Our Favorite Corvette Racing Highlights Over The Decades
Without exception, the Corvette has proved itself a valid contender on the track. From early Arkus-Duntov-inspired escapades to current Chevrolet-backed racing efforts, the Corvette’s motorsports pedigree is undeniably rich. In fact, one could pen an entire book solely on the racing exploits of the Corvette, as well as on the men and women who have piloted Chevrolet’s premier performer to victory at various points throughout history. Though originally withheld from formal race entry, due to Chevrolet’s compliance with the AMA’s ban on factory-backed racing, the Corvette has wasted no time in establishing its on-track dominance in the days since. The following are 10 of the most iconic Corvette racing highlights over the past 60-plus years.
Following Zora Arkus-Duntov’s domination of the Pikes Peak Hill Climb in 1956, plans were hatched to put the Corvette’s true performance on full display. To accomplish this, three specially prepared 1956 Corvettes were dispatched to Daytona’s Speed Week. These Corvettes were to be driven by John Fitch, Betty Skelton, and Arkus-Duntov himself. When the dust settled, the Corvette dominated the event’s top-speed class. The competition saw Duntov snag a modified-class win, dialing in a top speed of 147.30 MPH. Meanwhile, Fitch piloted his Corvette to a production-class win, achieving a top speed of 145.54 MPH.
