GORDON WOOLLEY
Gordon Woolley began his racing career at the Suicide Bowl, once winning seventeen straight feature events. He competed in modified and stock cars throughout Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi from 1946 to 1959.
Gordon joined the IMCA Sprint Car Circuit in the early 1960s, traveling across the United States for twelve years while finishing in the top ten in points ten of those years. In 1963, he became the first Texan to win the IMCA Sprint Car National Championship, and the first to do so with a Chevrolet engine. The Greater New York Sportswriters Association named him the most outstanding sprint car driver of 1963.
Gordon claimed numerous track and series championships throughout his illustrious career, including the 1963 Imperial Valley Championship and the 1967
Tri-State Championship in Hutchison, Kansas.
The long, tall, quiet-spoken Texan from Waco has been written about in various racing books and magazines and is a member of the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame in Knoxville, Iowa, the Racing Hall of Fame in Chapman, Kansas, the Big Car Racing Association Hall of Fame in Lincoln, Nebraska, the Knoxville Speedway Hall of Fame in Knoxville, Iowa and the Bellville Highbank Hall of Fame for Midgets and Sprints in Bellville, Kansas.
Gordon joined the IMCA Sprint Car Circuit in the early 1960s, traveling across the United States for twelve years while finishing in the top ten in points ten of those years. In 1963, he became the first Texan to win the IMCA Sprint Car National Championship, and the first to do so with a Chevrolet engine. The Greater New York Sportswriters Association named him the most outstanding sprint car driver of 1963.
Gordon claimed numerous track and series championships throughout his illustrious career, including the 1963 Imperial Valley Championship and the 1967
Tri-State Championship in Hutchison, Kansas.
The long, tall, quiet-spoken Texan from Waco has been written about in various racing books and magazines and is a member of the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame in Knoxville, Iowa, the Racing Hall of Fame in Chapman, Kansas, the Big Car Racing Association Hall of Fame in Lincoln, Nebraska, the Knoxville Speedway Hall of Fame in Knoxville, Iowa and the Bellville Highbank Hall of Fame for Midgets and Sprints in Bellville, Kansas.
BILL WHITE
Bill White’s career is highlighted by championship wins. From the 1955 mid-season championship at the Suicide Bowl to the 1975 state championship at Hillsboro Speedway, Bill garnered twenty championships and over four hundred feature wins in his forty year racing career.
Bill has competed in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Florida, Arizona, Iowa, Indiana, California, Ohio and Missouri in sprint cars, modifieds and supermodifieds. He earned the IMCA Rookie of the Year honor in 1966.
In addition to his wins and championships, Bill held track records at Pan American, Speed-O-Rama, Meyer Speedway, Corpus Christi, Heart O’ Texas and Hillsboro Speedway.
Bill dominated the modified division at Heart O’ Texas Speedway in the early 1970s. He was track champion in 1970, 1971 and 1972, winning forty-three feature events during that three year span.
Bill’s favorite racing memory is competing in the 1966 Little 500 in Indianapolis, Indiana, finishing second in Jim McElreath’s car.
Bill has competed in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Florida, Arizona, Iowa, Indiana, California, Ohio and Missouri in sprint cars, modifieds and supermodifieds. He earned the IMCA Rookie of the Year honor in 1966.
In addition to his wins and championships, Bill held track records at Pan American, Speed-O-Rama, Meyer Speedway, Corpus Christi, Heart O’ Texas and Hillsboro Speedway.
Bill dominated the modified division at Heart O’ Texas Speedway in the early 1970s. He was track champion in 1970, 1971 and 1972, winning forty-three feature events during that three year span.
Bill’s favorite racing memory is competing in the 1966 Little 500 in Indianapolis, Indiana, finishing second in Jim McElreath’s car.
J.T. CARPENTER
J.T. Carpenter raced from 1951 to 1993 and won races at the Suicide Bowl Speedway, the old Heart O’ Texas Speedway, the current Heart O’ Texas Speedway and at tracks throughout Central Texas.
J.T.’s most memorable win was a one hundred lap open competition race at Heart O’ Texas. Using a small V-8 Chevrolet engine built for drag racing, he lapped everyone on the track. In J.T.’s words, “It really made that little coupe fly.”
J.T. is a great ambassador for the sport of auto racing and Heart O’ Texas Speedway. He was always a fan favorite and would talk to anyone at anytime about dirt track racing.
