There are many families who have been in NASCAR for a long time. There are two families, however, that stand out in it's history as having been influential in the sport.
The Frances and the Pettys are two families that have been a part of racing for several generations. They have played very different roles within the sport but have both helped it become what it is today.
"Big Bill" France, Sr. formed NASCAR in 1948. He ran a gas station, raced cars on the side, and dreamt of making racing a true sport with rules, regulations, and a governing body. Bill, Sr. successfully ran the nation's largest stock car association until he handed over the reigns to his son, Bill France, Jr., in 1972.
Bill, Jr. made the North American Stock Car Association into a national pastime with sound business decisions and a little luck. Brian France, third generation, took over the helm in 2003 and the sport has grown by leaps and bounds since then.
Brian has made some major changes, the Chase for the Cup being the most daring change, but all of the changes have served only to increase racing's popularity and widen its fan base. And the sport's popularity doesn't only extend to watching the races. People are buying NASCAR collectibles, NASCAR diecast, and NASCAR merchandise like never before.
The Petty dynasty began with Lee Petty who raced in the very first race ever organized by Bill France, Sr. It was actually his son, Richard "The King" Petty, who has made the Petty family well known to the public.
Richard Petty impresses fans with his gentle manner and his devotion to his family. Richard's son Kyle has proven himself on the track and is now the CEO of Petty Enterprises.
The careers and lives of Lee, Richard, and Kyle inspired Kyle's son Adam to follow in their footsteps. Adam Petty was a promising up and coming driver but in 2000, during a practice run, his car crashed into a wall and he was killed. Adam's legacy lives on through the charitable foundations created by his family in his memory.
The Pettys are loyal to NASCAR. Not only has it provided the Pettys with financial success but careers that they love and are proud of.
There are many more families who have impacted racing in their own ways. The France's and the Petty's longstanding presence in the sport has lent constancy and strength throughout the years. We hope these two families are around for generations to come.
Written by: David Stargel
Nascar Merchandise
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NASCAR Licensed Tony Stewart #20 Breakaway Cat/Kitten Collar, 3/8"
Sale Price: $6.99  |
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DescriptionThe Breakaway cat buckle is designed to release when a cat's collar gets caught, allowing it to slip free. |
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NFL Dallas Cowboys Melamine Serving Tray
Sale Price: $19.99 |
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DescriptionShow your team spirit with this durable melamine serving tray covered with NFL team logo art with bold graphics. Measures 22 x 12.5 x 3.5 inches. |
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McFarlane Toys MLB Sports Picks Action Figure COLLECTOR'S EDITION 756th Home Run Barry Bonds
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DescriptionMcFARLANE BARRY BONDS COMMEMORATIVE 756 HOME RUN FIGURE |
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Richard Petty's Audio Scrapbook
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DescriptionRelive the history of NASCAR® through the eyes of Richard Petty with this Richard Petty's Audio Scrapbook from Audio Book Publishing. In this 4-CD set, Richard "The King" Petty sits down with Hall of Fame announcer Barney Hall and long-time crew chief Dale Inman to recount tales of 60 years of racing history... |
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New NASCAR Wallpaper Wall Border Jimmie Johnson 48
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DescriptionJimmie Johnson 48 Officially licensed NASCAR self adhesive wallpaper border. Jimmie Johnson 48 wall paper border measures 5 inches x 15 feet. Peel & Stick Technology will adhere to any smooth surface. Washable and strippable... |
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Jeff Gordon Hard Hat
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DescriptionIt's the real thing! The Stadium Hard Hat is adjustable for head sizes 6.5 to 8. They meet OSHA requirements, meets or exceeds ANSI Z89.1-1986 Class A & B standards, and ANSI Z89.1-1997 Class G & E standards... |
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NFL Tool Belt 31170 Carolina Panthers
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DescriptionShow off your team spirit while making repairs with this officially licensed Fantasia NFL(r) team tool belt. The 600D polyester tool belt features an adjustable quick-release buckle, 4 large nail pockets, a metal hammer loop, a tape measure holder and 2 pen/pencil/screwdriver organizers... |
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Matt Kenseth #17 NASCAR Diamond Plate Beverage Holder
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DescriptionThis #17 Matt Kenseth NASCAR stainless steel diamond plate beverage holder will keep that cold drink cold. Holds one 12 oz drink. |
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Nascar Lighter - Dale Jr. Slim Scroll (Dale Earnhardt Jr.) - Zippo 24234, Zippo Lighters Motorsports
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Description- Nascar Lighter - Dale Jr. Slim Scroll (Dale Earnhardt Jr.) by Zippo, model 24234, UPC 041689242343, in Zippo Lighters Motorsports, Weight = 0.1 lbs. |
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Tony Stewart 6 Pack of Pencils
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DescriptionOfficially licensed wooden pencil, 7 x 0.25 inch diameter. Each pencil has the Tony Stewart name, team logo and eraser. Packaged in 6-packs. Made in USA.NOTE: Beware of unscrupulous merchants charging lofty shipping charges. |
