THE KINGS
Welcome to The Kings page, where we celebrate the incredible accomplishments of inspiring individuals who have overcome great adversity to achieve personal success. Each chosen member has faced their own unique challenges; and through determination, perseverance, and hard work, they have risen above their circumstances to create a life of purpose and fulfillment.
Every coolhandking has a story, a personal journey of overcoming obstacles, breaking down barriers and reaching their full potential. These incredible individuals have faced challenges such as poverty, discrimination, war, family hardships, health issues and deep personal struggles. But they have not let their circumstances define them. Instead, they have used their experiences as a catalyst for growth and now they inspire others with their stories of hope and resilience.
At coolhandkings, we believe that everyone has the power to create a life of meaning and purpose, no matter what challenges they may face. We hope that the stories shared on this page inspire and motivate you to overcome any obstacles in your own life and to pursue your dreams with passion and perseverance.
Thank you for visiting! We hope that you find inspiration and encouragement from the stories shared below.
PAUL
Born on January 26, 1925, in Shaker Heights, Ohio, Paul Newman grew up in a middle-class family with a love for sports and acting. After serving in the Navy during World War II, he pursued his passion for the arts, studying at the Yale School of Drama and making his Broadway debut in the early 1950s. Newman’s charm and striking blue eyes made him a Hollywood icon, with unforgettable roles in many films. Arguably, his most enduring and memorable role was that of Luke Jackson, aka: Cool Hand Luke. Despite his success on screen, he remained grounded, channeling his fame into meaningful causes.
Newman’s passion wasn’t limited to acting. He also had a deep love for motor racing. The seed was planted while filming Winning in 1969 and he quickly became an accomplished driver, competing in professional races well into his 70s. He achieved numerous victories, including a class win at the 1979 24 Hours of Le Mans. Newman also owned a successful racing team, further cementing his legacy in the sport. His discipline and determination on the track mirrored his approach to life, proving he was more than just a movie star.
Off-screen, Newman made a lasting impact through his philanthropic work. In 1982, he founded Newman’s Own, a food company that donates 100% of its profits to charity. To date, the company has raised hundreds of millions of dollars for global causes, reflecting Newman’s commitment to giving back. Whether on the silver screen, the racetrack, or in the lives of those he helped, Paul Newman remains a symbol of talent, generosity and the drive to make a difference.
GEORGE
George Fellner was born February 5th, 1952. He is a living legend in the world of kart racing and the driving force behind Checkered Flag Racing, a premier kart racing team dedicated to nurturing talent of all ages. A former champion himself, George knows what it takes to succeed on the track and has spent decades passing on that wisdom to the next generation of racers. His old-school/no-nonsense approach to coaching has earned him a reputation as both a fierce competitor and a mentor who demands the very best from his drivers. With a relentless work ethic and a passion for the sport that’s second to none, George has poured his blood, sweat and tears into building a team that reflects his own grit and determination. Known for his larger-than-life personality, George is as tough as they come. His grizzled demeanor and sharp wit make him a beloved figure in the racing community. Yet despite the rough edges, his commitment to his drivers is unwavering. He’s not just teaching them how to race; he’s teaching them how to win, on and off the track.
At the track, George is a fixture, always cruising around in his custom golf cart, which is as iconic as the man himself. Whether it’s lending a competitor a part, offering tuning advice or sharing a story from his racing days, George’s presence is felt by everyone. But despite his gritty exterior, he’s the first to step in when someone needs help, embodying the camaraderie that the racing community thrives on. For George, it isn’t just about his team. It’s about everyone pushing their limits and bringing their best to the track.
Off the track, the Checkered Flag Racing shop is more than just a workspace. It is sacred ground for a motley crew of racing enthusiasts, a place where drivers, mechanics and dreamers come together over motors, machines, epic stories and the never ending pursuit of speed. It’s hard work all day. But at night George and his crew know how to play just as hard. His wife, Pat, is the heart of it all, keeping things running smoothly while making sure everyone who walks through the door feels like family. She’s seen it all: the late nights, the impossible rebuilds, the heartbreaks and the victories. Through it all, she is George’s rock. Together they’ve built something bigger than a team or a shop; they’ve built a legacy.
