1976 #NASCAR Daytona 500 Throwback Thursday

My Facebook Friend, Laurie Griffith shared her photos
from the 1976 NASCAR Daytona 500

In the 1976 Daytona 500, the 18th running of the event, Richard Petty was leading on the last lap when he was passed on the backstretch by David Pearson.  Petty tried to turn under Pearson coming off the final corner, but didn't clear Pearson.

The contact caused the drivers to spin in to the grass in the infield just short of the finish line. Petty's car didn't start, but Pearson was able to keep his car running and limp over the finish line for the win.

Many fans consider this finish to be the greatest in the history of NASCAR. The end of the race was televised live on American network ABC.

 

So who was on Podium?

1st - David Pearson
2nd - Richard Petty
3rd - Benny Parsons

Laurie Griffith thanks for these wonderful memories!