Jimmy Florian

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Jimmy Florian (Setpember 25, 1923-February 14, 1999) was a NASCAR driver from Cleveland, OH. He competed in twenty-six Sprint Cup Series events in his career. In 1950, his first year, Florian finished 9th in points after recording his only career win (Dayton), only pole (Canfield), and earned six top-tens. He added on seven top-tens in 1951 and 1952 before retiring in 1954.

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Stats June 25, 1950 at Dayton Speedway, Florian passed the dominant car of Curtis Turner (who led 115 of 200 laps) with 35 laps remaining to win the first NASCAR Grand National Series race for Ford Motor Company. Incredulous with the result (especially as Florian's flathead engine Ford was able to defeat the overhead valve engines of the successful Oldsmobiles), drivers like Turner, Joe Weatherly and Lee Petty protested the finish. During a post-race inspection, NASCAR went as far as to contact the Ford Motor Company to ensure Florian's engine was not oversized, though the company responded that the car was legal. In Victory Lane, Florian exited the car shirtless; Whitley stated the heat that day, the discomfort of the car's seat, the lack of a seatbelt (which were not required by NASCAR at the time) and the amount of protection a stock car offered contributed to Florian's decision to take off his shirt. NASCAR eventually created a rule prohibiting drivers from removing their shirts. : Ford Racing milestone wins - Jimmy Florian (motorsport.com)