The NASCAR world has lost another legendary racer. We are saddened to have learned that Jack Ingram, a.k.a. “The Ironman” has passed away at the age of 84.
NASCAR chairman and CEO, Jim France expressed his condolences on Twitter:
“There is no better way to describe Jack Ingram than ‘Iron Man.“ Jack was a fixture at short tracks across the Southeast most days of the week, racing anywhere and everywhere. He dominated the Late Model Sportsman division like few others. He set the bar for excellence in the Xfinity Series as its Most Popular Driver in 1982 and champion in 1985. Jack was an “old school racer” and his work on his own car helped propel him to Victory Lane hundreds of times.”
NASCAR statement from Jim France on the passing of Jack Ingram. pic.twitter.com/yWUn5IolSo
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) June 25, 2021
Nicknamed the “Iron Man” for his relentless pursuit on the racetrack, Ingram dominated NASCAR Sportsman competition during the 1970s. Ingram, was the winner of five NASCAR championships and more than 300 races during his career.
Nascar legend Jack Ingram has passed away. Tough as nails. Old school. Lots of respect for him and that era he performed in. https://t.co/MkW8nr1Hxl
— Dale Earnhardt Jr. (@DaleJr) June 25, 2021
A former plumber and pipefitter, Ingram attended his first race when he was 14 years old after seeing a poster on a utility pole advertising stock car racing. He and his friend rode their bicycles to Asheville-Weaverville Speedway, slipped under the fence, and witnessed what would soon turn into a passionate career for him.
Watch the video below for a closer look into Ingram’s career and his famous rivalry on the track.