|
 |
Article Details
|
|
 |
| |
Bill France, Jr. Leaves a NASCAR Legacy
By Sharon Burton
for JeffBurtonWorld.com
This week, it seems appropriate for us to remember and recognize an icon of the NASCAR industry, Bill France, Jr. There are many wonderful stories for us to learn just how much he was a driving influence and visionary for NASCAR, as we know it today!
Yes, this week has been an incredible roller coaster of mixed emotions. It is indeed with mixed emotions that we started our week on Monday, June 4, 2007. As we celebrate, the first cup win of Martin Truex, Jr., a driver who is sure to be another NASCAR success story of the future; it is somewhat ironic that at the same time we are mourning the death of a past NASCAR leader who shaped our sport into an enviable success that few businesses have achieved in today’s world!
As a relative newbie to the sport since 2002, the primary face of NASCAR leadership has been Brian France and Mike Helton. Together they manage what Bill France, Jr. did alone. The scope of influence by Bill France Jr. is somewhat limited for those of us who came to NASCAR at the close of or after his tenure. Sure, we know who Bill France Jr. is….and of his influence to the sport. However, with his passing, comes a chance to grasp the fullness of his commitment and contribution to the sport we enjoy!
Everyone knows that Bill France, Sr. was the visionary for Daytona International Speedway; but how many of us knew that Bill France, Jr. personally labored to build the speedway? He actually spent long hours, seven days a week helping to build Daytona International Speedway! To put this into perspective ask yourself, how many of our current leaders have personally put their own sweat into building a stadium, court, course, or whatever the medium that allows fans to watch our sport in action? It almost seems ridiculous to fathom that thought! Amazingly, it did happen in NASCAR, with a man named Bill France, Jr.
Can you imagine what that act alone must mean to his family. What that act alone has demonstrated to his son and daughter about making a commitment…and being dedicated? Yet, there are countless acts by Bill France, Jr. contributing to the growth of NASCAR from a regional, to a national and yes, even an international sport!
With each new anecdote, we learn about Bill France, Jr., we have a better understanding of his personal ownership and desire to direct and influence the sport he loved so much! How many of us actually live out our dream and see it become a reality bigger than imagined? The leadership and life of Bill France Jr. are very rare indeed and speaks volumes about the legacy he leaves behind.
This week as several NASCAR contemporaries remember Bill France Jr., we learn that he is a man that when he speaks, people listen because they have a tremendous respect for his intelligence and foresight! When people speak of Bill France Jr., they speak with genuine reverence! Yes, he held a place of authority, but more importantly, the respect he commanded is also genuine.
Whether one agrees with his decisions or management style, one cannot honestly avoid being in awe of what he has accomplished! Bill France Jr. has given to his family and fans, an incredible legacy of how to lead a regional sport to national and international phenomena! Take note from those who knew him. We will do well to learn from his active participation in making his dream a reality. Especially as we remember Bill France, Jr. as a unique and amazing leader of a sport, we all have come to love!
Note: The views expressed are solely those of the author and does not reflect the opinions of JeffBurtonWorld.com
Posted By: Dan Villeneuve
Date Posted: 6/8/2007
Number of Views: 27360
| | |