The Intimidator" made a career of bullying his way around and through all opposition. Behind the mirrored sunglasses, bushy mustache and crusty demeanor was a hugh heart and a sentimental streak as big as Daytona's infield.  Asked recently by an interviewer what he considered his greatest accomplishments, he listed four without hesitation:: "Marrying Teresa, The seven (Winston Cup) championships. Winning Daytona 500. And seeing Dale Jr. win his first race."

Earnhardt leaned his art on North Carolina's dirt tracks, with three children at home and a bank note due in 90 days. This high school dropout raced to lie; he raced to escape the cotton mill culture that sucked in all around him.  Get between all that and the finish line, and risk a sideways trip through the infield.  Earnhardt's father, Ralph, died of a heart attack while working on his race car.  They'll say that his son never destined for a natural death.  That's how the legend will end.  Where it began.
On the track.