Dick Johnson Straight
Queensland's favourite motor racing son was honored on 16 August, 2001, when the front section of the Queensland Raceway was officially named "Dick Johnson Straight".
Johnson, a five-time national champion and three-time Bathurst winner, proudly unveiled a piece of pit-lane wall, which now bears his name and a plaque commemorating the ceremony and Johnson's motor racing achievements.
The unveiling was part of the pre-race build-up to the 2001 VIP Petfoods Queensland 500.
Johnson was joined by his son Steve during the ceremony as well as a host of V8 Supercar drivers and teams during what was a serious day of testing at the circuit.
"It's always a little humbling to be recognised in such a way," said Johnson. "The Queensland Raceway faced some tough times in the beginning, but I think the facility has really founds its feet in the last 12 months and is going from strength to strength. I might not be around in 50 years, but it would be nice to think this track will still be here and that the signing-writing is maintained on this wall."
Johnson was one of the driving forces behind the development of the Queensland Raceway and made his last competitive drive in a V8 Supercar in 2000's Queensland 500 with Steve.
"I guess the fact that I had my last competitive drive here, makes it a little more special for me," said Johnson.
"It's a pity we could not go out with a win last year, but hopefully Steve and his co-driver can make up for that in 10 days time."
Read more about this topic: Queensland Raceway
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