Dale's Day at Daytona: that time when Earnhardt won the 500
Updated: Oct 25
It's Daytona 500 week, and I can't help but think back to that day 28 years ago when the inevitable finally happened. Earnhardt won the 500 on NASCAR's biggest stage!
The Long Road to Victory
After 19 tries at victory in the Daytona 500, NASCAR icon Dale Earnhardt finally took the trophy in the 1998 version of the event.
Up until that February day in '98, it seemed that The Intimidator had tried every option to come up short in winning NASCAR's biggest race.
In 1986, he ran short of gas and had to duck in for a top-off. That allowed Geoff Bodine to claim the win after dueling with Earnhardt all day.
In 1990, a cut tire on the last lap gave the win to Derrike Cope. A 1991 back straightaway seagull strike knocked a hole in the front of the Goodwrench Chevy. That ruined the Man in Black's chances on that day.
But on his 20th attempt, it all came together for Earnhardt. He beat Bobby Labonte, Jeremy Mayfield, Ken Schrader, and Rusty Wallace to the line. He took the white flag and yellow flag together, finally sealing his first, and what ended up being his only win in the Great American Race.
A Moment to Remember
From my perch in the Robert's Tower photo stand, I watched as virtually every crew member from every team on pit road greeted Earnhardt on his way to victory lane. After an impromptu set of donuts in the tri-oval grass, the Black #3 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet headed to the winner's circle. It was one of the most highly anticipated celebrations in the race's long history.
The win ended a 59-race victory drought for Earnhardt. It was his only victory in 1998.
The Legacy of Earnhardt
The '98 500 was one of the most memorable Daytona 500s I ever photographed. It reinforced my impression of Dale Earnhardt as a near-mythical figure in the history of stock car racing.
The thrill of that day still resonates. It was a moment that defined a career and left an indelible mark on NASCAR history.
Conclusion
The Daytona 500 is more than just a race. It's a celebration of speed, skill, and the relentless pursuit of victory. For fans and drivers alike, it represents the pinnacle of motorsport.
As I look back, I can't help but feel grateful to have witnessed such an iconic moment. Dale Earnhardt's legacy continues to inspire, and his triumph in 1998 remains a highlight in the annals of racing history.
Photo Stories at BCPIX.com
Original photography and firsthand visual history by Brian Cleary.
All images © Brian Cleary. Editorial licensing available.
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