Memorable Firsts in NASCAR

In just its second year of existence as a sanctioning body, NASCAR introduced its newest division, "Strictly Stock," on June 19, 1949, on a three-quarter mile dirt track in Charlotte. Glenn Dunaway crossed the checkered flag first in his Ford, but was disqualified after officials noticed he had tampered with the front springs. That gave Jim Roper (inset) his one and only NASCAR victory in a Lincoln, collecting $2,000 for his troubles -- about the cost of one set of racing Goodyear tires today. (Send comments to siwriters@simail.com)