Roland Leong was an American drag racer from Honolulu, whose “Hawaiian” brand cars achieved many victories and later went on to act as crew chief in Funny Car races.

Drag racing legend Roland Leong, who fought deteriorating health in recent months, passed away on December 29, 2023, at the age of 78. well-known for his work as an NHRA team owner, crew chief, and engine tuner.

Roland Leong Cause of Death and Obituary

At the age of 78, drag racing legend Roland Leong departed from this life on December 29, 2023. His deteriorating health, which he had been fighting in the months before his death, was determined to be the cause of his death. Leong made a significant impact on the motorsports industry as an engine tuner, crew chief, and prosperous team owner in NHRA drag racing.

Roland Leong was inducted into the Hawaii Motorsports Hall of Fame recently in honor of his contributions to the sport. His vibrant monikers, “The Hawaiian” and “The Flyin’ Hawaiian,” alluded to his Hawaiian Islands of birth. Leong had a multi-decade career and was well-liked and well-respected in the racing community until his demise.

His passing happened only a few hours before it was announced that Gil de Ferran, another legendary racer, had also died that day.

Who Was Roland Leong?

American drag racer Roland Leong was born in Honolulu in 1945 and was well-known for his accomplishments in the National Hot Rodeo Association (NHRA). Before having a big influence on the US mainland in the early 1960s, especially in Southern California, Leong rose to local racing fame in Hawaii.

He earned the monikers “The Hawaiian” and “The Flyin’ Hawaiian,” and over time he rose to prominence as one of the most admired team owners and crew chiefs. Throughout his career, Leong won races in both Funny Cars and Top Fuel Dragsters with his “Hawaiian” brand vehicles.

Among his many accomplishments was w inning both of the NHRA’s National Events in 1965 and 1966. Leong’s impact was not limited to his own driving because he employed well-known drivers like Don “Snake” Prudhomme to operate his vehicles.

Leong overcame obstacles as an Asian American in the racing industry to become a beloved figure who made a lasting impression on the history of drag racing.

What Happened to Roland Leong?

Before his death on December 29, 2023, Roland Leong’s health had been deteriorating. Despite his difficulties, he continued to be involved in the racing community, and close friends such as Don “Snake” Prudhomme would visit him and talk about their common past in the sport.

Leong’s death came just hours before Gil de Ferran’s passing was announced, making it a sad day for the motorsports industry as it lost two significant figures. Leong’s contributions to drag racing were not limited to his accomplishments on the track; they also included his tenacity and unwavering love for the discipline.

The racing world remembered the “Hawaiian” brand and the important contributions he made throughout his career, while also lamenting the passing of a true icon and celebrating his legacy.

How Did Roland Leong Die?

At the age of 78, Roland Leong passed away on December 29, 2023. His deteriorating health, which he had been battling in the months before his death, was determined to be the cause of his death. Drag racing has been forever changed by Roland Leong, who is best known for being a legendary crew chief, master engine tuner, and owner of an NHRA team.

Roland Leong, who was 78 years old, passed away on December 29, 2023. His deteriorating health, which he had been battling in the months before his death, was determined to be the cause of his death. Drag racing has been forever changed by Roland Leong, who is best known for being a legendary crew chief, master engine tuner, and owner of an NHRA team.