Paul Lewis (racing driver)

Lewis made his debut into top-level professional stock car racing in 1960 at the age of 27. He originally drove a Chevrolet. but also raced Ford, Dodge, and Plymouth cars.[3] During his 10-season career, Lewis made 114 Grand National starts, with 1 career pole in a May 1965 event at North Carolina's Harris Speedway, and scored his only career win at the 1966 Smoky Mountain 200 in Maryville, Tennessee. He led a total of 71 laps in his career as well.[4]

During his career, Lewis never ran a full season, and his best season points finish was 14th in 1965 after competing in just under half that year's events.[5] He started his career at the age of 27 and ended it at 35 years of age; a latecomer compared today's to NASCAR drivers who generally start their career at the top level between the ages of 18 and 21.[1]

Lewis has managed to earn a grand total of $52,867 from all the racing events that he participated in ($444,892.25 when adjusted for inflation).[1] Dirt tracks helped to contribute to Lewis' best career finishes; with him finishing an average of tenth place. His shortcoming would be restrictor plate tracks; where Lewis would finish a mediocre 30th place on average.[6]

Like many NASCAR drivers of his time, Lewis also drove his own car during some his career; his ownership career spanned from 1962 to 1968. In addition to himself, Buddy Arrington and Tiny Lund also each drove 1 race apiece for Lewis. Total earnings as a NASCAR owner for Lewis was $29,060 ($244,548.94 when adjusted for inflation).[7]