Photo: Jim Hatfield
A.J. Foyt has been named Grand Marshall for next January’s 50th Anniversary running of the Rolex 24 at Daytona. The fabled Texan won the race twice, in 1983 and 1985, but perhaps a more relevant distinction is that he led the opening lap of the inaugural race in 1962—when it was known as the Daytona Continental—driving a Pontiac Tempest prepared by Ray Nichels.
Daytona International Speedway president Joey Chitwood III welcomed the announcement saying, “We’re honored to have one of the greatest drivers in the history of auto racing—A.J. Foyt—serve as Grand Marshal as we commemorate 50 years of endurance racing at the ‘World Center of Racing.’”
Foyt joins Dan Gurney, Richard Petty, Stirling Moss, Brian Redman, Derek Bell, Vic Elford and Benny Parsons among those who have previously served as Grand Marshal for the Rolex 24. The race is scheduled for January 28-29, 2012, with further information available at www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com