J.T. enjoyed being at the track and racing. Win or lose, he always had fun.
J.T.’s most memorable win was a one hundred lap open competition race at Heart O’ Texas. Using a small V-8 Chevrolet engine built for drag racing, he lapped everyone on the track. In J.T.’s words, “It really made that little coupe fly.”
J.T. is a great ambassador for the sport of auto racing and Heart O’ Texas Speedway. He was always a fan favorite and would talk to anyone at anytime about dirt track racing.
J.T. enjoyed being at the track and racing. Win or lose, he always had fun.
BUD JAROSEK
Bud Jarosek accomplished in fifteen years of racing what some drivers can only dream of. Bud claimed six championships and hundreds of feature wins during his impressive driving career.
Bud won six consecutive modified championships at Heart O’ Texas Speedway. He and car owner Jack Bagby were nearly unstoppable during their time together.
In 1964, Bud and Jack built a coupe with a 230 cubic inch, six cylinder engine, just to see how competitive they could be against the V-8 Chevrolets. They were very successful, winning many races.
Bud’s most memorable racing moment was the 1962 Texas State Dirt Track Championship at Devil’s Bowl Speedway. Bud won the event and lapped defending champion, Bill White, three times during the one-hundred lap race.
Bud won six consecutive modified championships at Heart O’ Texas Speedway. He and car owner Jack Bagby were nearly unstoppable during their time together.
In 1964, Bud and Jack built a coupe with a 230 cubic inch, six cylinder engine, just to see how competitive they could be against the V-8 Chevrolets. They were very successful, winning many races.
Bud’s most memorable racing moment was the 1962 Texas State Dirt Track Championship at Devil’s Bowl Speedway. Bud won the event and lapped defending champion, Bill White, three times during the one-hundred lap race.
JOE STURDIVANT
Joe Sturdivant competed at the Heart O’ Texas Speedway and tracks throughout Texas for thirty-eight years. He began his career in the early 1960s driving for Mickey Tadlock, James Goodnight and Tommy Armstrong.
Joe won over two hundred and sixty feature events and twenty-eight championships in his career while driving for likes of Sammy Reed, George Green and Jack Bagby.
Joe later drove his own cars and would become a successful car owner. The Sturdivant Transmissions #1 wing modified driven by Paul White was one of the most successful teams during the heyday of the Texas All-Star Modified Series.
Joe, along with his wife Joyce, enjoyed traveling to the many tracks they raced at and getting to meet and befriend fellow competitors and fans.
Joe won over two hundred and sixty feature events and twenty-eight championships in his career while driving for likes of Sammy Reed, George Green and Jack Bagby.
Joe later drove his own cars and would become a successful car owner. The Sturdivant Transmissions #1 wing modified driven by Paul White was one of the most successful teams during the heyday of the Texas All-Star Modified Series.
Joe, along with his wife Joyce, enjoyed traveling to the many tracks they raced at and getting to meet and befriend fellow competitors and fans.
BO RAWDON
Bo Rawdon has transitioned from one of best dirt track racers in Texas to a successful track promoter. Bo amassed thirty-five championships and over five hundred feature wins during his thirty year driving career.
Bo has won track championships at Heart O’ Texas Speedway, Cowtown Speedway, Buffalo Park Speedway and Sportsdrome Speedway. He has also won the Texas All-Star Modified and NTRA series championships. In 1987, he won over ninety-five percent of the races at Heart O’ Texas and Cowtown Speedway.
Bo won the 1975 Figure 8 Championship and competed at the World Championship Figure 8 event in Islip, New York.
In 1990, Bo won the NASCAR Sunbelt Region Champion competing at Heart O’ Texas and Cowtown. In 1995, he began touring the country competing and winning with a V-6 engine at high profile modified races.
Bo retired from racing and became the promoter of Cowtown Speedway in 2004. He received the Lanny Edwards Promoter of the Year award from Texas Motor Speedway in 2006 and the 360 Sprint Car Promoter of the Year award in 2009. He is also helping his granddaughter Ashley begin her racing career.
Bo has won track championships at Heart O’ Texas Speedway, Cowtown Speedway, Buffalo Park Speedway and Sportsdrome Speedway. He has also won the Texas All-Star Modified and NTRA series championships. In 1987, he won over ninety-five percent of the races at Heart O’ Texas and Cowtown Speedway.
Bo won the 1975 Figure 8 Championship and competed at the World Championship Figure 8 event in Islip, New York.
