The great NASCAR heritage came to an end in the spring of 2001. Dale Earnhardt Sr.’s influence in motorsport was contagious; by the twenty-first century, he was an invaluable asset to the racing community. After winning 76 Cup races in his distinctive ‘Intimidator’ style, he entered the 2001 Daytona 500 full of confidence.
But nobody could have predicted the tragedy that shook NASCAR that day. A terrible crash permanently disabled Dale Sr.’s outstanding abilities. A fresh recollection of that terrifying day still gives numerous fans chills.
Dale Earnhardt Sr. raced like it was just another day.
Two days before the Daytona 500, Dale Earnhardt Sr. was happy. He discussed his new life as a family guy, ultimately getting married and becoming a father on his third try. He basked in the glory of a brilliant career that included 76 victories and seven Cup crowns. So Dale Sr excitedly told Darrell Waltrip, “I’ve got it all right now, Darrell, I’ve got it all!”
Dale Earnhardt had reached the end of the road, but no one knew. The race was intense, with 49 lead changes between 14 different race leaders. With 25 laps remaining, Tony Stewart was involved in a major incident in which his car penetrated the concrete wall before going airborne. Fortunately, Stewart came out of the safe. However, later in the race, Dale Earnhardt appeared to be on the verge of another horrific disaster. And with only three laps to go, a media member snapped a fateful photo.
Leave a Reply