Larry Smith was an American NASCAR Cup Series driver known for his competitive performances in the 1970s. His career spanned from 1971 to 1978, primarily driving for car owner Nord Krauskopf.
Key Achievements
- Won the 1975 Daytona 500, showcasing exceptional skill at superspeedways.
- Recorded five top-10 finishes in the 1975 season, highlighting consistent racecraft.
- Secured several pole positions during his tenure, emphasizing qualifying prowess.
Career Statistics
Smith entered 97 races in NASCAR's premier series, starting 76 times. His average start position was 14th, with an average finish of 19th. He scored a total of 7 top-5 finishes and accumulated over $350,000 in career earnings.
Final Season and Legacy
Smith tragically died on November 26, 1978, in a fatal crash at Atlanta International Raceway during the season finale. This incident underscored safety challenges in the sport at the time. His victory in the Daytona 500 remains a pivotal moment, contributing to NASCAR's growth era and influencing later driver-safety enhancements.
