Explore the Inspiring History of Landmark Award Winners

The Landmark Award in NASCAR has recognized industry pioneers and innovators since it was introduced in 2015. This award honors individuals who have greatly contributed to NASCAR’s growth and success from behind the scenes.

Many recipients have been executives, promoters, inventors, and trailblazers shaping the sport for multiple decades. Their work laid the foundation for NASCAR’s evolution and popularity.

Anne Bledsoe France was the first Landmark Award recipient in 2015. She played a vital role in managing NASCAR’s finances and served as secretary and treasurer for the organization.

Her work, alongside her husband Bill France Sr., helped build the foundation for modern NASCAR. Anne remained active in the sport’s financial strategy until her passing in 1992, with her influence still felt today.

Harold Brasington was honored in 2016 for designing the unique Darlington Raceway. Known as NASCAR’s first superspeedway, the oval debuted in 1950 and hosted the sport’s inaugural 500-mile race.

Brasington also assisted with developing Charlotte Motor Speedway and Rockingham Speedway, boosting NASCAR’s presence in key racing markets. His contributions shaped important venues that remain central to the sport.

H. Clay Earles received the award in 2017. He constructed and operated Martinsville Speedway, the only track to host a NASCAR Cup Series race every year since 1949.

Earles is credited with starting the tradition of awarding Martinsville winners a grandfather clock, now one of NASCAR’s most recognizable victory symbols. This unique practice adds to the sport’s rich culture.

Jim France earned the honor in 2018. As the son of Bill France Sr., he served on the International Speedway Corporation board starting in 1959 and eventually became chairman.

In 2013, Jim led the Daytona Rising project, a $400 million upgrade making Daytona International Speedway the world’s first motorsports stadium. This project modernized a premier racing venue for future generations.

Jim Hunter was recognized in 2019 after dedicating over sixty years to NASCAR. As a journalist, public relations executive, and later vice president, his guidance was crucial in NASCAR’s expansion.

Many industry leaders and drivers have praised Hunter’s influence in growing the sport and enhancing its public profile. His career exemplifies commitment behind the scenes.

Edsel Ford II received the award in 2020. A great-grandson of Henry Ford and longtime Ford Motor Company board member, he supported NASCAR teams, executives, and fans.

Ford’s involvement with the NASCAR Hall of Fame highlighted his dedication to advancing the sport. His contributions strengthened ties between NASCAR and the automotive industry.

Ralph Seagraves was honored in 2021 for launching the NASCAR Winston Cup Series sponsorship. As an executive at R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, he helped bring the series national recognition.

The sponsorship began in 1971 and lasted over 30 years, contributing significantly to NASCAR’s stability and reputation. Seagraves’ efforts elevated the sport’s commercial success.

Mike Helton received the award in 2023. He became the first person outside the France family to serve as NASCAR president and has been with the organization since 1980.

Helton is known for overseeing the launch of the NASCAR Research & Development Center and improving safety standards across the sport. His leadership helped modernize NASCAR operations.

Janet Guthrie was honored in 2024 as a racing trailblazer. In 1976, she became the first woman to compete in a NASCAR premier series superspeedway event.

Guthrie also raced in the Daytona 500 and Indianapolis 500, making 33 NASCAR Cup Series starts with five top-10 finishes. Her helmet and firesuit are displayed at the Smithsonian Institution, celebrating her pioneering role.

The 2025 award was presented to Dr. Dean Sicking for inventing the SAFER barrier, which drastically improved racetrack safety. SAFER barriers became standard after Dale Earnhardt’s death in 2001.

Dr. Sicking also received the Bill France Award of Excellence in 2003 and the National Medal of Technology and Innovation in 2005. His innovations have saved countless lives.

Humpy Wheeler, honored in 2026, was known for his creative vision as president and general manager at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Wheeler’s unconventional promotional tactics attracted new fans and transformed the track into a top entertainment destination.

His influence spanned decades, leaving a lasting mark on NASCAR’s fan experience. Wheeler helped shape how the sport connects with audiences.

Each year, the Landmark Award celebrates those who have shaped NASCAR beyond the driver’s seat. The recipients’ stories showcase diverse paths to impact, highlighting how vision and dedication have made NASCAR what it is today.

John Martinez

John Martinez delivers real-time NASCAR Cup Series and Truck Series news, from live race updates to pit-lane strategy analysis. A graduate of the University of Northwestern Ohio’s Motorsports Technology program, he breaks down rule changes, driver tactics, and championship points with crystal-clear reporting.