Many great warriors have competed in motorsports, but none responded with unparalleled bravery through tragedy and heartache more than Bobby Allison.

Taking stock of his losses is staggering. The NASCAR Hall of Famer suffered the sudden deaths of his two sons, Clifford (1992) and Davey (1993), in separate racing and aviation accidents. Then the loss of fellow “Alabama Gang” Neil Bonnett (1994) in a practice crash at Daytona International Speedway. Later, losing the love of his life, Judy (2015), to what should have been a relatively simple medical procedure.

The rivalries of his Cup career were legendary and certainly sharpened his steel, including duels with defenders and heated exchanges with fellow future Hall of Famers Curtis Turner, Richard Petty, Junior Johnson and Darrell Waltrip.

He didn’t back down from anyone.

Allison’s iron will and pursuit of perfection led to conflict, leading to over 20 different Cup car owners. His legend grew all the time.

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In 1974, Bobby suffered a broken back in a crash at Riverside during the Saturday race of the IROC Series. Yet there he was, back on track in an impromptu feat the next day – beating the biggest names in motorsport such as Foyt, Unser, Petty, Pearson, Yarborough and Formula 1 world champions Jody Scheckter and Emerson Fittipaldi.

His battle with Cale Yarborough alongside his brother Donnie in the 1979 Daytona 500 created an unforgettable memory, still considered one of the most significant events in NASCAR history.

Allison was originally a barnstormer, running anywhere, any day of the week. Local skits would promote his special appearances, where he shook hands, signed autographs and raced against local heroes at hundreds of locations, building a nationwide success as one of the sport’s most popular drivers. He was famous for “buzzing” the runways in his private jet upon arrival and departure, leaving fans to imagine where he was going.

On the track, he suffered wrecks that changed the course of NASCAR history. In 1987, his crash into the catch fence at Talladega led to engine restrictor plates at Daytona and Talladega Superspeedway to slow the cars. He suffered horrific crashes at Elko, Minnesota and Rockingham and hardly skipped a beat.

After his father-son finish 1-2 with Davey in the 1988 Daytona 500, Bobby suffered a career-ending and near-life-ending crash at Pocono in June, resulting in a severe head injury. Recovering from that injury, Bobby focused on resuming his career as a car owner and supporting the racing careers of Clifford and Davey.

After retiring as a car owner, Bobby made numerous appearances at fan gatherings, festivals and special events. Standing alongside his brother and fellow NASCAR Hall of Famers Donnie Allison and Red Farmer, they have always been among the most famous legends in the autograph line and have drawn the longest lines.

Bobby suffered several health problems in his later years, but always had the support of his daughters, Bonnie and Carrie, and many lifelong friends who stopped by with a strawberry milkshake from Chick-fil-A .

Some competitors are judged by their numbers, and he doesn’t lose the shine there — Allison’s 85 career wins rank fourth on the all-time Cup wins list. Others are judged by their contributions as innovators, and Bobby was one of the best in developing power steering and radio communications for observers. Some might be judged by fan appeal and popularity, and again, Bobby’s legion of fans is legendary.

He did everything with seriousness, determination and courage.

Bobby first came to my attention when I was 14 years old and attending the 1966 Old Dominion 500 at Martinsville. Bobby and Fred Lorenzen squared off in a classic battle. Bobby led 218 laps in his little Donald Brackins-owned Chevelle, while Lorenzen led 172 laps in his factory-backed Holman Moody Ford. Late engine problems relegated Bobby to third, while Lorenzen went on to win.

Since that day at Martinsville, I have followed Bobby’s career closely. When I started in the media side of sports 42 years ago, I never dreamed I would know Bobby so well. I especially enjoyed visiting Bobby and Judy at home, where Judy had gluten-free cookies waiting for my arrival. The stories we shared will always be with me.

One of my most cherished accomplishments is my small role in NASCAR, scoring my 85th career win at Bowman Gray Stadium in 1971.

Through all his trials and tribulations, Bobby maintained his faith, cherished the love of his family, and was supported by thousands of friends and fans.

Rest well my friend and enjoy your family reunion.

Ken Martin, director of historical content, has worked exclusively for NASCAR since 2008, but has been involved with the sport since 1982. He has worked in the broadcast booth for hundreds of races and calculated “points as they run” for the 1992 historic. finale at Atlanta Motor Speedway.