Al Holbert is remembered as one of America’s best road racers, but the Pennsylvania native also ventured into Indy-car and stock-car racing.
Holbert was killed when his airplane crashed after take off from Columbus, Ohio, on Sept. 30, 1988. Holbert was 42 at the time and still a regular on the IMSA circuit.
Holbert posted his first victory in 1971 and turned pro three years later. He earned his first of five IMSA championships in 1976. In 1983, Holbert won both the IMSA GT and Can-Am titles.
Holbert won the 24 Hours of Le Mans three times and the Rolex 24 At Daytona twice. He also won the 12 Hours of Sebring twice.
Holbert competed in 19 NASCAR Cup races in the late 1970s and raced Indy cars in the mid 1980s.
In 1993, Holbert was inducted into the International Motorsports Hall of Fame.
Featured here (clockwise from top left): Deep in thought; Getting a ride at Daytona in 1976; Receiving the 1977 IMSA trophy; Discussing race strategy with Derek Bell in 1986; Celebrating his 12 Hours of Sebring win with co-drivers Bruce Leven and Hurley Haywood; Driving the No. 14 Bosch Turbo Porsche Carrera; Taking it easy in 1978; In victory lane at Road Atlanta. — NSSN Archives