WATCH: Former NASCAR Driver Dick Trickle Takes a Smoke Break in the Middle of the Race

Back in the 70s, it is safe to say that the NASCAR Cup Series rules were quite lax. During one particular race, the late Dick Trickle was so relaxed that he was smoking a cigarette while driving the car. Apparently, he used to keep a lighter in the car which he would often use to light up his cigarette and puff away.

It is also interesting to note that Trickle is hardly the only driver. This is because three-time Cup Series champion David Pearson also used to smoke during the race. According to a rumor, Trickle had a special hole drilled in his helmet so that he could smoke while racing. Of course, the smoke breaks took place during caution periods.

READ MORE: WATCH: When a Stubborn Kenny Wallace Did Not Want to Give Up His NASCAR Seat Midway in the Race

What made Dick Trickle so famous in NASCAR?

Sadly, Trickle was not quite so successful in the NASCAR Cup Series arena, with just two wins in the Xfinity Series. However, he was best known for being incredibly successful while racing in the short track scene. He also competed in 2,200+ races across various racing disciplines in the United States. This includes the likes of the American Speed Association, ARTGO Challenge, ARCA, All Pro, International Motor Contest Association, NASCAR, and USAC.

It is also said that he won over 1,200 races in his entire career, which is truly impressive. A recipient of the 1989 Rookie of the Year award, he was fondly nicknamed ‘The White Knight’. This was largely because of his SuperAmerica paint scheme, which was predominantly white in color.

WATCH STORY: Dale Earnhardt Jr. Gets Saltines From a Fan Over Drinking Habit; Clint Bowyer Shuts Them Down

Tragically, he died at the age of 71 from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in 2013. Since then, the community has done its bit to preserve his memory in the hearts and minds of NASCAR fans. This includes a memorial statue at the Rudolph Community Park in his native Wisconsin.