Harry Hyde was so good, they made a movie about him.
Hyde, who inspired Robert Duvall’s character Harry Hogge in the cinematic classic “Days of Thunder,” enjoyed a nearly three-decade career in NASCAR’s premier series. During that tenure, his incredible leadership skills translated to immense success — even to the greenest of drivers.Prior to guiding Dave Marcis, Neil Bonnett and Geoff Bodine to their first career wins and harnessing the talent of Tim Richmond, Hyde laid a championship foundation with fellow NASCAR Hall of Fame nominee Bobby Isaac.
RELATED: Harry Hyde’s career stats | Members of the Hall of Fame
In 1969, Hyde called the shots for Isaac’s 17-win season, which ranks among the most prolific seasons in the history of the sport. That year, Isaac also won 19 poles, which still stands as a NASCAR premier series record.
Hyde’s crowning achievement came in 1970, when he won the NASCAR premier series championship with Isaac, winning 11 times and capturing 32 top fives in 47 starts.
HARRY HYDE BIO
Born: Jan. 17, 1925
Died: May 13, 1996
Hometown: Brownsville, Kentucky
Championship
Premier: 1970 (crew chief)
Premier Series Crew Chief Stats
Competed: 1966-93
Wins: 56
Poles: 88
Years on Ballot: 10