He was a two-time National Champion, won four poles for the Indianapolis 500, and is generally regarded as one of the greatest drivers of his era.

However, World War II suspended racing until 1946, denying Mays of what likely would have been the peak of his career.

In a race at Milwaukee, a fellow driver, Duke Dinsmore, was thrown from his car during an incident in the south turn.

Mays was leading the race and saw Dinsmore's body lying in the middle of the south turn.

Mays has been inducted into the following halls of fame: In addition, the Milwaukee Mile Indy car race traditionally run the weekend after the Indianapolis 500 was renamed in Mays' honor, recognizing not only his career and tragic death, but his selfless earlier actions in protecting Dinsmore.