The 1950 Southern 500 was not just a race of machines; it was a crucible for the men who dared to push them to their limits. This inaugural event at Darlington Raceway, held on September 4, 1950, brought together a diverse group of drivers, from seasoned competitors to those making their first and only NASCAR start. The race, a grueling 500-mile contest, tested their skill, endurance, and nerve under challenging conditions, ultimately shaping the early
landscape of stock car racing and defining the careers of many.
A Field of Pioneers and One-Timers
Over 80 entrants initially showed up for the race, with 75 cars ultimately qualifying and starting. This massive field included individuals who would become legends, as well as those whose NASCAR careers began and ended on that single day. Byron Beatty, Walt Crawford, P.E. Godfrey, Bill Henson, Pete Keller, Jerry Kempf, Lee Morgan, Dick Soper, and Jack Yardley all made their sole NASCAR start at the 1950 Southern 500. Their participation, however brief, contributed to the rich tapestry of the event.
Conversely, the race served as a launching pad for many who would go on to establish the first generation of stock car drivers. Weldon Adams, Roy Bentley, Jack Carr, Gene Comstock, Gene Darragh, John DuBoise, Carson Dyer, Joe Eubanks, Johnny Grubb, J.E. Hardie, Tex Keene, Bub King, Virgil Livengood, Hub McBride, Hershel McGriff, Bill Osborne, Barney Smith, Rollin Smith, Jesse James Taylor, Charles Tidwell, Murrace Walker, Bill Widenhouse, and Shorty York all began their NASCAR careers at this historic event. This blend of new talent and one-time hopefuls created a unique competitive environment.
The Winner's Strategy and Others' Struggles
Johnny Mantz, the eventual winner, exemplified strategic thinking and adaptability. While many teams struggled with tire failures on the new paved track, Mantz had a crucial advantage: he had tested a tire specifically designed for asphalt stock car racing, offered by Firestone. This foresight allowed him to manage his tires effectively, leading 351 laps and ultimately winning by over nine laps. His average speed for the race was 75.250 mph (121.103 km/h) over 6 hours, 38 minutes, and 40 seconds.
Not all drivers were as fortunate. Polesitter Curtis Turner, who had the fastest qualifying time of 43.884 seconds, led early in the race but was wrecked out on lap 275, sustaining significant roof damage. Other drivers, including Tex Keene, and Jack Smith, also rolled their cars during the event, highlighting the inherent dangers and the unforgiving nature of the track. The race was a true test of survival, with most known DNFs (Did Not Finish) attributed to crashes. The human toll was evident, with Pee Wee Martin and Bob Smith retiring from professional stock car racing after this demanding event, perhaps influenced by the challenges they faced.