In 1990, Bo won the NASCAR Sunbelt Region Champion competing at Heart O’ Texas and Cowtown. In 1995, he began touring the country competing and winning with a V-6 engine at high profile modified races.
Bo retired from racing and became the promoter of Cowtown Speedway in 2004. He received the Lanny Edwards Promoter of the Year award from Texas Motor Speedway in 2006 and the 360 Sprint Car Promoter of the Year award in 2009. He is also helping his granddaughter Ashley begin her racing career.
DALE BREEDLOVE
Dale Breedlove competed at race tracks across the county for thirty years. He has over twenty feature event wins at Heart O’ Texas Speedway and close to ninety feature wins at other tracks.
Dale has competed in modifieds, wing modifieds and super modifieds. He has driven for car owners Jack McCain, Tom Robinson, George Green, Sparky MacDonald, Cotter Stringer, Jack Bagby and Jimmy McElreath.
Dale’s most memorable racing moments were racing across the country in Jimmy McElreath’s cars.
Dale has competed in modifieds, wing modifieds and super modifieds. He has driven for car owners Jack McCain, Tom Robinson, George Green, Sparky MacDonald, Cotter Stringer, Jack Bagby and Jimmy McElreath.
Dale’s most memorable racing moments were racing across the country in Jimmy McElreath’s cars.
HENRY WITT JR.
Henry Witt, Jr. began his racing career when he received a 1973 Pontiac Lemans race car for collateral on a loan. After sharing driving duties with his brother Dennis that first season, Henry would later become one of the most dominate IMCA Modified racers in the United States.
In 1987, Henry began driving a late model for Glen Wilson at Heart O’ Texas, the beginning of twenty years of winning for the team. Henry raced with the NCRA Late Model series in 1988 winning Rookie of the Year honors. Henry won many features and multiple track championships in late models and wing modifieds from 1988 to 1997.
1998 saw Henry and the 701 Racing Team enter IMCA Modified racing. Henry would amass the most feature wins, in the shortest time, of any driver in the twenty-seven year history of IMCA modified racing. Henry recorded over two hundred and fifty feature wins, eight consecutive regional championships, six consecutive state championships and one national championship.
Henry retired from racing in 2007 while leading the IMCA modified national, regional and state point standings.
Henry did not quit racing, just driving. He is now racing horses.
In 1987, Henry began driving a late model for Glen Wilson at Heart O’ Texas, the beginning of twenty years of winning for the team. Henry raced with the NCRA Late Model series in 1988 winning Rookie of the Year honors. Henry won many features and multiple track championships in late models and wing modifieds from 1988 to 1997.
1998 saw Henry and the 701 Racing Team enter IMCA Modified racing. Henry would amass the most feature wins, in the shortest time, of any driver in the twenty-seven year history of IMCA modified racing. Henry recorded over two hundred and fifty feature wins, eight consecutive regional championships, six consecutive state championships and one national championship.
Henry retired from racing in 2007 while leading the IMCA modified national, regional and state point standings.
Henry did not quit racing, just driving. He is now racing horses.
ELDON DOTSON
Eldon Dotson’s racing career began with the desire to drive a car. When he lost his driver’s license, he bought his first race car so he could drive. His wife Brenda would drive the car to the track allowing Eldon to become one of the great dir track racers from the state of Texas.
Eldon competing across the country winning hundreds of races and was a fan favorite wherever he raced. Eldon competed regularly at Heart O’ Texas in the late 70s and after racing to the track from north of Dallas, was always one of the drivers to beat on the track.
Eldon has two career starts in what is now the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. Eldon competed at Darlington Raceway and Daytona International Speedway in 1985.
Eldon Dotson passed away on November 9, 1997.
Eldon competing across the country winning hundreds of races and was a fan favorite wherever he raced. Eldon competed regularly at Heart O’ Texas in the late 70s and after racing to the track from north of Dallas, was always one of the drivers to beat on the track.
Eldon has two career starts in what is now the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. Eldon competed at Darlington Raceway and Daytona International Speedway in 1985.
Eldon Dotson passed away on November 9, 1997.
ROY EWING
Rapid Roy Ewing built his first race car in the winter of 1973 with Keith Green and David Golden. That 1955 Chevrolet finished in the top five in points and won ten feature events with Keith and David sharing driving duties during the 1974 season. Roy began driving the following season, in 1975.
