The Life And Fast Times Of NASCAR Legend Curtis Turner

When it comes to NASCAR legends, there are few names that hold as much weight as Curtis Turner. Known for his fearless driving style and entrepreneurial spirit, Turner left an indelible mark on the sport and paved the way for future generations of racers.

Born on April 12, 1924, in Floyd, Virginia, Curtis Turner's passion for speed ignited at a young age. Growing up on a small farm, he quickly developed a love for engines and mechanics. As a teenager, Turner began working as a mechanic, honing his skills and gaining valuable knowledge about racing mechanics, which would prove vital in his future endeavors.

Turner's racing career kicked off in 1946 when he competed in his first stock car race. From that day forward, he was hooked. Turner's natural talent and determination to win quickly caught the attention of NASCAR, and in 1949, he officially joined the organization as a driver.

Full Throttle: The Life and Fast Times of NASCAR Legend Curtis Turner

by Robert Edelstein(Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	886 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	384 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	281 pages
Item Weight	:	12.3 ounces
Dimensions	:	4.92 x 0.64 x 7.48 inches

FREE

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Turner blazed a trail of victories on the racetracks. He became known for his aggressive driving style, pushing the limits and capturing the checkered flag more often than not. His fearlessness on the track earned him the nickname "Babe Ruth of stock car racing."

But Turner's legacy extends beyond his racing accomplishments. He was also one of the sport's most astute businessmen. In an era when NASCAR was still gaining traction, Turner saw the potential for growth and seized the opportunity. He became heavily involved in promoting races, buying and selling racetracks, and even founding his own racing team, the "Curtis Turner Racing Team," which was a force to be reckoned with.

As his fame and success grew, so did his rebellious reputation. Turner was known for his wild lifestyle, partying, and indulgence in some of life's pleasures. He lived his life passionately, both on and off the track. However, his tumultuous personal life often created friction within the NASCAR community, leading to multiple suspensions and ultimately his banishment from the sport in 1961.

Despite the controversies, Turner had left an indelible mark on NASCAR. His aggressive driving style and entrepreneurial spirit helped shape the sport into what it is today. His contributions to the development of NASCAR cannot be overlooked or understated.

After his banishment, Turner focused his attention on other business ventures, including real estate and the timber industry. He became a successful businessman yet again, proving that his tenacity and drive would always prevail.

Tragically, on October 4, 1970, Turner's life was cut short in a plane crash. He was only 46 years old at the time of his death. The racing world mourned the loss of a true legend, whose impact on the sport would always be remembered.

Today, Curtis Turner's legacy lives on. He was posthumously inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2016, acknowledging his immeasurable contributions to the sport. His name will forever be etched in the history books, alongside other racing greats.

Curtis Turner's life and fast times epitomize the spirit of NASCAR. He was a risk-taker, an innovator, and a symbol of perseverance. His story serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, one's passion and determination can leave an everlasting legacy.

Full Throttle: The Life and Fast Times of NASCAR Legend Curtis Turner

by Robert Edelstein(Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	886 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	384 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	281 pages
Item Weight	:	12.3 ounces
Dimensions	:	4.92 x 0.64 x 7.48 inches

FREE

“A superbly researched and engagingly written biography” of NASCAR legend Curtis Turner, known as the Babe Ruth of stock car racing (Sports Illustrated).
 
Curtis Turner’s life embodied everything that makes NASCAR the biggest spectator sport in American history; the adrenaline rush of the races, the potential for danger at every turn, and the charismatic, outrageous personality of a winner. Turner created drama at the racetrack and in his personal life, living the American Dream several times over before he died a violent and mysterious death at the age of forty-six.
 
In gripping prose, and with access to the files of Turner’s widow, sports writer and author of NASCAR Generations Robert Edelstein offers the first complete chronicle of Turner’s life. From his days as a teenage moonshine runner in Virginia, through millions earned in fearless finance deals, to his incredible comeback after four years of being banned from the NASCAR circuit, Full Throttle lets you ride shotgun with the legend.