September 17 - This day in Petty history

1967 - Richard wins his 73rd career race, his 25th of the season and his eighth race in a row in 1967 by winning the Hillsboro 150 at Orange Speedway from the pole - all while suffering from the flu.

Second-place starter Dick Hutcherson led the first 68 laps of the race before Tiny Lund got by him to lead the next 11. The King then took over to lead the final 88 laps of the 167-lap race. Though two drivers dominated the pace, it doesn't mean the race was void of excitement. Just 12 laps into the race, Jack Harden lost control of his Ford down the frontstretch, leaped the turn 1 wall, tumbled and came to rest about 100 feet from the track. He was carefully removed from his car and transported to the hospital, but fortunately he wasn't seriously injured. (Photos from SouthernMotorRacing and courtesy of Harvey Tollison at RacersReunion.com)

Racing resumed for another 20 laps or so when another spectacular accident occurred between three drivers -  Paul Dean Holt, Earl Brooks and Bill Ervin. Holt's car came to rest on its side.

Southern MotorRacing photo courtesy of Harvey Tollison

While it's unknown what Brooks was saying to NASCAR official Dick Beaty, it's probable the conversation was heated considering Brooks' day ended following the 3-car pile-up.

Southern MotorRacing photo courtesy of Harvey Tollison

Article courtesy of Harvey Tollison

TMC
Edited September 17, 2014