Known in SCCA history for his impressive career wins, with over 350 to his name, Jim Fitzgerald played a major role in SCCA history. He is pictured being interviewed following his first National Championship win in 1970. He later won a GT1 Championship in 1984. His life represents a tragic end to a career, as he died in 1987 as a result of injuries sustained during a racing incident in St. Petersburg, Florida.

In 2011, “Fitz” was inducted into the SCCA Hall of Fame for his mentorship of young drivers as well as his success behind the wheel. The Jim Fitzgerald Rookie of the Year Award has been presented annually to the Club Racer showing the greatest promise during his or her first season of National Competition.