In addition to his accomplishments
in NASCAR Parsons also won 16 races on his way to back-to-back ARCA Championships in 1968 and 1969. “First and
foremost, Benny Parsons was a nice guy,” said ARCA president Ron Drager. “He never forgot where he came
from, and took every opportunity to remember and help people after he had achieved so much success and was in a position to
do so.”
Nextel Cup team owner
Richard Childress who raced against Parsons back in the 1970’s said that Parsons was a special person, a fighter, and
when he became ill he knew that he could beat it.
Parsons tried beating
it, returning to the TV booth to call races last year. In an email from Parsons to SCR last September he said his intention
was to keep on working, but he never wanted to hinder a race broadcast in any way. I can honestly say he didn’t.
His passion for the sport was evident as he explained racing so that an average fan with little technical knowledge could
understand, and BP we thank you for that.
More than just racer
and broadcaster, Parsons was a mentor, helping several drivers start careers in NASCAR. "Benny Parsons is not only the
person I owe my NASCAR career to but he was a true friend to me from the day we met. I will always appreciate his friendship
and what he did for me,” said Greg Biffle, one of the drivers whom Parsons helped get a break in NASCAR.
Parsons many friends
through out the racing world are saddened by his passing. Michael Waltrip went as far as having on the side of his car
during Daytona testing a message that read “We Love You BP” and I think that sums it up the best, as the racing
world mourns the loss of a NASCAR legend.
From all of us at SCR…
R.I.P. BP, We will miss you.
Questions, Comments;
Email Matt
The
views and opinions in this article are that of the writer(s) and not necessarily that of SCR
2006 StockCar Review.
