Sat Sep 07 11:43:21 UTC 2024: ## Racing Legend Paul Goldsmith Passes Away at 98
**DAYTONA BEACH, FL** – Paul Goldsmith, a multi-talented racer who excelled in both stock cars and motorcycles, has passed away at the age of 98.
Goldsmith’s racing career spanned decades, showcasing his exceptional skills across various disciplines. He is best known for winning the last NASCAR premier-series race held on the Daytona Beach and road course in 1958, driving a Pontiac for the legendary Smokey Yunick. He also claimed victory in the prestigious Daytona 200 motorcycle race in 1953, adding to his impressive five AMA national victories. Goldsmith’s versatility extended to the Indianapolis 500, where he made six starts, achieving a career-best third-place finish in 1960.
Beyond his individual achievements, Goldsmith’s success was intertwined with legendary car owners Smokey Yunick and Ray Nichels. Yunick, recognizing Goldsmith’s raw talent, introduced him to NASCAR in 1956. Goldsmith quickly rose through the ranks, securing his first win in his eighth premier-series start.
In addition to his NASCAR success, Goldsmith accumulated 26 victories in the USAC Stock Car Championship and even challenged the sanctioning body in court over rules that limited driver participation in both NASCAR and USAC. He was known for his innovative spirit, developing a water-circulating cooling system and an experimental warning light for his race car, both precursors to modern technology.
Goldsmith’s career wasn’t just about racing. He owned and operated an aircraft engine business, trained pilots, owned a small airport, and even held Burger King franchises. He remained passionate about aviation throughout his life, having been one of the first drivers to fly his own private plane to each race.
Goldsmith’s impact on the world of motorsports was immense, earning him induction into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame. He is remembered as a true legend, a versatile racer who defied expectations and left an indelible mark on the sport.
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