History of Richard Petty in Timeline

Richard Petty, "The King," is a legendary NASCAR driver who raced from 1958-1992. He holds the record for most Cup Series championships (7, tied with Dale Earnhardt and Jimmie Johnson) and race wins (200). Petty also boasts a record seven Daytona 500 victories and an unparalleled 27 wins in a single season (1967). Driving primarily the No. 43 for Petty Enterprises, he's considered one of the sport's all-time greats and a member of the famous Petty racing family.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

July 2, 1937: Richard Petty's Birth

On July 2, 1937, Richard Lee Petty, later nicknamed "the King," was born. He would become a famous stock car racing driver.

Others born on this day/year

1955: High School Graduation

In 1955, Richard Petty graduated from Randleman High School, after which he took a business course at Greensboro Junior College and started working for his father's racing company.

July 18, 1958: First NASCAR Race

On July 18, 1958, Richard Petty began his NASCAR career at CNE Stadium in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, just sixteen days after his 21st birthday.

1958: Start of NASCAR Career

In 1958, Richard Petty began his career as a stock car racing driver in the NASCAR Grand National Series (now the NASCAR Cup Series).

1958: Marriage to Lynda Owens

In 1958, Richard Petty married Lynda Owens, who would later pass away from cancer.

1959: NASCAR Rookie of the Year

In 1959, Richard Petty was named NASCAR Rookie of the Year after achieving nine top-ten finishes, including six top-five finishes.

1959: Father Won First Daytona 500

In 1959, Richard Petty's father, Lee Petty, won the first Daytona 500 and was also a three-time NASCAR champion.

1960: Second in NASCAR Points Race

In 1960, Richard Petty finished second in the NASCAR Grand National Points Race and secured his first career win at the Charlotte Fairgrounds Speedway.

1963: Breakout Year

1963 marked a breakout year for Richard Petty, as he achieved victories at tracks such as Martinsville and Bridgehampton.

1964: First Daytona 500 Win

In 1964, Richard Petty won his first Daytona 500 driving a Plymouth with a Hemi engine. He led 184 of 200 laps, won nine races, earned over $114,000, and claimed his first Grand National championship.

February 28, 1965: Drag Racing Accident

On February 28, 1965, Richard Petty crashed his Hemi Barracuda drag racer at Southeastern Dragway in Dallas, Georgia, resulting in the death of an eight-year-old boy and injuries to seven others. This event led to lawsuits against Petty, his father, and Chrysler Corporation.

February 27, 1966: Second Daytona 500 Win

On February 27, 1966, Richard Petty won his second Daytona 500 after overcoming a two-lap deficit. The race was stopped early due to a thunderstorm, making him the first driver to win the event twice.

October 1, 1967: Ten Consecutive Wins

Between August 12 and October 1, 1967, Richard Petty won a record ten consecutive races, contributing to his dominant season.

1967: Record-Breaking Season

In 1967, Richard Petty had a record-breaking season, winning 27 races, including the Daytona 500, and securing his second Grand National Championship.

1968: Occoneechee Speedway Victory

In 1968, Richard Petty won sixteen races, including the last-ever race held at Occoneechee Speedway.

1969: Switch to Ford

In 1969, Richard Petty switched to Ford due to concerns about the competitiveness of Plymouth on super-speedways. He won ten races and finished second in points.

1970: Return to Plymouth

In 1970, Richard Petty returned to Plymouth and won in the new Plymouth Superbird.

1970: Win at Middle Georgia Raceway

In 1970, despite being ill, Richard Petty won a race at Middle Georgia Raceway, marking one of his four career wins at that track.

February 14, 1971: Third Daytona 500 Win

On February 14, 1971, Richard Petty won his third Daytona 500, driving a Plymouth Road Runner, and became the first driver to win the race three times. He also won twenty more races and claimed his third Grand National Championship.

1971: Consecutive Starts Record

In 1971, Richard Petty began a record of 513 consecutive starts in NASCAR races, which lasted until 1989.

