Roz Howard, American race car driver (d. 2013)

Roswell "Roz" Howard, Sr. (January 1, 1922 – January 1, 2013) stands as a notable figure in the annals of American stock car racing. Born on New Year's Day, he also passed away on his birthday, a unique coincidence marking the life of this dedicated competitor. Howard's racing career spanned the formative years of stock car racing, primarily active throughout the 1950s and into the early 1960s, where he left his indelible mark across both the rapidly growing national circuits and the fiercely competitive regional arenas of the Southeastern United States.

Roswell Howard's NASCAR Competition Era

Howard's presence on the national stage was primarily defined by his participation in two of NASCAR's most prominent divisions of the era: the Grand National Series and the Convertible Division.

NASCAR Grand National Series

This was NASCAR's premier division, the direct forerunner to today's NASCAR Cup Series. In the 1950s and early 1960s, competition was exceptionally intense, featuring a mix of factory-backed teams and independent drivers competing on diverse tracks, including both dirt and paved ovals, ranging from challenging short tracks to emerging superspeedways. Howard's consistent presence in this series underscores his talent and unwavering determination to compete at the absolute highest echelon of American stock car racing during its foundational period.

NASCAR Convertible Division

From 1956 to 1959, NASCAR operated a distinct and highly popular series specifically for convertible stock cars. This division offered a unique driving dynamic, as the open-top vehicles behaved differently from their fixed-roof counterparts, and it attracted significant fan interest due to its unique aesthetic and often intense, close-quarters racing. The Convertible Division was a challenging proving ground for drivers, demanding adaptability and precision. Howard's active participation highlights his versatility and his ability to excel across varied racing disciplines within the burgeoning NASCAR organization.

Dominance in Regional Racing and the 1957 MARC Championship

Beyond NASCAR's national spotlight, Roz Howard was a formidable and consistent force throughout the vibrant regional racing circuits of the Southeast. This era was characterized by countless local tracks hosting weekly events, providing a robust proving ground for aspiring drivers and fostering a passionate, grassroots fan base. Howard's consistent prowess in this demanding environment culminated in his most significant championship achievement:

• 1957 MARC Southern Late Model Championship: This prestigious title was a testament to his skill and consistency. MARC, which stood for the Mid-Atlantic Racing Club, was a prominent regional sanctioning body founded in 1953. It later evolved into the Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA) in 1964, which is now a widely respected stock car series that continues to serve as a crucial stepping stone for aspiring NASCAR drivers. Winning a MARC championship, particularly the Southern Late Model title, was a highly significant accomplishment, solidifying Howard's reputation as one of the elite drivers in the region during a golden age of grassroots racing across states like North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. His extensive travel and competitive spirit saw him racing "throughout the southeast," indicating a tireless schedule on various challenging local circuits.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roswell "Roz" Howard, Sr.

When was Roswell "Roz" Howard, Sr. active in stock car racing?

Roswell "Roz" Howard, Sr. competed primarily in the 1950s and early 1960s, during a pivotal era for American stock car racing.

What major NASCAR series did Roz Howard compete in?

He competed in both the NASCAR Grand National Series, which was the premier division and precursor to today's Cup Series, and the unique NASCAR Convertible Division.

What was Roz Howard's most significant championship victory?

His most notable championship win was the 1957 MARC Southern Late Model Championship, which highlighted his dominance in regional stock car racing.

What was the MARC series?

MARC, the Mid-Atlantic Racing Club, was a prominent regional stock car sanctioning body founded in 1953 that later evolved into the Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA) in 1964. Winning a MARC championship was a significant achievement in early stock car racing.