ARTINE
Artine Agazarian’s life began in poverty and chaos in the war-torn Middle East. He didn’t have the luxury of big dreams at a young age. Instead he spent the first decades of his life focused on surviving each day as it came. Artine’s journey was marked by several near-death experiences, including being shot by a tank at a young age and later being captured and forced to fight in the PLO army, where he was ironically made to operate the same kind of tank that almost killed him years earlier. He also spent time in an Israeli prison, enduring harsh conditions and mistreatment, even though he committed no crime.
Despite these immense challenges, Artine refused to be defeated. He found a way to stay alive and draw on his inner strength. He developed a talent for negotiation and salesmanship, which he used to make money selling goods on the street. Despite the violence and danger that surrounded him, Artine’s appreciation for the finer things in life, like the subtle flavors of spices and other culinary delights, never waned.
When Artine moved to Canada, he faced a whole new set of challenges as a foreigner in a new land. He had to adapt to a different culture and language, and he encountered new barriers to success. However, he refused to let these challenges hold him back. Instead, he drew on his experiences from his homeland to create a successful coffee business called Viva Java. He has become well respected in the Coffee Business with his incredible collection of beans and his unique and inspired roasting techniques. There simply isn’t a better place to get a cup of coffee, or a few pounds of exotic beans. Artine has a huge following of loyal customers, many of whom have become dear friends.
Artine’s journey is a testament to the power of determination and resilience in the face of adversity. He never gave up on himself, no matter how dire the circumstances. His unwavering spirit and inner strength allowed him to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles and achieve success on his own terms. Artine’s inspiring story serves as a reminder that even in the face of great adversity, we can find the strength to thrive and achieve our dreams.
GREG
Born on November 2, 1974, Greg Bland is the heart and soul of his own kings crew. You know him. He’s the guy who keeps everything running smoothly while making life a lot more fun. Whether it’s planning unforgettable golf trips for the boys, organizing hockey pools or making sure everyone’s schedules align, Greg is the one who brings people together for times that we’ll never forget, if we can remember them at all. He’s the first to wish you a happy birthday every year and the last to leave the party, proving he’s as thoughtful as he is legendary when it comes to having a good time.
Greg has a unique talent for living life to the fullest. His reputation for going harder than anyone else is well earned. When he sets his sights on something, look out. The harder the circumstances get, the better his golf game gets, an enviable skill that’s both baffling and awe inspiring. From live music to late-night laughs, he’s always finding ways to get his friends together and make every moment count. Beyond the good times, Greg is also a master crane operator, a devoted husband and a proud father, balancing his family and professional life with the same dedication he shows to his friends.
Greg isn’t just a friend. He’s the guy you count on, the one who keeps everyone connected and the person who reminds you that life is better with great people around. Whether he’s stick handling a crane, on the golf course or front row at a concert, Greg embodies loyalty, fun and the rare ability to make everyone around him feel like they’re part of something special.
ENZO
After World War I Enzo Ferrari found himself alone and without a clear sense of direction. He had lost his father and his brother due to a flu outbreak in 1916. Now, with the war behind him, he had no family to turn to. He recalls sleeping on a park bench with no money in his pockets and no prospects. Despite this, Enzo’s never gave up on himself.
He began working for a local car manufacturer in Modena, Italy. But it wasn’t until he joined Alfa Romeo in the 1920s that he found his true calling in the racing world. Through his work with Alfa Romeo, Enzo established himself as a talented driver and mechanic and gained valuable experience that would later serve him well in his own racing endeavors.
Enzo Ferrari’s ruthless determination to succeed in the world of racing eventually led him to create his own team, Scuderia Ferrari, which would eventually become one of the most successful and iconic teams in the history of Formula One (F1). Under Enzo’s leadership, Scuderia Ferrari achieved numerous victories and championships, solidifying their place as one of the dominant forces in F1 racing.
In order to fund his racing team, Ferrari built and sold Ferrari road cars. In the process he became a global car culture icon. Each Ferrari had to be a modern work of art and a screaming testament to Italian Engineering.
