The Winningest Stock Car Driver In America

From the Dells Motor Speedway 1973 program
In 1972 Dick Trickle of Wisconsin Rapids took the title of the winningest stock car driver in America by charging to 67 feature wins. The previous record of 58 feature wins in one season was held by Ramo Stott of Keokuk, Iowa. Dick earned his wins by starting 105 feature events on 14 different tracks in five states during the sixth month race season.

At the Dells Motor Speedway, Trickle swept the special races as he won all three 100 lap Open Competition Races, the Modified vs. Late Model Race and the Midwest Championship 200. On Saturday nights he won seven features and recorded five fast times to finish second in the point standings.

Dick’s car was #99, a purple 70 Mustang Mach I powered by a 427 c.i. tunnel port engine. It was sometimes criticized as an “unsophisticated” racer because much of it was built with Trickle’s own homemade setups but it ran with the best and beat the best. When Dick started racing, everyone had to devise their own homemade equipment because no one could afford anything better. Now in the 70’s when Trickle comments on his car, he admits that he could afford all of the fancy gear but he still prefers some of his “backyard” set ups because they work so well for him.

With 15 years of experience backing him, he can set his car up to race on any track in any groove. He drives with fearless determination and super clean precision. He loves racing’s challenges and competition and for Trickle it’s not just a job but a way of life. Even during the winter months you will see him racing his Yamaha snowmobile.

Dick and his wife, Darlene, have three children-Vicky, 11; Todd, 10; and Chad, 1. He and his family live in a modern home on the outskirts of Wisconsin Rapids