Dale Earnhardt (1951 - 2001) passed away on February 18, 2001, at the age of 49. Known as "The Intimidator" for his aggressive driving style, Earnhardt was one of the most successful American race car drivers in history, winning seven NASCAR Premier Series championships over a celebrated career. Born in Kannapolis, North Carolina, Earnhardt began racing when he was a teenager and achieved success in lower level circuits. He eventually achieved entry into the premier series, finding success with the Richard Childress Racing team in the early 1980s. Earnhardt won the premier championship in his third full season and added a remarkable string of titles in the 1990s; a period of accomplishments often described as one of the most successful runs of any NASCAR driver. Earnhardt amassed 76 career wins and a record-breaking $41-million dollars in career earnings. His success off the track was represented in many accolades, including the National Motorsports Press Association Driver of the Year and the Most Popular Driver awards. He was inducted into the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in 2006. He will be remembered for his incomparable skill and drive both on and off the track, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of motorsports.