Motorsports legend ‘Humpy’ Wheeler dies

Longtime Charlotte Motor Speedway President and General Manager H.A. “Humpy” Wheeler died at the age of 86. A transformative figure in the world of motorsports, Wheeler was hired by Speedway Motorsports founder Bruton Smith in 1975 and oversaw the operations of one of NASCAR’s premier venues until his retirement in 2008. He was best-known for his “FANS First” approach; mentorship of drivers and industry professionals; and his elaborate and flashy pre-race stunts, earning the moniker “the P.T. Barnum of motorsports.” Wheeler was a member of the NMPA Hall of Fame. Information regarding funeral arrangements will be released at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made in Wheeler’s name to the Belmont Abbey College Motorsports Management Program, which Wheeler was instrumental in launching more than 20 years ago to prepare young professionals for business, management and marketing roles across the industry.