In a groundbreaking decision that rewrites NASCAR history, the sanctioning body has officially credited NASCAR Hall of Famer Bobby Allison with his 85th Cup Series victory, elevating him to fourth on the all-time wins list. The belated recognition comes more than five decades after Allison took the checkered flag at Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, on August 6, 1971.
A Long-Awaited Triumph
The race in question, the Meyers Brothers Memorial, featured a mix of Grand National (now Cup Series) and Grand American cars. Allison, competing in both series at the time, chose to drive his Grand American Ford and dominated the event, leading 138 of the 200 laps. Despite celebrating in Victory Lane, the win never counted toward his official Cup Series tally – until now.
NASCAR Chairman and CEO Jim France personally visited the 86-year-old Allison to deliver the news and present him with a commemorative plaque. “For 53 years, the Myers Brothers Memorial was the only race run by NASCAR that did not have an official winner,” France stated. “As we began preparations for the upcoming Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium, the topic of that August 6, 1971, race returned to the forefront. We felt it was the right thing to officially recognize Bobby’s win and honor him as an 85-time NASCAR Cup Series winner.”
Rewriting the Record Books
The decision to credit Allison with the victory has significant implications for NASCAR’s record books. With 85 wins, Allison now sits fourth on the all-time list, trailing only fellow NASCAR Hall of Famers:
- Richard Petty (200 wins)
- David Pearson (105 wins)
- Jeff Gordon (93 wins)
The recognition of Allison’s 85th win cements his status as one of the greatest drivers in NASCAR history. A five-time series champion and three-time winner of the prestigious Daytona 500, Allison’s contributions to the sport are immeasurable.
A Legacy Honored
Bobby Allison’s induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2011 acknowledged his tremendous impact on the sport. However, the addition of his 85th win serves as a further testament to his skill, determination, and enduring legacy.
“We are grateful for Bobby’s lifetime contributions to NASCAR,” Jim France emphasized.
The decision to credit Allison with the long-overdue victory is not only a personal triumph for the legendary driver but also a significant moment for NASCAR as a whole. It demonstrates the organization’s commitment to preserving its rich history and honoring the achievements of its most iconic figures.
A Timeless Tale of Perseverance
Bobby Allison’s story is one of unwavering dedication and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His journey from humble beginnings to NASCAR stardom is a testament to the power of hard work and an unyielding passion for racing.
The recognition of his 85th win, more than half a century after the fact, serves as a poignant reminder that true greatness knows no expiration date. Allison’s legacy transcends time, and this long-awaited acknowledgment only serves to burnish his already legendary status.
A Moment for the Ages
As NASCAR prepares for the upcoming Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium, the significance of Bobby Allison’s victory at the very same track 53 years ago takes on new meaning. The decision to honor his achievement not only sets the stage for an emotionally charged event but also serves as a bridge between NASCAR’s storied past and its promising future.
The racing world will undoubtedly celebrate this momentous occasion, as fans, drivers, and officials alike pay tribute to one of the sport’s true icons. Bobby Allison’s 85th win is more than just a statistic; it is a symbol of NASCAR’s enduring spirit and a testament to the indelible mark he has left on the sport.
In the end, this long-overdue recognition serves as a reminder that the greatness of legends like Bobby Allison is timeless. His story will continue to inspire generations of racers, forever etched in the annals of NASCAR history as a shining example of what can be achieved through unwavering dedication and an unquenchable thirst for victory.
