Bobby Allison, a NASCAR legend, passed away at the age of 86 at his home in Mooresville, North Carolina. Despite his great racing achievements, Allison enjoyed spending peaceful days fishing off the dock in his backyard by Lake Norman. He began his racing career as a teen in small-town events in Florida, eventually forming “The Alabama Gang” with his brother Donnie and friend Charles “Red” Farmer.
Allison’s racing career spanned from the ’50s to his retirement in 1988, making 718 race starts and claiming 85 victories, including three Daytona 500 wins. Although he only won one championship in 1983, Allison was known for his fearless driving in various racing machines, from NASCAR to Indy cars. His fiery temper and constant team changes may have hindered his long-term success, but his passion for racing never wavered.
Throughout his career, Allison experienced tragic moments, including the loss of friends in fatal crashes and his own near-death experiences. Despite facing personal tragedies, such as the deaths of his sons Davey and Clifford in racing accidents, Allison remained an ambassador for the sport, advocating for safety measures and sharing stories of his on-track antics with a dry wit.
In his later years, Allison focused on his love for fishing and kept a collection of racing memorabilia, reminiscing about his past victories. Despite the challenges he faced, Allison’s legacy in NASCAR and the racing community remains strong. His impact on the sport and his enduring passion for racing will always be remembered by fans and fellow drivers alike.