Despite his passing in 1988, Enzo Ferrari’s impact on the sport of racing and the world of automotive engineering continues to be felt to this day. He was a true pioneer and visionary, whose fierce passion and determination continue to inspire generations of racers and engineers to strive for greatness.
CLINT
Born on May 31, 1930, in San Francisco, California, Clint Eastwood grew up during the Great Depression, developing a resilience and work ethic that would define his career. A shy and introverted teenager, he worked various odd jobs before trying his hand at acting. Despite early struggles and rejections, Eastwood’s rugged charm and distinctive presence landed him a breakthrough role as Rowdy Yates in the TV series Rawhide. This success opened the door to his legendary career in film.
Eastwood rose to international stardom as the stoic antihero in Sergio Leone’s Dollars Trilogy, redefining the Western genre and cementing his status as a cultural icon. Roles like “The Man with No Name” and later, Dirty Harry, showcased his unmatched ability to bring grit and complexity to characters. Eastwood didn’t stop at acting; he transitioned into directing, earning critical acclaim for films like Unforgiven, Million Dollar Baby, and Gran Torino. His ability to tell powerful, human stories has earned him multiple Academy Awards and a reputation as one of Hollywood’s greatest filmmakers.
Beyond the screen, Eastwood is a dedicated family man, accomplished musician and passionate advocate for conservation. Known for his independence and no-nonsense approach to life, Eastwood has built a legacy of excellence that spans decades. Whether as an actor, director, or cultural icon, Clint Eastwood remains a symbol of resilience, authenticity and enduring talent.
FRANK
Frank Williams is a well-known personality in the world of Formula One. He was born on April 16, 1942, in South Shields, England. He is best known for being the founder and former team principal of the Williams Formula One racing team.
Williams faced many challenges early in his life. He was involved in a car accident in 1966, which left him paralyzed from the waist down. However, he did not let this setback deter him from pursuing his passion for motorsports.
In 1969, Frank Williams founded the Frank Williams Racing Cars team, which later evolved into the Williams Formula One racing team. Despite facing financial difficulties in the early years, Williams was able to build a successful team that won numerous championships and races over the years.
Williams’ team won seven drivers’ championships and nine constructors’ championships between 1980 and 1997, making it one of the most successful teams in Formula One history. Some of the world’s best drivers, including Keke Rosberg, Nigel Mansell, Alain Prost, Damon Hill, and Jacques Villeneuve, have driven for the Williams team.
In addition to his success in motorsports, Williams has also been recognized for his contributions to the sport. He was awarded the CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) in 1999 for his services to British motorsport. He was also inducted into the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in 1997.
Despite facing numerous challenges throughout his life, Frank Williams persevered and achieved great success in the world of motorsports.
GILLES
Gilles Villeneuve was born in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec, Canada in 1950. He had a humble upbringing and had to drop ljout of school at the age of 16 to work to help support his family. However, his unquestionable talent and passion for racing led him to pursue a career in motorsports.
Gilles initially made a name for himself in snowmobile racing, winning several championships in Canada. He then transitioned to car racing, competing in local events in Quebec.
In 1976, Gilles caught the attention of Canadian businessman and former racing driver Eddy LePine, who sponsored him in Formula Atlantic. Gilles quickly proved his talent, winning the Canadian Formula Atlantic championship in his first year of racing.
In 1977, Gilles made his debut in Formula One, driving for the McLaren team. However, it wasn’t until he joined Ferrari the following year that he really began to make a name for himself. Enzo Ferrari himself had called Gilles and offered him a spot on the team after witnessing him beat all the F1 drivers in a support race in Montreal that year.
Gilles was known for his fearless racing style and his willingness to take risks on the track, and sometimes off the track. He was admired by fans for his never-give-up attitude and his ability to extract the maximum performance from his car, regardless of how many wheels it still had on it. He won .
Tragically, Gilles’ life was cut short in 1982, when he was killed in a crash during qualifying for the Belgian Grand Prix. Despite his short career and his six F1 wins, Gilles left a lasting impact on the world of motorsport and is still remembered as one of the most talented, exciting and likeable drivers of all time.