1972: Modern NASCAR Record

In 1972, Richard Petty set the modern NASCAR record for victories in a season with 13.

1972: STP Sponsorship Begins

In 1972, STP began a 28-year sponsorship arrangement with Richard Petty, which led to the iconic STP orange/"Petty blue" paint scheme and his fourth NASCAR Cup Series championship.

February 18, 1973: Fourth Daytona 500 Win

On February 18, 1973, Richard Petty won his fourth Daytona 500 in a Dodge Charger after Buddy Baker's engine failed near the end of the race.

1973: Induction into North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame

In 1973, Richard Petty was inducted into the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame, recognizing his contributions to sports in the state.

1974: Secondhand Chevrolet Monte Carlo

In 1974, Richard Petty raced a secondhand Chevrolet Monte Carlo at the fall race at Michigan.

1975: Pit Crew Member Killed in Accident

In 1975, Lynda Petty's brother, Randy Owens, a member of Petty's pit crew, was killed at age 19 during a pit road accident when a water tank exploded during the Winston 500.

1975: World 600 Win

In 1975, Richard Petty won the World 600 for the first time and secured thirteen victories, leading to his sixth Winston Cup. This was also a modern-era record that was later tied by Jeff Gordon.

1976: Famous Daytona 500 Finish

In 1976, Richard Petty was involved in a famous finish at the Daytona 500, where a last-lap collision with David Pearson led to Pearson winning the race while Petty finished second.

1977: End of Dodge Charger Era

By the end of 1977, Richard Petty stopped using the Dodge Charger body style he had been racing since 1973.

1978: Winless Season and Switch to Chevrolet

In 1978, Richard Petty didn't secure any wins during the season, leading him to switch from Dodge to a secondhand 1974 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, marking the end of his long-time relationship with Chrysler.

1978: Ulcer Surgery

In 1978, Richard Petty underwent ulcer surgery, during which 40 percent of his stomach was removed.

1978: Elected to Randolph County Commission

In 1978, Richard Petty was elected to the Randolph County Commission as a Republican, marking his entry into local politics.

1979: Seventh NASCAR Championship

In 1979, Richard Petty won his seventh and final NASCAR championship after winning the Daytona 500 in an Oldsmobile and additional races in a Chevrolet.

1979: Sixth Daytona 500 Win

In 1979, Richard Petty won his sixth Daytona 500 after a 45-race drought. This race was the first to be televised live flag-to-flag and is known for a fistfight between competitors.

1980: Endorsed John Connally for Republican Presidential Nomination

In 1980, Richard Petty endorsed John Connally for the Republican nomination for president, citing Connally's personality and experience in Washington.

January 1981: Petty Tests Dodge Mirada

In January 1981, Richard Petty tested the 1981 Dodge Mirada at Daytona, but the car's speed was significantly slower than GM and Ford cars. Petty decided to use a Buick Regal for the Daytona 500, abandoning his return to Dodge due to the Mirada's lack of competitiveness.

January 17, 1981: Fans gather to watch Mirada testing

On January 17, 1981, approximately 15,000 fans gathered at Daytona Speedway to observe Richard Petty testing the 1981 Dodge Mirada. The fans wanted to see Petty put the Dodge through its paces.

1981: Daytona 500 Win

In 1981, Richard Petty won another Daytona 500, further cementing his legacy.

1982: Indianapolis 500 win with Petty Blue scheme

In 1982, Gordon Johncock won the Indianapolis 500, driving a car with a primarily "Petty Blue" scheme, which had been part of STP's motorsport paint schemes since 1972.

1982: Re-elected to Randolph County Commission

In 1982, Richard Petty was re-elected to the Randolph County Commission, continuing his service in local government.

October 1983: Controversial Win at Charlotte

In October 1983, Richard Petty had a controversial win at Charlotte, recognized by NASCAR as his 198th win. Following this victory, Petty left the race team founded by his father for the 1984 season.

