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Dale Earnhart (1951)close

Dale Earnhardt, born in Kannapolis, North Carolina, dropped out of school in ninth grade to pursue a career in auto racing. Known for his aggressive driving style, and dubbed "The Intimidator," Earnhardt dominated the sport through the 1980's and early 1990's. In addition to his seven Winston Cups, he won three IROC championships, was twice named American Driver of the Year, and five times named the National Motorsports Press Association Driver of the Year. Dale Earnhardt was killed in the final lap of the 2001 Daytona 500 on February 18, 200l, at the age of 49.

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