DON
Don Johnson was born on December 15, 1949, in Flat Creek, Missouri. He grew up in a modest household in Wichita, Kansas. The son of a farmer and a beautician, Johnson’s early years were far from glamorous. But he was a natural performer, getting his first taste of acting in high school theater, where his talent became evident. Despite a turbulent home life and a rebellious streak that got him into some trouble, Johnson’s charisma and drive led him to the University of Kansas and later the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco. It was there that his acting career began to take shape; although success did not come easily. His early years in Hollywood were marked by small roles, financial struggles and the challenge of standing out in a competitive industry.
Johnson’s breakthrough came in 1984 when he landed the role of James “Sonny” Crockett on the groundbreaking TV series Miami Vice. The show’s stylish depiction of undercover cops in Miami became a cultural phenomenon, with Johnson’s performance as the suave yet gritty Crockett earning him a Golden Globe and cementing his status as a style icon. Known for his pastel suits, Ferrari-driving swagger and tough persona, Crockett was a reflection of Johnson’s own resilience and cool demeanor. Miami Vice wasn’t just a TV show; it was a revolution in storytelling and visual aesthetics, and Johnson was at the heart of it. The role catapulted him to international fame. But it also brought immense pressure, with long filming schedules and the challenge of living up to the show’s success.
Beyond acting, Johnson had a passion for speed, which he channeled into competitive powerboat racing during the 1980s and 1990s. Known for his love of the water, he was a fierce competitor, winning multiple offshore world championships. His boat racing career showcased the same fearless determination that defined his acting roles. Whether navigating treacherous waves or piloting high-speed vessels at breakneck speeds, Johnson approached racing with the same all-in attitude that marked his Hollywood journey. Today, he remains an enduring figure in pop culture, remembered not only as Sonny Crockett but as a man who overcame challenges, embraced risks and left an indelible mark on both screen and sea.
JACQUES
Jacques Villeneuve was born on April 9, 1971, in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec, into a family already steeped in racing history. The son of legendary Formula 1 driver Gilles Villeneuve, Jacques grew up in the light and the shadow of greatness. His father was one of the most beloved and revered drivers Ferrari has ever had. His daring style and charisma made him a fan favorite. But tragedy struck in 1982 when Gilles died in a crash during qualifying for the Belgian Grand Prix. At just 11 years old, Jacques lost not only a father but also a larger-than-life hero. Despite the immense loss, Jacques carried the Villeneuve name forward with determination, channeling his grief into a deep desire to carve his own path in motorsport.
Jacques’s road to greatness was anything but easy. After starting his career in the European junior formula circuits, he faced skepticism from those who questioned whether he could live up to his father’s legacy, something Jacques insisted was not a part of his motivation. He was racing for himself and no one else. Undeterred, he worked tirelessly, honing his craft and earning a reputation as a skilled and fearless driver. His breakthrough came in 1995 when he won the prestigious Indy 500 and claimed the CART championship, becoming the youngest driver ever to achieve both feats in a single season. These triumphs proved that Jacques was not just Gilles’s son but a force to be reckoned with in his own right. His meteoric rise caught the attention of Formula 1; and in 1996 he made the leap to the pinnacle of motorsport, joining the Williams F1 team.
In 1997, Jacques achieved what many thought impossible: he became the first ever Canadian Formula 1 World Champion, securing the title in a dramatic finale against Michael Schumacher. With a combination of talent, grit and strategic brilliance, he brought Williams its final drivers’ championship to date. The victory was not just a personal triumph but a poignant tribute to his father’s unfulfilled dreams. Jacques’s career after F1 saw ups and downs, as he transitioned to other racing series and projects. But his legacy as one of the sport’s greats remains intact. From the grief-stricken boy who lost his hero to a champion who cemented the Villeneuve name in racing history, Jacques’s journey is a testament to resilience, talent and an unrelenting drive to succeed.
