CHARLOTTE – Bobby Isaac was among the greatest qualifiers in NASCAR history, setting a record with 19 pole positions in the 1969 season. His 49 career poles ranks 10th all time in NASCAR’s premier series
Isaac’s 37 career victories ranks 19th on NASCAR’s all-time list.
Isaac, who died Aug. 14, 1977 after falling ill during a Late Model race at Hickory Motor Speedway, was inducted by his son, Randy, and his former wife, Patsy, gave the acceptance speech. Sprint Cup veteran Ryan Newman introduced Isaac.
Born: Aug. 1, 1932
Hometown: Catawba, N.C.
The career: Began racing in NASCAR’s premier series in 1961. … Runner-up in the 1968 points standings to Hall of Famer David Pearson. … Finished sixth in 1969 points standings despite 17 victories and 19 poles.
The quote: “Mr. France recognized Bobby’s contribution to the success of that race and his speedway and rewarded him with a Rolex watch engraved with these words: ‘Winners never quit; quitters never win.’ It became his most prized possession.” – Patsy Isaac