The year is 1980. One year after making his full-time debut in the NASCAR Cup Series, Dale Earnhardt Sr. is on the verge of his first championship. Gritty, aggressive, and fearless behind the wheel, Earnhardt had quickly built a reputation as a rising star. But at Ontario Motor Speedway, in the final race of the season, his championship hopes teetered on the edge.
A costly pit stop had left him struggling to keep his title within reach. Just when things seemed uncertain, an unexpected ally emerged—one who wouldn’t make headlines but played a crucial role in NASCAR history. Little did anyone know, a karting legend was about to step in and unknowingly aid Earnhardt in securing his first of seven crowns.
The story of the unsung hero behind Dale Earnhardt Sr.’s first championship
Lake Speed is a bona fide legend in his own right. With six U. S Karting Championships to his name and the 1978 World Karting Championship, Speed was a dominant figure in open-wheel racing. However, in 1980, he was merely a rookie in the Cup Series, and when he was called to aid the Intimidator, he didn’t think twice.
In the 1980 NASCAR Winston Cup Series finale at Ontario Motor Speedway, Dale Earnhardt Sr. was on the brink of his first championship. After a problematic pit stop where they had to replace a lug nut saw them lose track position, Lake Speed received an unexpected radio call. Speed recalled the moment in conversation with Dale Earnhardt Jr. on the Dale Jr. Download, saying, “Dale needs you to help him.” Lake Speed had a tall task at hand. He found himself a lap down but with a notably fast car. He recalled, “I passed three cars, Cale Yarborough, Neil Bonnett, and somebody else… My car was hooked up, and I was going.” Despite being out of contention, Speed’s vehicle performance was evident as he maneuvered past seasoned competitors.
Speed then positioned himself to assist Earnhardt by providing drafting support, a tactic crucial for maintaining speed and aerodynamics on the track. While Speed himself couldn’t recall the exact dynamics, he noted, “I can’t remember if I was running in front of him and slowing down to let him draft with me or if I was running behind him helping push him.” This strategic move was crucial in assisting Earnhardt during the race’s final laps as he worked his way up the grid.
The collaboration between Speed and Earnhardt during the race’s final laps showcased the strategic alliances that can form in motorsports, even among competitors. This act of sportsmanship contributed to Earnhardt securing a fifth-place finish in the race. Finally, when Dale Earnhardt Jr. asked whether the behind-the-scenes story was real or not, Speed stood by his story. He confidently stated, “I don’t make up stuff,” evoking a chuckle from Dale Jr., who had never heard the story but found it entirely believable.
This was the first of seven championships for Earnhardt, and it marked the first time that a driver had won Rookie of the Year honors and the championship in consecutive seasons. He finished the season 19 points ahead of Cale Yarborough. While Benny Parsons clinched the race victory, it was Earnhardt’s consistent performance throughout the season, bolstered by timely support from peers like Lake Speed, that paved the way for his championship success.
An underrated talent who left his mark on NASCAR
Lake Speed’s NASCAR career may not have been filled with NASCAR championships, but his talent was undeniable. A former karting world champion, Speed made his way into stock car racing in the late 1970s, competing against legends like Dale Earnhardt and Richard Petty. His adaptability and persistence helped him carve out a respectable career despite racing for under-funded teams.
One of Speed’s most notable achievements came in 1988 when he secured his lone Cup Series victory at Darlington Raceway. Driving for RahMoc Enterprises, he dominated the field, leading 178 of 367 laps to win the TranSouth 500. The victory was a testament to his skill and determination, proving he could compete with the best when given the right equipment.
Beyond his Darlington triumph, Speed earned 75 top-10 finishes in his Cup Series career, often outperforming expectations. He was particularly strong on intermediate tracks, where his smooth driving style allowed him to conserve tires better than many of his rivals. His ability to adapt made him a respected competitor, even if he never had the consistent resources of top-tier teams.
Off the track, Speed was known for his deep faith and sportsmanship. He was one of the few drivers in NASCAR history who openly prioritized his Christian beliefs over his racing career, eventually stepping away from the sport to focus on his faith. His integrity and professionalism left a lasting impression on those who raced alongside him.
Though often overlooked in discussions of NASCAR’s greatest drivers, Lake Speed’s contributions to the sport were significant. His role in Dale Earnhardt’s 1980 championship run, his underdog victory at Darlington, and his reputation as a clean and competitive racer ensure that his legacy remains intact.
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