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Eight new members honored at 16th Annual NARHoF Induction Ceremony

LINCOLN, Neb. — A standing-room-only crowd attended the 16th Annual Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, held at the Lincoln Firefighters Reception Hall on Friday night, Oct. 18.

Over 300 people were in attendance to enjoy visiting and bench racing with old friends and the events of the evening.

Guest speaker Jack Petty had everyone’s attention when he addressed the group.

Wayne Dake, during his introduction of Petty, asked for a show of hands of those who thought they had ever had a bad day.

Then, after listening to Petty talk about the Hutch Nationals and the multi-car crash that resulted in several cars bursting into flames—including Petty’s—he asked the group again if their bad day even came close Petty’s bad day.

Petty was severely burned and spent three months in the University of Kansas Medical Center.

Using a power point presentation with graphic pictures, Petty also discussed his racing career before and after that fateful day.

Yes, he raced again, winning more main events and a track championship.

Those inducted into the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame were Stan Cisar Jr., Mike Daly, Guy Deulin, Lawrence Hughes, Joe Kosiski, Eddie Rezac, Carson Smith and Dave Thomssen.

It was not possible to find living family members of Deulin and Hughes, and the NARHoF would be grateful if anyone reading this has information on either family would contact a NARHoF board member so that these men can be properly recognized.

The silent auction, with many unique items, was a big hit with some spirited bidding noted on several items.

This is one of the main fundraisers that enables the NARHoF to search out and recognize Nebraskans for their achievements in the sport of auto racing.

Always the gracious host, “Speedy” Bill Smith opened the Smith Collection of American Speed after the induction ceremony for everyone to tour.

A number of docents were on duty to answer questions and assist where needed.

It was a great evening, enjoyed by all.

The mission of the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame is to perpetuate the memories of individuals who have brought lasting fame and positive recognition to the state of Nebraska through their achievements in the sport of auto racing. Requirements for selection are: an individual must have been a Nebraska resident for at least two years; retired from the activity for which they are being honored for at least four years; or, if still active, have reached the age of 55 and have been involved in the sport for a minimum of 30 years. Further, an individual must have made significant accomplishments locally, regionally and going on to some national prominence.

For more information about the Nebraska Auto Racing Hall of Fame, visit www.narhof.com online or “like” our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/narhof.

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