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CALM BEFORE THE STORM

 

Just before the start of the Nov. 7, 1976 Dixie 500 at Atlanta International Raceway, Dale Earnhardt prepares for the third start of his Winston Cup career (top photo).

 

The race would not go well for Earnhardt, who drove a Chevrolet owned by Johnny Ray. When Dick Brooks crashed in turn three late in the race, Earnhardt plowed into him and began a series of violent barrel rolls, the aftermath of which is clearly evident in the black-and-white photo. Although dazed, Earnhardt was not seriously injured.

 

Dave Marcis won the event. (Bill Niven/BRH Racing Archives)

BRH Racing Archives