Roy was claimed nine track championships, over two hundred feature wins and two Heart O’ Texas Speedway Fall Classic championships in his driving career. He also was the recipient of the Most Popular Driver award at Heart O’ Texas Speedway.
In 1993, Roy competed in both the late model and hot stock divisions, winning twenty-two features and both track championships.
Racing was always a family affair for Roy. His father Don and brother J.D. have long been fixtures at the speedway. His son Ty, daughter Shanna and son-in-law Brandon were all involved with Roy’s racing.
Roy’s most memorable moment was his last race, the 2005 Fall Classic. On the pace lap, the other competitors let Roy pace the field while the fans and fellow competitors saluted him with a standing ovation. Roy went on the win the race with Keith Green, who he started his career with, finishing second.
Roy was claimed nine track championships, over two hundred feature wins and two Heart O’ Texas Speedway Fall Classic championships in his driving career. He also was the recipient of the Most Popular Driver award at Heart O’ Texas Speedway.
In 1993, Roy competed in both the late model and hot stock divisions, winning twenty-two features and both track championships.
Racing was always a family affair for Roy. His father Don and brother J.D. have long been fixtures at the speedway. His son Ty, daughter Shanna and son-in-law Brandon were all involved with Roy’s racing.
Roy’s most memorable moment was his last race, the 2005 Fall Classic. On the pace lap, the other competitors let Roy pace the field while the fans and fellow competitors saluted him with a standing ovation. Roy went on the win the race with Keith Green, who he started his career with, finishing second.
MORRIS SMILEY
Morris Smiley began his racing career in 1967 at Waco Speedway, capturing may feature wins and a track championship. He was the 1968 Heart O’ Texas Speedway Modified champion, winning 19 out of 21 events. His 20-year career is highlighted by more than 100 feature event wins and eight track championships.
Morris drove for the Johnson brothers, Bill Webb and his family owned modifieds with engines built by the legendary Jack Bagby.
Morris was considered by many as one of the best of his time. Morris Smiley passed away on June 28, 2005, still loving auto racing.
Morris drove for the Johnson brothers, Bill Webb and his family owned modifieds with engines built by the legendary Jack Bagby.
Morris was considered by many as one of the best of his time. Morris Smiley passed away on June 28, 2005, still loving auto racing.
DANNY RANDOPLH
Danny Randolph began racing go-karts at the age of 18 at the Westview Center parking lot and later at the airport kart track. He started driving stock cars in 1961 in a 1949 Ford he built with Joe Smith. In 1964, he started a ten year stint driving Elmer Sheppard’s No. 41 Sawdust Special. He ended his driving career behind the wheel of sprint cars from 1970 to 1974.
Danny raced and won at the original Heart O’ Texas Speedway in Lincoln City, the current speedway, Waco Speedway, Thunderbird Speedway, Cowtown Speedway, Temple Speedway, Belton Speedway, Big D Speedway and Mood and Clary Speedway.
Danny retired from racing in 1974 and devoted his time acquiring his pilot’s license. He served the community of Leroy for over 20 years with the volunteer fire department, 12 of those years as fire chief. Danny is regarded as one of best sportsmen in the history of the speedway.
Danny raced and won at the original Heart O’ Texas Speedway in Lincoln City, the current speedway, Waco Speedway, Thunderbird Speedway, Cowtown Speedway, Temple Speedway, Belton Speedway, Big D Speedway and Mood and Clary Speedway.
Danny retired from racing in 1974 and devoted his time acquiring his pilot’s license. He served the community of Leroy for over 20 years with the volunteer fire department, 12 of those years as fire chief. Danny is regarded as one of best sportsmen in the history of the speedway.
ROBERT PRYOR
Robert Pryor was introduced to racing when he married 2010 inductee J.T. Carpenter’s daughter Anita in 1955. His first race car was his wife’s car. J.T. talked him into taking the windows out, race the car, then put the windows back in and nobody would know. However, Robert hit head-on with another car and wrecked his wife’s car.
One of Robert’s best memories was ended Bill White’s Modified feature win streak of more than one year by passing Bill on the 25th lap of the 30-lap event.
Robert and J.T. would race on Friday at Heart O’ Texas Speedway, work on the car during the day on Saturday then load up and race in Crandall, Mesquite, Fort Worth, Killeen, Hillsboro or Navasota that night.
Robert has two track championships at Thunderbird Speedway to go along with his many feature wins at Heart O’ Texas Speedway.
