Winning in Reverse

Defying the Odds and Achieving Dreams: The Bill Lester Story

By: Bill Lester

Narrated by: Cary Hite, Bill Lester

NASCAR has traditionally been a Southern white man’s sport, but it was knocked off its axis when Bill Lester entered the playing field. He had not grown up in the sport as so many other drivers had. Instead, he enjoyed racing as a side hobby while he worked as an engineer at Hewlett-Packard. Then, at age 40, while standing on the brink of peril or promise, he quit his job to pursue racing full-time. Blessed with natural talent, Bill still had a trifecta of odds against him: He was Black, he was middle-aged, and he wasn’t a Southerner. In other words, he was not the quintessential “good old boy” that NASCAR was used to seeing, and many fans did not hide their contempt for him. But Bill rose above it all, as did his rankings, and he made history time and time again, becoming the first African American to race in NASCAR’s Busch Series, the first to participate in the Nextel Cup, and the first to win a Pole Position start in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.

In Winning in Reverse, Bill reveals how he came to love working on muscle cars as a child, pursued amateur racing, and then finally transitioned to the pros. Listeners will be inspired by his inspirational and encouraging voice and the conviction that fills each moment. Whether you’re contemplating a career or lifestyle change, challenging social norms, or struggling against prejudice or bigotry, Winning in Reverse is a story for everyone who roots for perseverance in the face of adversity.

©2021 Bill Lester (P)2021 Dreamscape Media, LLC

Keeping at it

I like the fact that people can still grow when obstacles around them are very hard, even when the crew doesn’t want you to succeed. A very good book.

Bill's candor and commitment to his dream

I think Bill Lester did a masterful job of explaining the rise of a minority through the NASCAR ranks....the limited opportunities, yet the unexpected support from people you'd never expect.
Above all else, I was impressed that already successful in life, he risked health and wealth to pursue his passion and never looked back.
I would love to see it as a movie!

Late start, strong finish!

Bill's belief in himself and commitment to excellence are inspiring. As someone who once had similar aspirations, the story really hits home and makes me wonder "what if" I had the same determination and vision. Thanks for sharing all the highs and lows.