Parnelli Jones, the 1963 Indianapolis 500 champion and a true legend in American motorsports, passed away at the age of 90 in his hometown of Torrance, California. His death marks the end of an era, but his legacy lives on through his remarkable achievements and contributions to the racing world.
Early Life and Introduction to Racing
Born as Rufus Parnell Jones, he quickly became known by the nickname “Parnelli” during his teenage years. This moniker was more than just a name; it was a shield, hiding his youth from the racing authorities in Southern California. Even as a teenager, Jones was passionate about racing, and he honed his skills in various automobile classes, laying the foundation for his storied career.
Rise to Fame in USAC
Jones’ versatility and skill soon catapulted him to prominence. In 1960, he clinched the Midwest Sprint Car title, a significant milestone that showcased his talent and determination. This victory was just the beginning, setting the stage for his future successes.
First Indianapolis 500 Appearances
Jones made his Indianapolis 500 debut in 1961, earning Rookie of the Year honors alongside Bobby Unser. His performance was a clear indication of his potential, and in 1962, he became the first driver to qualify at over 150 miles per hour, a testament to his fearless approach and technical prowess.
1963 Indianapolis 500 Victory
The pinnacle of Jones’ career came in 1963 when he dominated the Indianapolis 500, leading 167 out of 200 laps. Driving a rear-engine Lotus-Ford for car owner J.C. Agajanian, Jones’ victory was a historic moment, showcasing his exceptional skill and cementing his place in motorsports history.
Subsequent Indianapolis 500 Participation
Jones competed in a total of seven Indianapolis 500 races, each one adding to his legendary status. Notably, in 1967, he led the race until a transmission bearing failure just three laps from the finish robbed him of a near-certain victory. Despite this setback, his performances remained etched in the annals of racing lore.
Success as a Car Owner
Jones’ impact wasn’t confined to the driver’s seat. As a car owner, he achieved back-to-back victories at the Indianapolis 500 in 1970 and 1971 with Al Unser driving. These wins further solidified his reputation as a strategic and insightful figure in the racing community.
Achievements Beyond Indianapolis
Jones’ prowess extended far beyond the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. He won four USAC titles across sprint cars and stock cars, and claimed victories in the NASCAR Cup Series, including the prestigious Motor Trend 500 at Riverside. His ventures into off-road racing were equally successful, with back-to-back wins in the Baja 1000 in 1971 and 1972.
Trans-Am Series and Other Ventures
In the late 1960s, Jones ventured into the Trans-Am series, partnering with car owner Bud Moore. His efforts culminated in winning the 1970 driver points standings, further demonstrating his versatility and adaptability across different racing disciplines.
Impact and Legacy
Indianapolis Motor Speedway president J. Douglas Boles described Jones as an icon whose influence transcended the track. Known for his speed, talent, and fearless approach, Jones created many magical moments in the Indianapolis 500. His legacy includes being the first to officially break the 150 mph barrier at Indy and his near-victory in the 1967 race with the famed STP turbine car.
Hall of Fame Inductions
Jones’ illustrious career earned him induction into multiple Halls of Fame, including the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame, the International Motorsports Hall of Fame, the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, and the USAC Hall of Fame. These honors reflect his significant contributions to the sport and his versatile racing achievements.
Generational Legacy
Jones’ legacy extends to his family, with his son P.J. Jones pursuing a diverse racing career in IndyCar, NASCAR, IMSA, USAC, and other series. His other son, Page, showed promise in midwest short track racing until a severe brain injury in 1994 curtailed his career. Continuing the family tradition, his grandson Jagger is making his mark in IMSA, having already secured multiple victories.
Final Years and Battle with Parkinson’s
In his final years, Jones resided in Torrance, California, battling Parkinson’s disease with the same tenacity that defined his racing career. Despite his health challenges, his spirit and love for the sport never waned.
Tributes and Remembrances
The racing community mourns the loss of Parnelli Jones, reflecting on his extraordinary contributions and indomitable spirit. His impact on motorsports is profound, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations of racers.
Conclusion
Parnelli Jones’ career is a testament to his incredible talent, versatility, and passion for racing. From his early days in Southern California to his triumphs at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and beyond, Jones’ influence on the sport is undeniable. As we remember his life and legacy, we celebrate a true icon whose contributions will forever be cherished.
FAQs
- What was Parnelli Jones’ most significant achievement? Parnelli Jones’ most significant achievement was winning the 1963 Indianapolis 500, where he led 167 out of 200 laps in a dominant performance.
- How did Parnelli Jones get his nickname? Jones adopted the nickname “Parnelli” during his teenage years to hide his identity and the fact that he was too young to compete in racing.
- Did Parnelli Jones have a successful career as a car owner? Yes, Jones had a successful career as a car owner, winning the Indianapolis 500 in 1970 and 1971 with driver Al Unser.
- What other types of racing did Parnelli Jones compete in? Besides IndyCar, Jones competed in USAC, NASCAR, off-road racing, and the Trans-Am series, achieving significant success in each.
- How is Parnelli Jones’ legacy continued by his family? Jones’ legacy is continued by his son P.J. Jones, who has competed in various racing series, and his grandson Jagger Jones, who is currently racing in IMSA.
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