Racing has been a family affair for the Pryors. “It just gets in your blood,” says Robert.
One of Robert’s best memories was ended Bill White’s Modified feature win streak of more than one year by passing Bill on the 25th lap of the 30-lap event.
Robert and J.T. would race on Friday at Heart O’ Texas Speedway, work on the car during the day on Saturday then load up and race in Crandall, Mesquite, Fort Worth, Killeen, Hillsboro or Navasota that night.
Robert has two track championships at Thunderbird Speedway to go along with his many feature wins at Heart O’ Texas Speedway.
Racing has been a family affair for the Pryors. “It just gets in your blood,” says Robert.
STEVE STEWART
Kentucky native Steve Stewart found himself in Waco after being stationed at Fort Hood Army Base. He lived in the Waco area for 22 years and raced in Waco, Temple, Dallas and Fort Worth for 13 years.
Steve has over 100 feature event wins to his credit including nine in a row in 1967 at Heart O’ Texas Speedway. During his career he drove for Buck Pickens, Bob Black and A.M. Blevins.
Steve is the father of seven children, including several that followed in his footsteps to become race car drivers.
Steve now calls Boise, Idaho home.
Steve has over 100 feature event wins to his credit including nine in a row in 1967 at Heart O’ Texas Speedway. During his career he drove for Buck Pickens, Bob Black and A.M. Blevins.
Steve is the father of seven children, including several that followed in his footsteps to become race car drivers.
Steve now calls Boise, Idaho home.
JOHNNIE T. BARRETT
Johnnie T. Barrett began his racing career in Rockdale, Texas in 1956 with a car he built. During his career he competed at tracks in Thorndale, Temple, Austin, Dallas, Benbrook, Crandall and Waco, with Heart O’ Texas Speedway being his favorite track.
Johnnie won two track championships in his career and accumulated numerous trophy dash, feature event and demolition derby wins.
Johnnie drove for Wendell Powell, Doug Baxter, Bob Black, Lynn Douger and the Gaston brothers throughout his career.
Johnnie retired from racing in 1969 after purchasing the Dr Pepper distributorship in Cameron.
Johnnie T. Barrett passed away on March 16, 2010 at the age of 78. Never losing his love for racing, his family had a race car placed on the tombstone at his gravesite.
Johnnie won two track championships in his career and accumulated numerous trophy dash, feature event and demolition derby wins.
Johnnie drove for Wendell Powell, Doug Baxter, Bob Black, Lynn Douger and the Gaston brothers throughout his career.
Johnnie retired from racing in 1969 after purchasing the Dr Pepper distributorship in Cameron.
Johnnie T. Barrett passed away on March 16, 2010 at the age of 78. Never losing his love for racing, his family had a race car placed on the tombstone at his gravesite.
CLARENCE JACKSON
Clarence Jackson started racing in the early 1960s. He was an accomplished motorcycle racer and held the top speed record at old Lake Waco drag strip of 128 mph on a Triumph.
George Green and Dale Breedlove influenced Clarence to give dirt track racing a try. He was considered an innovator in both motorcycle and car racing.
Clarence is a multi-time winner in the Modified division.
George Green and Dale Breedlove influenced Clarence to give dirt track racing a try. He was considered an innovator in both motorcycle and car racing.
Clarence is a multi-time winner in the Modified division.
PETE LAPOINT
Pete LaPoint was born in Ohio and came to Waco while stationed at James Connally Air Force Base. Pete was a fan while serving but never intended to race because he was planning on moving back to Ohio after his stay at Connally. He married a local woman and they decided to stay in the Waco area, giving Pete the chance to start racing.
His first car was a 1933 six-cylinder Chevrolet sponsored by Kelly’s Auto Parts. He won three consecutive stock car championships. Starting from the rear of the field, he won as many as 20 feature events each of those years.
Pete’s most memorable race was a 50-lap open competition event at Heart O’ Texas. Pete showed up with his six-cylinder Chevy sedan, started 18th and racing his way to 3rd against cars with big V-8s and multiple carburetors.
Pete’s trademark was to light a cigarette before the start of the race, smoke it during the first two laps then toss it out the window on the back straight of the third lap. When the cigarette was tossed out, Pete was heading to the front of the pack.
Pete LaPoint passed away on February 16, 1979 in Ohio.
His first car was a 1933 six-cylinder Chevrolet sponsored by Kelly’s Auto Parts. He won three consecutive stock car championships. Starting from the rear of the field, he won as many as 20 feature events each of those years.
