The only book-length account of the life of Wendell Scott, the
one-time moonshine runner who broke the color barrier in stock-car
racing in 1952 and, against all odds, competed for more than 20 years in
a sport dominated by Southern whites.
Hard Driving is the story of one man's determination to live the life
he loved, and to compete at the highest level of his sport. When Wendell
Scott became NASCAR's version of Jackie Robinson in the segregated
1950s, some speedways refused to let him race. Scott appealed directly
to the sport's founder, NASCAR czar Bill France Sr., who promised that
NASCAR would treat him without prejudice. For the next two decades,
Scott chased a dream whose fulfillment depended on France backing up
that promise. France reneged on his pledge, but Scott did receive
inspiring support from white drivers who admired his skill and tenacity,
such as NASCAR champions Ned Jarrett and Richard Petty.