Jan Opperman was one of the most colorful characters in the history of auto racing.
He was also one of the best racers to ever throw a sprint car into a turn.
Born in Long Beach, Calif., in 1939, Opperman was as well known for his hippie lifestyle as the long list of races that he won. Late in his career, he became a born-again Christian and was working toward creating a Montana ranch for troubled youth.
A winner with the World of Outlaws and USAC as well as at countless short tracks from coast to coast, Opperman was also a two-time Indianapolis 500 starter.
Opperman suffered catastrophic injuries during a race at Jennerstown, Pa., on Sept. 11, 1981. His parents cared for him until he died Sept. 4, 1997.
Featured here (clockwise from top left): At Paragon Speedway in 1980; At the track; Receiving an IMCA Winternationals trophy from Joie Chitwood (left) and Hubert Brooks; Talking racing at Dayton (Ohio) Speedway in 1976; Speaking with NSSN Editor Chris Economaki at Lakeside Speedway in 1974; With Tony Bettenhausen; Having tires on the brain;  Talking to Bubby Jones at Eldora Speedway in 1977; Behind the wheel. — NSSN Archives