Paul Aars, American race car driver (b. 1934)

Paul Charles Aars (June 4, 1934 – January 23, 2002) was an American stock car driver, known for his singular yet impactful appearance in NASCAR's premier series. Born in Curaçao, an island then part of the Netherlands Antilles, on June 4, 1934, Aars later established his residence in San Mateo, California. He passed away from natural causes on January 23, 2002, in San Mateo, at the age of 67, and was survived by his wife, Anita Aars.

Paul Charles Aars' Sole NASCAR Grand National Start

Aars made just one start in what was then recognized as the premier division of NASCAR: the Grand National Series. This series was the pinnacle of American stock car racing, drawing the sport's most skilled drivers and eventually evolving into the highly popular NASCAR Cup Series we know today.

The 1958 Crown American 500 at Riverside

His notable single race occurred on June 1, 1958, when Paul Charles Aars was among the 46 competitors at the Crown American 500. This grueling 500-mile endurance event took place at the iconic Riverside International Raceway in Riverside, California. Riverside was a challenging road course, a significant departure from the oval tracks that define much of modern NASCAR. Its layout, featuring sweeping turns and elevation changes, demanded exceptional driving skill and vehicle endurance, presenting a formidable test for both man and machine until its closure in 1989.

Aars started the extensive 500-mile, 190-lap race from a distant 45th position on the grid, driving a 1956 Ford. In an era where stock cars were much closer to their production counterparts, requiring robust mechanics and handling characteristics, his choice of vehicle was typical for the time.

A Remarkable Top-10 Finish

Despite starting near the very back of a competitive 46-car field, Paul Aars demonstrated remarkable tenacity and skill. He managed to navigate the demanding Riverside road course to secure an impressive 10th-place finish. While he ultimately completed the race 32 laps behind the winner, achieving a top-ten result as a debutant from such a low starting position was a significant accomplishment, highlighting his potential on the track and the sheer endurance required to simply finish such a lengthy event.

The race victor was Eddie Gray, who claimed $3,225 in prize money for his triumph. In stark contrast, Aars received $200 for his 10th-place effort. To put this in perspective, $200 in 1958 would be roughly equivalent to about $2,100 in 2024, reflecting the more modest prize pools of early NASCAR compared to contemporary payouts.

1958 Season Points Standings

For the 1958 Grand National Series season, Paul Charles Aars finished 67th in the overall points standings. This position, achieved from a single race start, underscores the competitive nature of the series, where many drivers competed in multiple events but still finished behind Aars due to retirements or lower finishes. It also highlights the early NASCAR points system, which rewarded consistency and strong finishes even for drivers with limited appearances.

FAQs about Paul Charles Aars

Where was Paul Charles Aars born?

Paul Charles Aars was born in Curaçao, an island nation in the southern Caribbean Sea, which was part of the Netherlands Antilles at the time of his birth on June 4, 1934.

How many NASCAR Grand National races did Paul Charles Aars compete in?

Paul Charles Aars competed in a single NASCAR Grand National Series race, which was the Crown American 500 at Riverside International Raceway on June 1, 1958.

What was Paul Charles Aars' best finish in NASCAR?

In his only NASCAR Grand National Series start, Paul Charles Aars achieved an impressive 10th-place finish at the 1958 Crown American 500.

When and how did Paul Charles Aars pass away?

Paul Charles Aars passed away from natural causes on January 23, 2002, in San Mateo, California, at the age of 67.