Roland Leong Cause of Death and Obituary, Who Was Roland Leong? What Happened to Roland Leong? How Did Roland Leong Die?

Roland Leong, a revered figure in drag racing, passed away on December 29, 2023, at 78, due to declining health he battled in recent months. Known for his roles as an engine tuner, crew chief, and successful NHRA team owner.

by Ruksana

Updated Jan 03, 2024

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Roland Leong Cause of Death and Obituary, Who Was Roland Leong? What Happened to Roland Leong? How Did Roland Leong Die?
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Roland Leong Cause of Death and Obituary

Roland Leong, a legendary figure in drag racing, passed away on December 29, 2023, at the age of 78. The cause of his death was attributed to declining health, which he had been battling in the months leading up to his passing. Known for his expertise as an engine tuner, crew chief, and successful team owner in NHRA drag racing, Leong left a lasting legacy in the motorsports community.

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In recognition of his contributions to the sport, Roland Leong was recently inducted into the Hawaii Motorsports Hall of Fame. His colorful nicknames, "The Hawaiian" and "The Flyin' Hawaiian," reflected his birthplace in the Hawaiian Islands. Leong's career spanned several decades, and he remained a beloved and respected figure in the racing world until his passing. His death occurred just hours before the news of another racing icon, Gil de Ferran, who also tragically passed away on the same day.

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Who Was Roland Leong?

Roland Leong, born in 1945 in Honolulu, was an esteemed American drag racer, renowned for his achievements in NHRA drag racing. Leong gained local racing notoriety in Hawaii before making a significant impact on the U.S. mainland, particularly in Southern California, during the early 1960s. Over the years, he became one of the most respected team owners and crew chiefs, earning nicknames like "The Hawaiian" and "The Flyin' Hawaiian."

Leong's career featured victories with his "Hawaiian" brand cars, both in Top Fuel Dragsters and Funny Cars. He achieved notable successes, including sweeping the NHRA's two National Events in 1965 and 1966. Leong's influence extended beyond his own driving, as he had renowned drivers such as Don "Snake" Prudhomme behind the wheel of his cars. Despite facing challenges as a person of Asian descent in the racing world, Leong became a fan favorite and left an indelible mark on drag racing history.

What Happened to Roland Leong?

Roland Leong's health had been in decline in the months leading up to his passing on December 29, 2023. Despite his challenges, he remained connected to the racing community, and close friends like Don "Snake" Prudhomme spent time with him, reminiscing about their shared experiences in the sport. Leong's passing occurred just hours before the news of Gil de Ferran's death, marking a somber day for the motorsports world, as it lost two influential figures.

Leong's impact on drag racing was not only marked by his achievements on the track but also by his resilience and enduring passion for the sport. The racing community mourned the loss of a true icon and celebrated his legacy, remembering the "Hawaiian" brand and the significant contributions he made throughout his career.

How Did Roland Leong Die?

On December 29, 2023, Roland Leong passed away at the age of 78. The cause of his death was attributed to declining health, a battle he had been facing in the months leading up to his passing. Roland Leong, known for his role as a legendary NHRA team owner, expert engine tuner, and crew chief, had left a lasting impact on the world of drag racing.

On December 29, 2023, Roland Leong passed away at the age of 78. The cause of his death was attributed to declining health, a battle he had been facing in the months leading up to his passing. Roland Leong, known for his role as a legendary NHRA team owner, expert engine tuner, and crew chief, had left a lasting impact on the world of drag racing.



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Roland Leong Cause of Death and Obituary - FAQs

1. When did Roland Leong pass away?  

Roland Leong passed away on December 29, 2023, at the age of 78.

2. What was the cause of Roland Leong's death?  

Roland Leong's death was attributed to declining health, a battle he had been facing in the months leading up to his passing.

3. What is Roland Leong known for in motorsports?  

Roland Leong is known for his expertise as an engine tuner, crew chief, and successful team owner in NHRA drag racing.

4. What are Roland Leong's nicknames?  

Roland Leong was known by colorful nicknames, including "The Hawaiian" and "The Flyin' Hawaiian," reflecting his birthplace in the Hawaiian Islands.

5. How long did Roland Leong's career span in drag racing?  

Roland Leong's career spanned several decades, making a significant impact from the early 1960s until his passing in 2023.

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