DALE
Born on April 29, 1951, in Kannapolis, North Carolina, Dale Earnhardt grew up immersed in racing, following in the footsteps of his father, Ralph Earnhardt, a successful short-track racer. Despite dropping out of high school to pursue his racing dreams, Dale faced a tough road to success, working odd jobs and scraping together opportunities to race. His hard-nosed work ethic and natural talent eventually paid. By the late 1970s, he was making waves in stock car racing. In 1979, he won Rookie of the Year, and a year later, he claimed his first Winston Cup Championship, cementing his place in the sport.
Earnhardt became known as The Intimidator for his aggressive driving style and fearless approach on the track. Over his career, he secured 76 NASCAR Cup Series victories, including seven championships, tying him with Richard Petty for the most in history. His iconic black No. 3 car became a symbol of dominance and determination, with fans and competitors alike respecting his unyielding spirit. One of his most famous victories came in the 1998 Daytona 500, a race he had tried to win for 20 years, solidifying his status as one of the greatest drivers in NASCAR history.
Off the track, Earnhardt was a family man and a mentor, helping to guide the careers of younger drivers, including his son, Dale Earnhardt Jr. Tragically, Dale’s life was cut short in a crash during the final lap of the 2001 Daytona 500, a moment that changed the sport forever. His legacy, however, lives on, not only in his records but in the enduring respect and admiration he commands as a symbol of toughness, talent and the relentless pursuit of victory.
KEN
Ken Block was not just a professional rally driver, he was a true driving legend who always pushed the limits of what was possible. He had an infectious energy and enthusiasm for the sport, and his passion for racing was palpable. Fans and competitors alike were drawn to his magnetic personality and his fearless approach to the racetrack.
Born in Long Beach, California, Ken’s love for cars began at a young age. He started racing in 1994 and quickly gained popularity in the rally world. He was a natural behind the wheel and always seemed to be having the time of his life. Whether he was drifting around corners or launching off jumps, Ken’s driving skills were truly impressive.
Despite facing numerous obstacles and challenges throughout his career, Ken never lost his love for racing. He continued to work hard, training intensively, and pushing himself to new limits. He was always looking for ways to improve and was never satisfied with mediocrity. In 2010, he founded the Hoonigan Racing Division, which quickly became one of the most successful rally teams in the world.
Ken’s incredible achievements on the racetrack earned him a legion of fans, both in the US and around the world. He was admired not only for his driving skills but also for his dedication and hard work. He was always willing to go the extra mile, and his commitment to excellence was truly inspiring.
Ken’s untimely death in 2022 was a huge loss to the rally world. But despite his tragic passing, his legacy lives on. He will always be remembered as a driving legend who inspired countless people to chase their dreams and never give up. His infectious enthusiasm, his love for racing, and his fearless approach to the sport will continue to inspire future generations of drivers.
MICHAEL
Born on January 3, 1969, in Hürth, Germany, Michael Schumacher’s journey to becoming one of the greatest Formula 1 drivers of all time began humbly at a local karting track run by his father. From a young age, Schumacher displayed remarkable talent and determination, dominating junior karting championships and catching the attention of racing scouts. Despite financial challenges, his relentless work ethic and focus propelled him through the ranks of motorsport, eventually earning him a spot in Formula 1 with the Jordan team in 1991.
Schumacher’s career reached legendary status with his move to Benetton, where he won back-to-back World Championships in 1994 and 1995, showcasing his unparalleled skill and precision. In 1996, he joined Ferrari, a team struggling to recapture its former glory. Schumacher’s leadership and talent transformed Ferrari into a dominant force, resulting in five consecutive World Championships from 2000 to 2004. Known for his ruthless competitiveness, meticulous preparation and his ability to perform under pressure, Schumacher set records most believed would never be broken including seven World Championships and 91 Grand Prix victories, only recently matched by a guy named Lewis Hamilton.
Off the track, Schumacher was equally remarkable, his charisma contagious. There were always a lot of laughs and smiles when Michael was in the room. A devoted family man, philanthropist and ambassador for motorsport, he donated millions to charity and worked tirelessly to promote road safety. Following a tragic skiing accident in 2013, Schumacher’s legacy endures not just through his records but through the respect and admiration he earned as a champion and a pioneer. Michael Schumacher remains a symbol of excellence, resilience and the relentless pursuit of greatness.
MEL GIBSON
