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NASCAR WCUP: Dale Earnhardt dies from injuries at Daytona 500


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By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel
February 18, 2001

DAYTONA BEACH FL: Dale Earnhardt was killed after crashing into the fourth turn wall during the 2001 Daytona 500. He was racing for third place on the final lap. Earnhardt was 49 years old.

Earnhardt was protecting a lead held by two cars that he owned driven by Michael Waltrip and his own son, Dale Earnhardt Jr. The two went on to finish in first and second place.

Earnhardt was a seven-time champion in Winston Cup racing. He was the leading active winner with 76 wins.

Earnhardt had to be cut from the wreckage of his familiar number 3 Chevrolet Monte Carlo.

This is the saddest day I have ever experienced in motorsports.

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