Ralph De Palma, Race Car Driver, Sheepshead Bay Speedway, 1912

Photograph shows Ralph De Palma (1882-1956), at an automobile race at Sheepshead Bay Speedway, Long Island, New York in August 1917.

Ralph DePalma, an accomplished Italian-American racecar driver, achieved great success throughout his career. His notable triumph came in 1915 when he emerged as the champion of the prestigious Indianapolis 500. Renowned for his exceptional skills, DePalma's racing legacy boasts an estimated 2,000 victories, earning him a well-deserved place in the International Motorsports Hall of Fame. He dominated the American AAA national dirt track championships from 1908 to 1911, securing consecutive wins in those years. Additionally, DePalma claimed victory in 24 American Champ car races and clinched the Canadian national championship in 1929. With a remarkable career spanning 27 years, he amassed substantial earnings, totaling around $1.5 million by 1934. Recognized for his achievements, DePalma has been honored with induction into multiple prestigious halls of fame. Throughout his racing career, he showcased his exceptional talent on various tracks, including boards, dirt road courses, and ovals.