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The Virginia Museum of Transportation recently hosted a special event honoring Curtis Turner, a local NASCAR icon, in celebration of his 100th birthday. The event, titled "Curtis 100," showcased NASCAR cars, memorabilia, special exhibits, and screenings of a documentary about Turner, along with his induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2016.
Among the exhibits were paintings by Margaret Sue Turner Wright, Curtis Turner’s daughter, who expressed her love for painting and storytelling about her father's racing legacy: “There are different cars that he drove, and I love to paint, so this is a great match. I love to tell the story about Daddy and what he did in racing.”
Born in Floyd, Virginia, Turner was a founding member of NASCAR. His family later relocated to Roanoke and then to Charlotte, where he played a pivotal role in building the Charlotte Motor Speedway.
Early Life and Racing Career
Curtis Turner was born on April 12, 1924, and began his racing career in the 1940s while also working as a timber broker. He initially participated in unofficial races before officially joining NASCAR in 1949, competing in the inaugural Strictly Stock race at Charlotte Speedway. Despite finishing last in his first race, Turner quickly emerged as a strong contender, securing his first official NASCAR victory shortly afterward.
Notable Achievements in NASCAR
Turner’s NASCAR career is marked by several significant achievements:
Race Wins: He recorded 17 victories in the NASCAR Grand National Division and 38 wins in the Convertible Division, with a remarkable 22 wins in 1956 alone.
Historic Performances: Turner was the first driver to win two consecutive NASCAR races while leading every lap and claimed the first victory at Rockingham Speedway after returning from a four-year ban due to union activities in 1965.
Contributions to the Sport: He was instrumental in the construction of the Charlotte Motor Speedway, a landmark achievement for NASCAR.
Challenges and Controversies
Turner's career faced its share of challenges. In 1961, he sought to establish a drivers' union with backing from the Teamsters Union, resulting in a lifetime ban from NASCAR issued by founder Bill France Sr. This ban lasted until 1965, when Turner made a successful return to racing. Known for his flamboyant lifestyle, his reputation for partying often eclipsed his racing successes, adding to his legendary status among fans.
Legacy
Curtis Turner's life ended tragically in a plane crash on October 4, 1970, at the age of 46. He was traveling with professional golfer Clarence King when their aircraft crashed into a mountainside in Pennsylvania. Despite his untimely death, Turner’s impact on NASCAR endures. He has been inducted into multiple halls of fame, including the Motorsports Hall of Fame and the NASCAR Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as one of the sport's greatest drivers. His story remains a testament to his talent and determination in the world of stock car racing.
