing career himself. God speed Adam…
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