Childhood and Education Journey of Tony Stewart in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 14, 2026

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Tony Stewart. From birth to education, explore key events.

Anthony Wayne "Tony" Stewart, known as "Smoke," is a prominent American auto racing driver and former co-owner of Stewart-Haas Racing in NASCAR. A four-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, he secured two titles as a driver and two as an owner, one of which he was the driver himself. Currently, Stewart competes in the NHRA Top Fuel class for Tony Stewart Racing and part-time in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series for Kaulig Racing.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

May 20, 1971: Birth of Anthony Wayne Stewart

On May 20, 1971, Anthony Wayne Stewart, also known as "Smoke", was born. He later became a professional auto racing driver and NASCAR team co-owner.

1979: First Go Kart

In 1979, Tony Stewart got his first competitive go kart in Westport, Indiana.

1998: USAC Midget Events and "Smoke" Nickname

In 1998, Tony Stewart continued racing in midget events, finishing thirteenth and eleventh in the USAC national points, and winning the Copper Classic both years. He had earned the nickname "Smoke" before then, due to slipping his right rear tire during dirt races and blowing his engine during his 1997 championship run.

November 2004: Eldora Speedway Ownership

In November 2004, Tony Stewart became the owner of Eldora Speedway, a half-mile dirt track in New Weston, Ohio, known as "Auto Racing's Showcase Since 1954." He began racing there in 1991 and continued to participate in special events.

August 5, 2013: Leg Injury at Southern Iowa Speedway

On August 5, 2013, while leading a sprint car race at Southern Iowa Speedway, Tony Stewart was involved in a multi-car crash, resulting in a broken tibia and fibula in his right leg after his car collided with a spun-out lapped car. He was hospitalized and underwent surgery.

August 8, 2013: Second Surgery on Broken Leg

On August 8, 2013, Tony Stewart underwent a second surgery to repair his broken leg, which involved the insertion of a metal rod into his tibia.

August 9, 2014: Kevin Ward Jr. Incident at Canandaigua

On August 9, 2014, during a sprint car race at Canandaigua Motorsports Park, Tony Stewart's car struck Kevin Ward Jr. after Ward exited his vehicle and walked onto the track following an earlier incident, resulting in Ward's death due to massive blunt trauma.

September 24, 2014: No Indictment in Ward Case

On September 24, 2014, a grand jury declined to indict Tony Stewart on charges related to the death of Kevin Ward Jr., with the District Attorney noting that videos showed no aberrational driving by Stewart and that Ward was under the influence of cannabis.