Record for consecutive lead lap finishes to start a season

Jay Coker
@jay-coker
12 years ago
177 posts

Is my memory failing me, or am I correct to suggest/assume/guess that Dale Earnhardt Jr. has set at least the modern era record for most consecutive lead lap finishes to start a season...and perhaps in a row? The only streak in the modern era (1972-present) that comes to mind that MIGHT rival it would be Darrell Waltrip's run to the title in 1981 or 1982. I researched the top 15in pointsfrom last season, and it looks like Matt Kenseth probably had the old record to start the year with 14 back in 2007.

For all the criticism the guy gets, I would have to say that 16 races in a row of completing every lap in a race is no small feat.


updated by @jay-coker: 12/05/16 04:04:08PM
Dave Fulton
@dave-fulton
12 years ago
9,137 posts

I don't know about the record, but he surely has had a strong and memorable season. Interesting information.




--
"Any Day is Good for Stock Car Racing"
Jay Coker
@jay-coker
12 years ago
177 posts

I finally got the confirmation I was looking for yesterday. JR has the record to start a season with 19 (current)...the consecutive record is 21 by Jeff Gordon in 1988-99. JR has 20 in a row dating back to last season...he will tie Gordon if he finishes all 160 laps at Indy in 2 weeks.