Pete’s most memorable race was a 50-lap open competition event at Heart O’ Texas. Pete showed up with his six-cylinder Chevy sedan, started 18th and racing his way to 3rd against cars with big V-8s and multiple carburetors.
Pete’s trademark was to light a cigarette before the start of the race, smoke it during the first two laps then toss it out the window on the back straight of the third lap. When the cigarette was tossed out, Pete was heading to the front of the pack.
Pete LaPoint passed away on February 16, 1979 in Ohio.
JR. INGRAM
Jr. Ingram raced for 40 years in many classes, including Wing Modifieds, at Heart O’ Texas Speedway. Jr. always drove cars he owned and built his own chassis and motors. He accomplished more with less than anyone who has raced at the speedway.
RAY RAWDON
Ray Rawdon is from Kennedale, Texas and has raced and won at tracks throughout the state, including Heart O’ Texas Speedway. Ray was known as a tough, hard-nosed competitor that was always racing for the win. Ray is the father of 2010 inductee and Cowtown Speedway promoter, Bo Rawdon.
HAL FREEMAN
Hal Freeman, driving the white Barbahl Special was one of the best in the history of the speedway. In addition to winning championships and many races at Heart O’ Texas Speedway, Hal was well known at tracks in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.
HAROLD McCAIN
Harold McCain started his racing career at the old Suicide Bowl as a flagman. When the track closed due to the Lake Waco expansion, Harold made the decision to build and run his own race track. Harold first leased property near Lincoln City which is very close to the current location of the speedway. He operated at that location for six years under the name of Heart O’ Texas Speedway. Some of the biggest names in Waco auto racing history at that speedway.
Harold later purchased property in Elm Mott at the current location and built the second Heart O’ Texas Speedway. He operated the speedway for many years until selling the track to Gene Adamcik and Richard Rogers in 1981.
The Heart O’ Texas Speedway name has been around for more than fifty years and is recognized around the nation for its continued operation and producing many great drivers. We all owe many thanks Harold for his vision and courage to build a racing facility that has earned a legacy which will live on forever.
Harold later purchased property in Elm Mott at the current location and built the second Heart O’ Texas Speedway. He operated the speedway for many years until selling the track to Gene Adamcik and Richard Rogers in 1981.
The Heart O’ Texas Speedway name has been around for more than fifty years and is recognized around the nation for its continued operation and producing many great drivers. We all owe many thanks Harold for his vision and courage to build a racing facility that has earned a legacy which will live on forever.
JACK BAGBY
Jack Bagby began his career in racing as a driver at the old Suicide Bowl. Jack quickly learned driving was not his expertise and made the decision to made cars for others to drive.
Jack once built a car driven by Gordon Woolley at the Suicide Bowl that won so many races, the track purchased the car and had it destroyed. Over time, Jack earned the reputation of being one of the most innovative and successful car builder and mechanic the sport has known.
Jack’s cars and drivers won hundreds of features throughout his career, including winning nine consecutive championships with driver Bud Jarosek.
Jack was always willing to lend a hand at the race track, even to his closest competition.
Many of Jack’s drivers are current and future members of the Heart O’ Texas Speedway Wall of Fame including Bud Jarosek, Dale Breedlove, Mike Knowles and Gordon Woolley.
Jack once built a car driven by Gordon Woolley at the Suicide Bowl that won so many races, the track purchased the car and had it destroyed. Over time, Jack earned the reputation of being one of the most innovative and successful car builder and mechanic the sport has known.
Jack’s cars and drivers won hundreds of features throughout his career, including winning nine consecutive championships with driver Bud Jarosek.
Jack was always willing to lend a hand at the race track, even to his closest competition.
Many of Jack’s drivers are current and future members of the Heart O’ Texas Speedway Wall of Fame including Bud Jarosek, Dale Breedlove, Mike Knowles and Gordon Woolley.
GEORGE GREEN
George Green is the patriarch of the one of Waco’s most well-known racing families. George began his racing career as a driver and had great success as a car owner.
George’s first driver was Joe Sturdivant, the two enjoyed great success winning championships and many feature events. Once his son Keith began showing promise behind the wheel of a hobby car, George purchased a winning modified car from Jack Bagby. The father and son combination would become a dominant force in Modified racing throughout Texas for many years.
A great ambassador for the sport of auto racing, George has supported many drivers over the years including Roy Ewing, Clarence Jackson, Dale Breedlove and Wendell Cox.
