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Keokuk Iowa Racers Reunion
Keokuk, Iowa has long been called the "Home of Champions" or
the "Racing Capital of the World". Four of Keokuk's more famous
drivers were Ernie Derr, Don White, Ramo Stott and Dick Hutcherson.
Ernie Derr is the most winning driver of all Keokuk residents who
raced from 1950-1974. Ernie has 12 National Championships to his
credit and an all-time record of approximately 350 first place
finishes.
Don White raced USAC, ARCA and IMCA circuits from 1950-1972.
Don is the all-time USAC stock car champion in 1954, 1955 and 1958.
Ramo Stott raced from 1967-1977 and 1984. Ramo, former ARCA and
reigning USAC stock car champion, won the pole for the 1976 Daytona
500.
Dick Hutcherson raced IMCA and ARCA from 1963-1967. He won
the IMCA driving title twice in 1963 and 1964. Dick headed south to
NASCAR in 1965 and finished second in overall points to Ned Jarret.
He finished second behind Richard Petty in 9 races. Dick decided to
quit racing even though he was becoming quite successful as a NASCAR
driver.
Some other well known Keokuk drivers were Gordon Blankenship
Sr., Ron Hutcherson, Jerry McCredie, Lem Blankenship and Darrel
Bradley. The surrounding Tri-State area also provided many
outstanding racing teams that added to the competitive nature of the
sport.
We would like to have a Keokuk Racers Reunion. it would
enable everyone to get together as well as getting the community
involved. This is a not-for-profit even so all proceeds and
donations go towards the costs of a meal for the drivers, pit crew
and sponsors, and all fans that stop by to meet the racers, as well
as for all advertising and entertainment.
KOKX will be there with their big radio doing live
broadcasts. The local cablevision will have some information and
advertising as well as more media coverage. In order to accomplish
this we are accepting donations from local businesses and families
to cover all costs.
This event will take place Saturday May 10, 2003 starting at
Noon at the old Sill/McCredie building located at 3971 Main Street
Road. This is next to the McCredie Little League Ballpark. The meal
will be served at noon for the racers, pit crew, and sponsors. About
2:00 P.M. the general public will be invited to join the reunion to
meet the racers and have their meal.
Throughout the afternoon there will be memorabilia to look at
and many stories to share of favorite racing moments in Keokuks'
racing history.
All donations for this event are greatly appreciated. If you
would like more information or to make a donation, please contact
Joe Shuman 319-524-2742 or Joyce Milligan 319-524-5101. Kirk
Brandenburger of
Keokuk Area Convention and Tourism
may also be contacted at 800-383-1219.
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