Today would be Dale Earnhardt Sr.’s 62nd birthday, if he had lived through the horrific crash that took his life at the 2001 Daytona 500. We at ChevyHardcore would like to take this moment to commemorate the incredible racing career of one of the most colorful and prolific automotive sporting drivers in the history of motor racing. The video above, also found on Jalopnik.com, of his entry into Victory Lane at the 1998 Daytona 500 (his only Daytona 500 win) and the ensuing celebration, illustrates the amazing level of popularity the Chevy car driver had during his lifetime and his outstanding competitive career.

Born on April 29, 1951, in Kannapolis, North Carolina, Earnhardt was not only a successful driver, but a team owner in the NASCAR stock car racing circuit. Earnhardt’s career began in 1975 when he drove in the World 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. It was known as the Winston Cup Series then, and is now called the Sprint Cut Series of racing. He is considered one of the most competitive NASCAR drivers, having won a total of 76 victories during his career, including the 1998 Daytona 500.

Earnhardt scored seven championships and is tied for that record with Richard Petty. The nickname “The Intimidator” was given to Earnhardt because of his aggressive driving style. He has been inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame. We are proud to say Earnhardt claimed many of these wins driving a Chevy. All hail Dale!