Converting my 68 OHC into a Sprint tribute. Did the Sprint package always come with the side stripes or was it an option?

Optional. My factory Sprint did not come with the stripes.

Like Marc said, an option for all cars. I plan on adding the stripe to my Sprint because I like the look.

Just curious, Larry - what color is your Sprint? For some reason, it seems to me that certain color combinations look better with a stripe than do others.

Stripes were not part of the "Sprint" package on the Firebirds. They were standard only on the A Bodies, (LeMans/Tempest) Could be deleted though. "Rally Stripes" were available on all models of the 67/68 Firebirds, not 69's.

You are correct, Sprint Stripes are bit of a misnomer, Rally Stripes is the more accurate description of the option. But the term Sprint Stripes is used all the time.

The original color of my car is Coronado Gold. I am planning on adding a black stripe to the car

here's a pic of the pin striping on my '68 if that helps

The stripes are HO stripes but you could get them on any car.

HO stripes are similar to the Rally stripes running between the wheel wells, but do not have the H and the O. HO stripes were available only on the 326/350 models with the 4bbl optioned engine. Although many put them on other models.