CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — One of the toughest drivers in NASCAR history joined one the most enigmatic drivers of the modern era as the newest inductees into the Hall of Fame in a star-studded Friday night ceremony.
Ricky Rudd, known as the “Ironman” for his 788 consecutive starts over a 32-year career, was feted for his grit. Following a crash the week before the Daytona 500, Rudd’s eyes were so swollen he used duct tape to keep them open so that he could race. In reality, it was injuries to his ribs that bothered him most, for week, but was overlooked because of the tape keeping his eyes open.
Another time, when the cooling system in his car failed, his team tried to help by pouring water into his firesuit. But the process backfired and Rudd suffered second-degree burns. He finished the race and did his media obligations laying on the ground.