Go To The Head Of The Class

The inaugural class of NASCAR's newly-opened Hall of Fame were inducted today in Charlotte, N.C. in a moving three-hour ceremony.  Scores of NASCAR stars, past and present, were on hand to witness the occasion.  There was laughter, tears, memories, and stories for everyone.  The Class of 2010 featured:

Bill France, Sr.
Bill France, Jr.
Richard Petty
Junior Johnson
Dale Earnhardt, Sr.

It was really nice to see The King and Kyle Petty put aside their differences for the occasion.  Family is important to Kyle, and I can think of no one more fitting to introduce The King, in his rightful place in this shrine.  As usual, The King signed about a million autographs and gave credit to everyone in his life for his success, except himself.  Typical, honest, and a great example for future inductees to follow.

But the story of the day, belonged to Dale Earnhardt, Jr.  He told of the first time he faced Cup-like competition, racing against his Father in Japan:

"I moved up in front of him on the track.  I only needed about two inches to clear him, and I misjudged it.  Dad then pushed me all the way down the front stretch, with my rear tires off the ground.  It was then, that I met the Intimidator."  (Raucous laughter here)  "He let me go, but I spent the rest of the day running from him like I'd had an "F" on my report card."







I still disagree with Teresa Earnhardt, being a part of this.  She all but destroyed what Dale Sr. built for his children.  But it was really cool to see all of Dale Sr.'s kids, speak on his behalf.  The France family was well-represented by Lisa France Kennedy and Brian France.  You could tell that they were very honored and moved to be there.

Junior Johnson, was well, Junior Johnson.  He told old war stories and was  as much comic as he was deserving Stock Car Legend.

So, as Mike Joy said, "The Mount Rushmore" of NASCAR, is finally in it's place.  They are all very deserving, and make me proud to call myself a NASCAR Fan.

Congratulations to The Class of 2010 and their families.  But above all, Thank You, for all that you did and continue to do.

Credit Shout Out:  Photo and Video courtesy of NASCAR.com