With the 1947 trophy

Flock started 24 races in 1947 and won seven times. He finished 235 points in front ofSamples, who won twice in 34 starts. Red Byron, who won nine of his 18 starts, ranked third in points when the season ended.

Winning in his first start after crippling injuries and topping it off with a championship remain classic portraits on NASCAR's lively canvas of speed.

The fans adored Fonty Flock's warm smile, his amiable attitude and most of all that irrepressible spirit so characteristic of his personality.