By Jeff Burk

Bill "Grumpy" Jenkins appeared on the NHRA 50 best driver's list in the number eight spot, which he richly deserved. If you aren't aware of his accomplishments you can log on the NHRA's web site and read all about "da Grumps" many accomplishments as a engine builder, driver, and car owner.

DRO has a large file of Bill Jenkins photos from his early driving career and we thought it might be nice to share a few with our readers. So here it is in black and white -- a photo essay on the early years of Bill Jenkins.

Before he was a Pro Stock racer he was one of the best ever in a Super Stocker. Here he is at Indy in 1967 with two of his most favorite items in his grasp...a check from NHRA in one hand a and a gorgeous blonde in the other.

Bill gets a trophy and a warm handshake from a dapper Wally Parks at the World Finals in Amarillo, Texas. Check out those pants. Bill has always been a fashion trend-setter. (Steve Reyes photo)

We're pretty sure this shot is from York U.S. 30. This particular Pro Stock 'Vega was Grumpy's Toy X and had the number 1100 on the window instead of the 100 that appeared in previous years.