The articles mention his win from 1973 and it fits with the sacrifice.

he made his sacrifice in 73′

the date of the race.. 10/7/73

dead at age 86

rewarded as part of skull and bones.

Skull and Bones are also known as Order 322, or Brotherhood of death.

Lester dies on the 149th day of the year which also leaves 216 in the year

149= skull and bones

6*6*6=216 the number of the beast.