May 20, 1984: Petty wins Budweiser 500

On May 20, 1984, Richard Petty won the Budweiser 500 at Dover International Speedway. This win would be recognized as his two-hundredth Cup class win under modern regulations, considering the Winston-Salem class win.

July 4, 1984: Petty Wins Firecracker 400

On July 4, 1984, Richard Petty won the Firecracker 400 at Daytona International Speedway, marking his officially recognized 200th and final victory. President Ronald Reagan attended the race and celebrated with Petty and his family.

1986: Re-elected to Randolph County Commission

In 1986, Richard Petty was re-elected to the Randolph County Commission, marking another term in local politics.

1989: Sole Stock Car Representative in Motorsports Hall of Fame of America

In 1989, Richard Petty was the sole stock car representative in the first class inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, highlighting his exceptional contributions to stock car racing.

1989: End of Consecutive Starts Record

In 1989, Richard Petty's record of 513 consecutive starts in NASCAR races came to an end.

1990: Re-elected to Randolph County Commission

In 1990, Richard Petty was re-elected to the Randolph County Commission, extending his tenure to 16 years of service.

October 1, 1991: Petty Announces Retirement

On October 1, 1991, Richard Petty announced his retirement, set to take place after the 1992 season. He planned to run the entire season, participating in various special events as part of his Fan Appreciation Tour.

1992: Parade Lap During Retirement Tour

During his 1992 retirement tour, Richard Petty took a parade lap before every race with the exception of the Southern 500.

1992: Retirement from NASCAR

In 1992, Richard Petty retired from racing in the NASCAR Winston Cup Series, concluding a remarkable career.

1992: Awarded Medal of Freedom

In 1992, Richard Petty was awarded the Medal of Freedom by President George Bush, marking the first time a motorsports athlete received this civilian honor from the United States.

1992: Close Points Margin

In 1992, Richard Petty's 1979 championship was the closest points margin in NASCAR history until 1992.

1992: Statue Erected in Randleman, North Carolina

In 1992, a statue of Richard Petty was erected in Randleman, North Carolina, honoring his legacy and contributions to the sport.

1993: Formed Political Action Committee

In 1993, Richard Petty formed a political action committee to support Republican candidates.

1995: Prostate Cancer Surgery

In 1995, Richard Petty successfully underwent surgery for prostate cancer.

1996: Republican Nominee for North Carolina Secretary of State Election

In 1996, Richard Petty was the Republican nominee in the North Carolina Secretary of State election, but was defeated by Elaine Marshall.

1997: Induction into International Motorsports Hall of Fame and North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame

In 1997, Richard Petty was inducted into both the International Motorsports Hall of Fame and became the first person inducted into the North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame, marking significant recognition of his career achievements.

1997: Opening of Richard Petty Driving Experience in Walt Disney World

In 1997, the Richard Petty Driving Experience was opened in Walt Disney World, offering the public a chance to drive stock cars at Walt Disney World Speedway.

1998: Jeff Gordon ties Petty

In 1998, Jeff Gordon matched Richard Petty's modern NASCAR record of 13 victories in a season.

1998: Induction into National Motorsports Press Association Hall of Fame and Named One of NASCAR's 50 Greatest Drivers

In 1998, Richard Petty was inducted into the National Motorsports Press Association Hall of Fame. Also in 1998, he was honored as one of NASCAR's 50 Greatest Drivers, further solidifying his legendary status in the sport.

May 12, 2000: Death of Grandson Adam Petty

On May 12, 2000, Richard Petty's grandson, Adam Petty, was killed in a practice crash at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, five weeks after the death of Lee Petty.

2002: Induction into Automotive Hall of Fame

In 2002, Richard Petty was inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame, recognizing his broader impact on the automotive industry.

2003: Secretary's Award from Department of Veterans Affairs

In 2003, Richard Petty was honored by The Department of Veterans Affairs being given the Secretary’s Award for his contributions to the organization.

