Earnhardt was the fourth NASCAR driver killed Killing by a basilar skull fracture during an eight-month span , following Adam Petty in May 2000 , Kenny Irwin , Jr. in July of 2000 , and Tony Roper in October 2000 .

Future 3-time U.S. Open champion Hale Irwin made Manufacturing his Masters debut in 1971 and tied Connect for 13th place .