CNHI
6-30-10 — Raymond Parks, the godfather of stock car racing passed away Saturday
night at his home near Atlanta, Georgia.
Parks teamed with driver Red Byron to win the inaugural modified
championship in 1948 followed by the first ³strictly stock²‹ the forerunner
to today¹s Cup Series‹a year later.
In addition he helped finance many races as well as the fledgling NASCAR
organization in its early years.
³The NASCAR community is saddened by the passing of Raymond Parks,²
NASCAR chairman Brian France said in a statement. ³Raymond was instrumental
in the creation of NASCAR as a participant in the historic meeting at the
Streamline Hotel in Daytona Beach. He was also our first championship owner.
Raymond is a giant in the history of NASCAR and will always be remembered
for his dedication to NASCAR.²
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.