Richard Petty – The Legend

The Richard Petty Story (1972) – 79 minutes
By 1972, Richard Petty had become a household name, and most Americans, even non-racing enthusiasts,
knew the name Petty. This made-for-tv movie aired in 1972, and perhaps a couple more times during the 70’s
on the late show. The movie starts out with Petty’s horrible crash at the 1970 Rebel 400, when his Plymouth
slammed into the inside retaining wall, knocking out a section of concrete. Petty was injured, and the movie
picks up with his family in the hospital, then a series of flashbacks on the Petty legend. Most of the movie
focuses on Lee Petty, played by the late Darren McGavin, a well-seasoned actor with a LONG line of credits,
including the classic film “A Christmas Story”, the 70’s tv series “The Night Stalker”, and dozens (and
dozens) of other roles. And Richard Petty plays himself! Not an actor by any means, Richard gives it his
best. Also seen is Noah Beery Sr., better known as the fiery father of James Garner in “The Rockford Files”,
along with dozens and dozens of other TV and movie roles over the decades.

Petty’s 200th Win – (44 minutes)
One of the most memorable moments in NASCAR history, Richard Petty’s 200th win. This is an
excellent documentary recorded off TV, and documents the entire day at the Firecracker 400, the site
of Petty’s 200th win. Some great footage of Ronald Reagan trying to broadcast the race, along with
memories of that day from noted media members and NASCAR officials.

NOTE : Please understand that these highlight reels were originally shot on film, not video. I am trying to be
as honest as I can about the film quality. These films were originally intended for the smaller TV sets
of the 80’s, so they may appear grainy on the big TV sets of today.  All films are in COLOR.