Ernie Irvan, owner of Irvan Enterprises in Mooresville, NC, was guest speaker at the Mooresville-South Iredell Chamber of Commerce Leadership Class Graduation on April 22. The former NASCAR driver addressed the 2003-04 adult and junior leadership graduates on the importance of leadership and having a good role model, family support and strong faith in Christ and self. He also told how the late Dale Earnhardt helped him get started in racing and Earnhardt’s leadership qualities. Irvan earned 15 NASCAR Winston Cup championships, numerous awards and 22 pole positions. He survived a near-fatal crash at Michigan International Speedway when a right tire deflated, sending his car into the turn two wall at more than 170 mph. He officially retired from driving in 1999 but continues to work and support racing.(Charlotte Observer)(5-3-2004)
