Henry Ford rode to victory in the first and only race he ever drove, against Alexander Winton on October 10, 1901, in Grosse Pointe, MI. How much irony lies behind the car’s nickname – Sweepstakes – is unknown, but Ford’s first venture in the automotive business, the Detroit Automobile Company, was short of prospects in a highly competitive business.

Winton was among the best and most successful racers in the country at the time and Ford’s victory was popular and widely publicized. In fact, Ford’s win turned his fortunes and, ultimately, the history of the auto industry. A number people watching that day came forward with offers of financial support. This led him to establish Ford Motor Company in June of 1903.

In recognition of that heritage, Ford Racing has released a new logo that will be part of a year-long celebration. Festivities and special events are anticipated at race tracks across the country over the next 12 months. Ford Racing maintains an active presence in a number of racing series around the world, including NASCAR, NHRA, WRC, Rally America Grand Am and others.

In the photo above, Jamie Allison (right), director of Ford North America Motorsports, and Matt Kenseth, Ford NASCAR driver, pose with Henry Ford’s Sweepstakes race car at The Henry Ford Musuem in Dearborn, MI.