Stu Smith

Rochdale, Lancashire

391 (1965-1980)
1 (1981-1989,1992,2008)

b. 1946 d. 2010

After a few years finding his feet and learning to drive in a car that was a bit of a handful, a new self-built car for the 1969 season saw Stu begin his reign at the top of the sport, beginning with a grand slam of all three titles that year. His 100th final came at Aycliffe on Sunday 19 September 1971. He went on to dominate the sport for over a decade, winning a staggering 500 finals, plus six World titles, 13 National Points titles and three British titles. Mere statistics aside, he was revered by many as a legend of stock car racing that will never be equalled.

Officially retired after his testimonial meeting in December 1986, but made occasional appearances in borrowed cars for several years afterwards.

In addition to the 500 finals he won in the UK, he also won at Baarlo at Easter 1978, which takes his grand total to 501. He also won two F2 Finals on 11th September 1977 and 30th July 1978, both at Hartlepool.