From Moonshine to Motorsports: Buz McKim’s Spirited Journey Through NASCAR’s Illicit Origins

This episode of The Logbook backgrounds the history of motorsports, particularly focusing on the connection between moonshine running and the birth of NASCAR. Delivered by Buz McKim, a prominent NASCAR historian, the talk details how the illegal distribution of moonshine led to the development of modified stock car racing. Key figures such as Junior Johnson, Lloyd Seay, and Raymond Parks are highlighted, showcasing their contributions to both moonshine running and stock car racing. It explains the early techniques and modifications made to cars to evade law enforcement, which later laid the foundation for modern NASCAR engineering and safety standards. The script captures anecdotal stories, technological advances, and the evolution of motorsports from its illicit beginnings to its present-day status, stressing the significant impact of moonshine trippers on American automotive history. ===== (Oo---x---oO) ===== 00:00 Meet Buzz McKim: NASCAR Historian 02:20 The Origins of Moonshine and Stock Car Racing 03:28 Junior Johnson: The King of Moonshiners 06:15 Moonshine Stories and NASCAR Legends 13:28 The Evolution of NASCAR and Car Modifications 19:13 Modern NASCAR and Its Roots in Moonshine 21:18 Q&A Session with Buzz McKim 28:03 Closing Remarks and Sponsor Messages ==================== The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net More Information: Visit Our Website Become a VIP at: Patreon Online Magazine: Gran Touring Follow us on Social: Instagram This episode is part of our HISTORY OF MOTORSPORTS SERIES and is sponsored in part by: The International Motor Racing Research Center (IMRRC), The Society of Automotive Historians (SAH), The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Argetsinger Family - and was recorded in front of a live studio audience.