Historical Highlights of the Daytona 500
The 62nd running of the Daytona 500 took place on February 16 and 17, 2020, concluding on Monday due to a rain delay. Denny Hamlin clinched victory in this prestigious NASCAR event, finishing just 0.014 seconds ahead of his closest rival, Ryan Blaney. This narrow margin marked one of the closest finishes in the race’s storied history.
Remarkably, the Daytona 500 has a rich history, dating back to its inaugural race in 1959. During that race, Lee Petty (car No. 42) triumphed in a photo finish, overcoming Johnny Beauchamp (car No. 73). The two racers had been fiercely contending for the lead, particularly in the last 30 laps, ultimately crossing the finish line virtually side by side.
Following the finish, controversy erupted. Initially, Beauchamp was declared the unofficial winner, and he was guided to Victory Lane for the celebration. However, Petty and his team contested the decision, asserting that he had crossed the finish line first. After extensive review of newsreels and photographs over three days, NASCAR President Bill France, Sr. ultimately declared Petty the official winner. The intense competition displayed during this race has left a lasting legacy in NASCAR history.
Notably, the last-lap photo captured by Ray Brock, a photographer for HOT ROD, demonstrates just how close the finish was, with third-place driver Joe Weatherly (car No. 48) being a lap down. Lee Petty enjoyed an illustrious career, competing for 16 seasons in NASCAR and securing an impressive 54 wins. In contrast, Beauchamp’s career spanned five seasons, with two victories under his belt.
Denny Hamlin’s 2020 Victory
Denny Hamlin’s victory in the 2020 Daytona 500 mirrored these historic finishes with similar intensity:
These examples illustrate the thrilling nature of the Daytona 500, showcasing both the competitive spirit and the dramatic moments that define NASCAR racing. As fans, we are left to appreciate the legends who have shaped this iconic event, ensuring that its history remains vibrant for generations to come.
