Chitwood became a millionaire through performing and then organising stunt car shows. His grandson, Joie III, later became the Indianapolis Motor Speedway President. Chitwood, real name, George, starting racing in 1935 and proved very adept, winning the 1939 and 1940 AAA East Coast sprint car championship. Chitwood, in 1941, became the first man to wear a seat-belt in Indianapolis 500 history. He was honoured, due to his devotion to the sport, by many clubs and associations in America for many years.

Biography last updated 20 Oct 2015