Richard Petty - NASCAR

Richard Petty is an American former NASCAR driver and one of the most successful and recognizable figures in stock car racing history. Born July 2, 1937, in Level Cross, North Carolina, he became known worldwide as "The King." Petty competed in NASCAR's top series from 1958 through 1992 and drove the famous No. 43 car for most of his career. Petty won a record 200 NASCAR Cup Series races and seven Cup championships, accomplishments that helped establish him as one of motorsports' greatest legends. He also won the Daytona 500 a record seven times and earned 123 pole positions during his career. His rivalry with other NASCAR stars and his distinctive cowboy hat, sunglasses, and friendly relationship with racing fans made him an enduring sports celebrity. Petty was inducted into the inaugural class of the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2010. Following his retirement from driving, he remained active in NASCAR as a team owner, spokesman, and ambassador for the sport. Richard Petty autographs and racing memorabilia are especially collectible among NASCAR and motorsports enthusiasts because of his record-setting career, the iconic No. 43 car, and his status as "The King" of NASCAR.