“RIP Dad”- Forgotten NASCAR Icon’s Son Shares Heartfelt Note on Father’s Day

Fathers often play pivotal roles in shaping their sons’ lives, more so in the world of NASCAR. Veteran Dale Earnhardt Jr is known to frequently honor the memory of his legendary father, Dale Earnhardt Sr, a bond cherished alike by NASCAR fans.

This Father’s Day, another poignant story emerges from the shadows of NASCAR history—the heartfelt tribute of Harry Brown to his father, the celebrated, yet somewhat forgotten, NASCAR legend, Jack McCoy. In a touching message, Harry reflected on the legacy of his father, a man, whose influence extended beyond the race track.

Jack McCoy: a racing legend and businessman

Jack McCoy was born on March 29, 1937, in Los Angeles, and moved to the Central Valley with his family. He became the winningest driver in the ARCA Menards Series West, securing a record 54 wins and 55 poles between 1964 and 1974. McCoy won two series championships in 1966 and 1973, and his #7 Dodge qualified for 19 NASCAR Cup Series races, achieving top 10 finishes at Riverside, Texas World Speedway, and Martinsville. McCoy passed away on April 15, 2009, at the age of 72 in Modesto, California.

Beyond his racing accomplishments, McCoy was also a successful businessman. He balanced his racing career with managing McCoy Tire Co., a family business he later expanded. According to Jack Robinson, a longtime co-worker, “He was a perfect gentleman when it came to business and as a person.” McCoy’s legacy includes not only his racing triumphs but also his contributions to the community through his tire shop in Modesto.

In a touching tribute on Father’s Day, Dr. Harry Brown shared on Reddit, “This was Dad’s last NASCAR racecar. It was dug out of an old barn and brought back to CA, restored to its original WOW! It’s pictured here at the block party held for Dad’s funeral in 2009.” Harry’s heartfelt reflections highlight the deep respect and admiration he holds for his father.

He further goes on to add, “I read his book from cover to cover and felt like I knew him better when I was done. RIP Dad.” Quite clearly, he is talking about McCoy’s book ‘Racing’s Real.’  Like every other heavy-duty NASCAR veteran, McCoy managed to carve his niche while he was at NASCAR. Thus, leaving behind an enduring legacy.

Iconic moments in McCoy’s Career and personal life

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Jack McCoy’s racing career was marked by numerous iconic moments. Known for driving Dodges usually painted purple, McCoy was inducted into the West Coast Stock Car Hall of Fame in 2002. He was also named one of NASCAR’s Winston West “All-Time Top 10” drivers in 2005. McCoy’s skill on the track was unmatched, with Ken Clapp, former NASCAR vice president, noting, “He could start eighth or ninth in the race and get in front, and he was impossible to pass. He had a high level of integrity on and off the track.”

One of the more colorful stories from McCoy’s career was his participation in the 1975 Cannonball Baker Memorial Sea-to-Shining-Sea Trophy Dash. Alongside his wife, Peggy, and co-driver Gary Johnson, McCoy covered the New York-to-California route in 37 hours and 50 minutes, finishing second. This adventure showcased not only his racing prowess but also his adventurous spirit.

In addition to his racing feats, McCoy attempted to develop a motorsports complex near Modesto in 1991, although the plan was eventually shelved due to environmental concerns. His entrepreneurial spirit extended to setting speed records, and in 1996, McCoy made a valiant attempt to break his own single-lap record at Stockton’s quarter-mile oval. Though he missed the mark by just over a second, his efforts underscored his relentless drive and passion for the sport. Had he been alive today, he would have turned 81.

Jack McCoy’s legacy is carried on by his family, with Harry Brown often reflecting on the lessons and memories his father left behind. As Harry poignantly noted on Reddit, “Thinkin’ about him today,” it’s clear that the impact of Jack McCoy’s life and career continues to resonate, especially on Father’s Day.