Wilbur Rakestraw

Wilbur Rakestraw (June 6, 1928 – May 7, 2014) was an American racing car driver. He was born in Dallas, Georgia, into a family of racers. His career included racing in the SRE (Southeastern Racing Enterprises) organization as well as the 11 NASCAR Grand National Series and 30 Convertible races.

Career Rakestraw began his career in 1956 racing at his hometown track, the Dallas Speed Bowl.

Accomplishments 30 starts in the NASCAR Cup and Convertible series from 1956–1961 1 top-five and 6 top-ten finishes in the NASCAR Grand National Division 3 top-five and 4 top-ten finishes in the NASCAR Convertible Series 3 Starts in the Daytona 500 (22nd-place finish in the inaugural event) Numerous wins in the MARC series 2008 GRHOF Inductee

Death Rakestraw died on May 7, 2014, of congestive heart failure.