2006: Voice Role in Pixar's Cars

In 2006, Richard Petty and his wife Lynda had voice roles in the Pixar film Cars. Petty voiced Strip "The King" Weathers, a character based partially on himself.

2008: Founded Petty Family Foundation

In 2008, Richard Petty and his family founded the Petty Family Foundation, which supports children, veterans, and education in North Carolina.

2008: Played Himself in the Film 'Swing Vote'

In 2008, Richard Petty played himself in the film "Swing Vote", where he allowed the protagonist to briefly drive his famous "43" Plymouth.

Loading Video...

2010: Inaugural Inductee into NASCAR Hall of Fame

In 2010, Richard Petty was an inaugural inductee into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, cementing his place as one of the sport's most important figures.

2010: Induction into NASCAR Hall of Fame

In 2010, Richard Petty was inducted into the inaugural class of the NASCAR Hall of Fame, recognizing his accomplishments and contributions to the sport.

May 2011: Grand Marshal for the 2011 STP 400

In May 2011, Richard Petty was chosen to be the Grand Marshal for the 2011 STP 400 of the Sprint Cup Series.

2012: Endorsed Mitt Romney

In 2012, Richard Petty endorsed Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney.

2013: Driver Wins 500th Race Start

In 2013, Matt Kenseth joined Richard Petty as the only drivers to win in their 500th race start.

March 2014: Richard Petty Museum Moved

In March 2014, the Richard Petty Museum moved back to its original location in Level Cross, North Carolina.

March 25, 2014: Death of Wife Lynda Owens

On March 25, 2014, Richard Petty's wife, Lynda Owens, died of cancer at her home in Level Cross, North Carolina at the age of 72.

2014: Established Lynda Petty Scholarship

In 2014, Richard Petty established the Lynda Petty Scholarship in his wife’s honor, benefiting students at Randolph Community College and high school students pursuing automotive careers.

2014: Received Gregor Grant Award and Good Guy Award

In 2014, Richard Petty received the Gregor Grant Award from the Autosport Awards and the Good Guy Award from the American Legion for his contributions to the community.

March 31, 2015: Richard Petty Day in North Carolina

On March 31, 2015, Governor Pat McCrory declared "Richard Petty" day in the state of North Carolina, honoring Petty's contributions and legacy.

2015: Cameron R. Argetsinger Award for Outstanding Contributions to Motorsports

In 2015, Richard Petty received the Cameron R. Argetsinger Award for Outstanding Contributions to Motorsports, further recognizing his significant impact on the sport.

June 2016: Appearance on Stage with Donald Trump

In June 2016, Richard Petty made an appearance on stage with Donald Trump.

2016: Induction into North Carolina Drag Racing Hall of Fame

In 2016, Richard Petty was inducted into the North Carolina Drag Racing Hall of Fame, acknowledging his influence and contributions to drag racing in addition to stock car racing.

2017: Petersen Automotive Museum Lifetime Achievement Award

In 2017, Richard Petty received the Petersen Automotive Museum Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating his enduring contributions to the automotive world.

2017: Bridge named in Petty's honor in Black Mountain, North Carolina

In 2017, a bridge in Black Mountain, North Carolina, was named in Richard Petty's honor, recognizing his contributions and legacy.

2018: NASCAR Legacy Award from The Sports Museum at TD Garden

In 2018, Richard Petty received the NASCAR legacy award from The Sports Museum at TD Garden, honoring his lasting impact on NASCAR.

2023: Named One of NASCAR's 75 Greatest Drivers

In 2023, Richard Petty was named one of NASCAR's 75 Greatest Drivers, further confirming his status as a legend in the sport.

2023: Richard Petty Tribute Park Dedicated in Randleman, North Carolina

In 2023, the Richard Petty Tribute Park in Randleman was dedicated in his honor, and a statue of Petty with his wife was unveiled, celebrating his life and career.

2025: Donated Additional Land to Victory Junction Camp

In 2025, Richard Petty donated an additional 403 acres of land to the Victory Junction Camp, furthering its mission to provide a summer camp experience for seriously ill children.