Fill out this form to email this article to a friend
Race driver says others paved way
By KELLY BENHAM
Published March 21, 2006
Bill Lester wants to be a race car driver, not a pioneer. But becoming the first African-American in 20 years to start a race in NASCAR's top series has made him a face of diversity and a symbol of progress.
On Monday, Lester, 45, became just the sixth African-American to start such a race, and the first since Willy T. Ribbs in 1986. Wendell Scott was the first. Blue-eyed and fair skinned, Scott broke into the sport by not mentioning his race.
Like many accomplished African-Americans in their proudest moments, Lester was asked how he felt about his place in history.
"I don't think I am a pioneer," he said. "(The pioneers were) Wendell Scott and Joie Ray and those that really had a difficult time with regard to being a part of this sport. They paved the way for me. I hope I make a difference so there is no such concern about inclusion and diversity. That's when we know things are different."
Lester finished, unofficially, 38th in Monday's Golden Corral 500 in Atlanta.
[Last modified March 21, 2006, 02:30:40]
Share your thoughts on this story
|
News
Fifty years ago, they were screwed-up kids sent to the Florida School for Boys to be straightened out. But now they are screwed-up men, scarred by the whippings they endured. Read the story and see a video and portrait gallery.
Print
Email story
Comment
Email editor
