Norwood Arena Speedway local driver and Daytona 500 winner Pete Hamilton passed away on Tuesday, March 21, 2017 at the age of 74. Pete was more than a local legend, he was truly a talented driver and gentleman.
Dales Earnhardt, Mark Martin, Darrell Waltrip, Richard Petty Motorsports, Kenny Wallace, Fox Sports, Atlanta Motor Speedway, Talladega Super Speedway, Wood Brothers Racing, Daytona International Speedway and a long list of others expressed their condolences on social media.
From Daytona Speedway President Chip Wile:
"We are saddened by the news of the passing of 1970 Daytona 500 champion Pete Hamilton. Driving Petty Enterprises' winged Plymouth Superbird, Pete captured his first NASCAR victory in the 1970 Great American Race. He made significant contributions to the sport and was the first driver from New England to win NASCAR's biggest and most prestigious race. On behalf of everyone at Daytona International Speedway, I want to offer condolences to the family and friends of Pete Hamilton. He will be missed."
