Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Bar-B-Que
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July 25, 2009 - Chico, CA
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The 2009 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and BBQ at Chico's historic
Silver Dollar Speedway was a huge success. Dozens of alumni, members, and race fans
turned out despite the scorching temperatures. With the kind contributions by a
number of individuals and families there was more new memorabilia on display than ever
before. Special thanks to Tommy Herseth, and the entire Sherman Clark family for bringing
their priceless collection of collectibles for everyone to enjoy.
Memorabilia Tables
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It was clear this was not just a gathering of assorted people, but more of
a reunion for a tight-knit family of sorts. The personal bonds that are created in a
sport such as auto racing are stronger than the years of separation for people.
Hugs, handshakes and a good many tales were swapped and enjoyed as old friends and rivals
greeted each other - some meeting for the first time in decades.
John and Robbie Padjen, and Alan and Diane Handy, always the
quintessential hosts, provided a spread of delicious food and drinks which people enjoyed
while renewing old friendships and meeting new friends.
After a quick introduction and welcome by master of ceremonies Kenny
Briggs, the club president, Lloyd Burton addressed the crowd, thanking them for their
support and continuing enthusiasm for the organization. Lloyd explained that these
Hall of Fame nominations came from a group of peers, not an elected board, and that each
person who was nominated was done so by the community of racers. He pointed out some
of the key players in the club, such as Doug Bauer, Nick Porter, Bob Benefield, Bob
Carrel, and of course his lovely wife, Mary.
Pat Higginbotham
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The first inductee to be honored was Pat Higginbotham. Pat's
accomplishments include a list of wins and fast times in both auto racing and motorcycle
racing. Dave Bradway Sr. was the next nominee to be elected to the Hall of Fame.
However, he was enjoying an Alaskan cruise and couldn't attend the festivities.
Also being honored in absentia was Bill Durham. Bill began his racing career in
1955 at the old "Rock Pile" track on 8th Avenue in Chico. Through the
decades Bill remained strongly involved in the Northern California racing scene
participating in C.A.R.A., V.A.R.A. and other organizations.
Charlie DeFrates
Family
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Next Kenny and Lloyd invited to the stage the family of Charlie DeFrates.
Accepting the in memoriam plaque for Charlie were his two children, Lily and BJ and
BJ's wife. The family graciously accepted the award and reminisced about their
father's love of racing and how honored he would have been to receive the accolade.
One of the more touching moments came when the family of Sherman Clark
took to the podium to accept the memorial induction to the Hall of Fame. Clark was
in a class by himself, a true classic racer whose passion for the sport matched his
exceptional talent. Sherman became a fan of auto racing in 1951.
Francis and
Tim Clark
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Just a year later he hit the track and started his career which eventually
would include 9 point championships. In 1955 he bought a brand new Chevy off the showroom
and after stripping it out took it on the NASCAR circuit running the number 34. Though he
eventually retired from circle track racing he continued to race, running off-road course
from California to the Baja 1000. Although racing was his passion, his priority was
always his family. Sherman passed away in 2005 at the age of 85. His wife of 66 years,
Francis, and Grandson, Tim, took to the stage to accept the award for Sherman. When
asked to say a few words, Francis, with a tear in her eye, said "I just wish he were
still here."
It was then time to present the "Founders' Cup Award." This
award is given to persons who have played a vital role in the history of auto racing in
the northstate. This year the board of directors chose to honor Mr. Denton Hill.
In 1950 two promoters, Burt Baker and Jim Hensley came to Chico to propose some
auto races in the area. They contact Bill Brownell who in turn contacted local
motorcycle racer Denton Hill - and the rest is history. The team initiated the first
Hardtop races at the fairgrounds just one week later.
Denton Hill
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Denton went on to head up C.A.R.A (The Chico Area Racing Association) and
served as president of the group for many years. He was also a favorite flagman for
the local racing scene. But auto racing wasn't enough for this energetic man who
would run cars on Saturday nights and go motorcycle racing on Sundays. Always ready
to help out a fellow racer, whether it be wrenching on a ride, or sponsoring a struggling
team with sponsorship dollars, he was widely recognized as a true racer. He was also
instrumental in the founding of the historic Cycleland Speedway which is still in
operation and supports an extensive program of racing of many types. Denton, now 90
years old, arrived in his snappy orange original C.A.R.A. official shirt. He charmed
the crowd with his great acceptance speech and humble personality.
As the afternoon's festivities came to a close everyone came away feeling
that the event had been a huge success on a number of levels. Not only did it
fulfill the chartered goal of the club, to honor and preserve the history of racers and
the sport, but it brought together friends and family who vowed to continue to keep in
touch at future events.
We are all looking forward to the next BBQ and Hall of Fame Induction
Ceremony which will be hosted by Rick and Mary Faeth of Faeth Motorsports at Shasta
Raceway Park at the fairgrounds in Anderson. The event is scheduled for Saturday September
12, 2009 from 11:00am till 1:00pm with the award presentation at noon. Out-of-Towners
should check out the Gaia Hotel - http://gaiashasta.com/
the official lodging for the Shasta Raceway Park Vintage Midget events. They are located
practically right across the street. Gaia is proud to offer Shasta Raceway Park patrons a
$65 double occupancy rate which includes a healthy continental breakfast, this is over $30
off the standard rate. For reservations call (877)778-3977.
Following the event that evening will be the "Pop Porter Memorial
Race" featuring the BCRA Vintage Midgets, the USCA/BCRA Midgets, the National
Regional Qualifying Race for the Legends of the Pacific and Mini Stocks.
Thanks to everyone who made it a great day !!
- Jack Waterman
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