Roscoe Thompson

Roscoe Thompson (July 5, 1922 in Forest Park, Georgia – April 10, 1988) was a NASCAR Grand National Series driver who drove from 1948 (at the age of 26) to 1962 (at the age of 40).[1]

Roscoe Thompson
Born(1922-07-05)July 5, 1922
Forest Park, Georgia
DiedApril 10, 1988(1988-04-10) (aged 65)
Cause of deathemphysema
NASCAR Cup Series career
29 races run over 9 years
Best finish40th - 1961 NASCAR Grand National season
First race1950 race (Daytona Beach & Road Course)
Last race1962 Southern 500 (Darlington Raceway)
Wins Top tens Poles
0 2 0

Career summary

While finishing in the top-ten only twice, Thompson was one of the earliest pioneers of the American stock car racing scene.[1] His average start was 18th place while his average finish was 24th place.[1] The total amount of racing that Thompson did was 3,130.1 miles (5,037.4 km).[1] Out of 2033 laps, Roscoe Thompson only managed to lead 11 (less than 1%) of them.[1] His total career earnings were $5,440 ($45,979.67 when adjusted for inflation).[1]

The most notable races that Thompson attended were the first running of the Southern 500, 1959 Daytona 500 (first on paved track) and the 1961 running of the World 600. Some of his earlier accomplishments are as follows:

  • He was inducted into the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame 10/27/06.
  • Peach Bowl Champion in 1950 and 1951.
  • NASCAR's sportsman champ for Georgia in 1953
  • Southeastern Modified champ in 1954.
  • He started 7th in the 1959 Daytona 500. (First on the track).
  • He was 10th in NASCAR'S first points standings in 1948.
  • In 1964 he was inducted into the Museum of Speed in Daytona.

Thompson has traditionally used the #15 and #24 as his racing numbers.[2] He also had relied on Oldsmobile engines for the majority of his career.[3]

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References
  1. "Roscoe Thompson's NASCAR career information". Racing Reference. Retrieved 2011-01-16.
  2. "Roscoe Thompson's NASCAR racing numbers information". The Official NASCAR Website (NASCAR.com). 2004-02-14. Retrieved 2011-01-16.
  3. "Roscoe Thompson's racing engine information". Motorsports Almanac. Archived from the original on 2012-03-17. Retrieved 2011-01-16.


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