Racing on the Beach 1951

In 1951, Speedweek’s first race was limited to less powerful Sportsmen’s cars in an effort to reduce speeds. Many of the 91 starting Sportsmen’s cars were detuned modifieds without dual carburetors and racing heads. During the race, a racer flipped into the dune area and smashed 4 spectators’ cars. Gober Sosebee won after the cars of Buck Baker and Joe Wolf broke. In the Grand National race, Tim Flock finished second after pitting and borrowing cars from his brother Fonty’s crew. Marshall Teague won in a Hudson and became the first stock car racer to receive a factory deal that included a new personal car, a salary, and an inside line on parts.

Daytona Beach, Florida · United States