On Feb.17, Daytona International Speedway will host one of the most anticipated events in racing history: the 50th running of the Daytona 500. The Daytona 500 is a tribute to speed, to be sure. But it's also a celebration of the drivers — past and present — whose skills, courage and competitive spirit have made "The Great American Race" one of the nation's greatest sporting events.

Did You Know?

• In 1959, the inaugural Daytona 500 was run caution-free.

• The 1967, Daytona 500 was the only NASCAR victory for racing legend Mario Andretti.

• Tiny Lund won the 1963 Daytona 500 on one set of tires.

• Paul Bass drove an Edsel convertible in the inaugural Daytona 500. It was the only appearance of an Edsel in NASCAR competition.

Source: NASCAR

Previous Winners

2007 Kevin Harvick

2006 Jimmie Johnson

2005 Jeff Gordon

2004 Dale Earnhardt Jr.

2003 Michael Waltrip

2002 Ward Burton

2001 Michael Waltrip

2000 Dale Jarrett

1999 Jeff Gordon

1998 Dale Earnhardt

1997 Jeff Gordon

1996 Dale Jarrett

1995 Sterling Marlin

1994 Sterling Marlin

1993 Dale Jarrett

1992 Davey Allison