Leon Duray & Jack Dempsey

Leon Duray is seen here with heavyweight boxing champion of the world Jack Dempsey in March 1927. Duray was named George Stewart at birth, but after admiring American-born french driver Arthur Duray, who fiinished second in his sole appearance at the Indianapolis 500 in 1914, he legally changed his name. Duray was a fast driver and will forever hold the Indianapolis Motor Speedway speed record for a lap when the track was completely paved with brick - 122.391 mph. That track record was not eclipsed until Jimmy Snyder posted a lap at 125.287 mph in 1937 after the turns were paved with asphalt.
 
Duray was an eight-time Indianapolis 500 starter with a best finish of sixth. Always a fast qualifier, he won two poles and started the race second, third (twice), and fourth on other occasions. He won four American Automobile Association (AAA) races.
 
This image was graciously provided by the Paul Sheedy collection.