Today, George proudly supports the racing careers of grandsons T.J. and Kevin.
George’s first driver was Joe Sturdivant, the two enjoyed great success winning championships and many feature events. Once his son Keith began showing promise behind the wheel of a hobby car, George purchased a winning modified car from Jack Bagby. The father and son combination would become a dominant force in Modified racing throughout Texas for many years.
A great ambassador for the sport of auto racing, George has supported many drivers over the years including Roy Ewing, Clarence Jackson, Dale Breedlove and Wendell Cox.
Today, George proudly supports the racing careers of grandsons T.J. and Kevin.
LEON WILSON
Leon Wilson will always be remembered as one of the true gentlemen in the sport of auto racing. Leon began his career as part-owner and driver at the old Heart O’ Texas Speedway.
Leon was a long-time car builder, engine builder and owner who more than most working on a limited-budget. Leon was always willing to lend a hand to competitors, even if it meant his car would not win the race.
Leon always took time to visit with race fans after events and showed a great deal of compassion for children. Leon knew that kids held the key to the future of the sport and always wanted them to have a memorable experience at the track.
Many of the great drivers in Heart O’ Texas Speedway history have driver for Leon including David Hammon, Carroll Edmonds, Greg Pavlicek, Gordon Woolley, Lee Harris and Billy Suggs.
Leon was a long-time car builder, engine builder and owner who more than most working on a limited-budget. Leon was always willing to lend a hand to competitors, even if it meant his car would not win the race.
Leon always took time to visit with race fans after events and showed a great deal of compassion for children. Leon knew that kids held the key to the future of the sport and always wanted them to have a memorable experience at the track.
Many of the great drivers in Heart O’ Texas Speedway history have driver for Leon including David Hammon, Carroll Edmonds, Greg Pavlicek, Gordon Woolley, Lee Harris and Billy Suggs.
TOM DANIEL
Tom Daniel began his racing career in the early 1950s and is one of a few drivers that have competed at the Suicide Bowl and both the old and current Heart O’ Texas Speedway.
Tom raced with many Heart O’ Texas Speedway Wall of Fame members including Gordon Woolley, Bill White, Bud Jarosek and J.T. Carpenter. Tom also raced throughout Texas against Texas racing legends such as Johnny Rutherford and Jimmy McElreath.
After retiring from driving, Tom built cars for his sons Chuck and Steve and daughter Patty. He won four championships with Chuck, four Powder Puff championships with Patty and many races with Steve.
To honor Tom after his death, all the drivers that Tom had helped were asked to bring their cars on the track. Cars were lined up nose-to-tail all the way around the track, a true symbol of the impact Tom had on racing in Waco.
Tom raced with many Heart O’ Texas Speedway Wall of Fame members including Gordon Woolley, Bill White, Bud Jarosek and J.T. Carpenter. Tom also raced throughout Texas against Texas racing legends such as Johnny Rutherford and Jimmy McElreath.
After retiring from driving, Tom built cars for his sons Chuck and Steve and daughter Patty. He won four championships with Chuck, four Powder Puff championships with Patty and many races with Steve.
To honor Tom after his death, all the drivers that Tom had helped were asked to bring their cars on the track. Cars were lined up nose-to-tail all the way around the track, a true symbol of the impact Tom had on racing in Waco.
ELMER SHEPPARD
Elmer Sheppard is a pioneer of dirt track racing in Waco. He was one of the first to build and race winning cars.
Elmer built and owned many championship winning cars including the well-known #41 Sawdust Special. He is best known for his knowledge and ability to make Flathead Fords win races.
Elmer’s drivers included Horace Richie, Billy Jack Casper, Bill White and Danny Randolph.
Elmer’s love of the dirt track racing inspired many to become a part of the sport including Danny Randolph, Joe Smith and many of his family members.
Elmer built and owned many championship winning cars including the well-known #41 Sawdust Special. He is best known for his knowledge and ability to make Flathead Fords win races.
Elmer’s drivers included Horace Richie, Billy Jack Casper, Bill White and Danny Randolph.
Elmer’s love of the dirt track racing inspired many to become a part of the sport including Danny Randolph, Joe Smith and many of his family members.
BOB TIDWELL
Bob Tidwell started his racing career in the early 1960s working with the Reed brothers. He soon became a car owner, buying his first car without engine from Ed Starr and teamed up with Donny Rowe and his engine. After two races, they had lost both the chassis and engine. They built a new car and changed the number to the familiar #15.
Bob teamed up with Jerry Rogers at the Hillsboro speedway and went on to win many races together until Jerry’s driving career ended due to an accident.
Bob then purchased a car driven by Eldon Dotson and hired wife Sheila as the driver. The two were part of the North Texas Racers Association and competed at Buffalo Park Speedway, Thunderbird Speedway, Cowtown Speedway and Heart O’ Texas Speedway for many years. A rule change not allowing big block engines was the determining factor for Bob and Sheila to retire from racing.
Bob has received many awards for his racing accomplishments, but the most memorable one is receiving the first Keith McCain Memorial Trophy from Harold and Peggy McCain.
Bob and Sheila continue to attend races today as fans.
Bob teamed up with Jerry Rogers at the Hillsboro speedway and went on to win many races together until Jerry’s driving career ended due to an accident.
Bob then purchased a car driven by Eldon Dotson and hired wife Sheila as the driver. The two were part of the North Texas Racers Association and competed at Buffalo Park Speedway, Thunderbird Speedway, Cowtown Speedway and Heart O’ Texas Speedway for many years. A rule change not allowing big block engines was the determining factor for Bob and Sheila to retire from racing.
Bob has received many awards for his racing accomplishments, but the most memorable one is receiving the first Keith McCain Memorial Trophy from Harold and Peggy McCain.
Bob and Sheila continue to attend races today as fans.
JERRY ROGERS
Jerry Rogers began racing career sharing driving duties with friend Steve Snow. After several years, the two decided they each wanted to race weekly and Jerry built a Vega that that has been called the best built and best-looking car in the history of the Heart O’ Texas Speedway.
After campaigning the Vega for many successful years, Jerry teamed up with Bob Tidwell. Jerry and Bob would win many features for several years until Jerry was injured driving a super modified that ended his driving career.
Jerry returned to the track and was a fixture at the speedway for many years as flagman and tech official.
Jerry always has a smile on his face and is regarded as one of the genuinely nice guys around the track.
After campaigning the Vega for many successful years, Jerry teamed up with Bob Tidwell. Jerry and Bob would win many features for several years until Jerry was injured driving a super modified that ended his driving career.
Jerry returned to the track and was a fixture at the speedway for many years as flagman and tech official.
Jerry always has a smile on his face and is regarded as one of the genuinely nice guys around the track.
DON EWING
Don Ewing joins his son Roy as an inductee in the Heart O’ Texas Speedway Wall of Fame. Don and Roy raced together as a family from the 1970s until Roy retired from driving in 2005.
With Don’s knowledge and Roy’s driving ability, the duo, along with Don’s son J.D., claimed nine championships and more than 200 feature event wins. The team doubled up one season, winning both the Late Model and Hot Stock track championships.
Mr. Ewing was a gentlemen racer who was respected by his fellow competitors and had equal respect for them.
With Don’s knowledge and Roy’s driving ability, the duo, along with Don’s son J.D., claimed nine championships and more than 200 feature event wins. The team doubled up one season, winning both the Late Model and Hot Stock track championships.
Mr. Ewing was a gentlemen racer who was respected by his fellow competitors and had equal respect for them.
LEON BROWN
Leon Brown began his racing career at the old Suicide Bowl in 1949. He started out as a car builder and driver, but decided he wanted to be a car owner and builder rather than a driver.
Leon’s racing career was put on hold while he served in the Army. After serving his country, Leon returned to racing as a car builder and owner.
Leon has visited victory lane many times with drivers such as Jimmy Clark, JD Kirkpatrick, Bubba Webb, Jerry Simpson, David Andrews, Doug Andrews and Gordon Woolley. Gordon and Leon teamed up for one track championship.
A familiar face around the speedway for over sixty years, Leon is still involved in the sport as a sponsor for Doug Andrews #1 Street Stock.
Leon’s racing career was put on hold while he served in the Army. After serving his country, Leon returned to racing as a car builder and owner.
Leon has visited victory lane many times with drivers such as Jimmy Clark, JD Kirkpatrick, Bubba Webb, Jerry Simpson, David Andrews, Doug Andrews and Gordon Woolley. Gordon and Leon teamed up for one track championship.
A familiar face around the speedway for over sixty years, Leon is still involved in the sport as a sponsor for Doug Andrews #1 Street Stock.
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