Fred Rahmer made history Saturday when he passed pole-sitter Brian Leppo on the 14th lap and cruised to victory in the 30-lap of the All-Star Circuit of Champions feature at Lincoln Speedway.
The win was the 500th career win for Rahmer, who will be officially inducted into the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame on May 30.
Rahmer collected $5,000 for his victory. Doug Esh finished second, Leppo third, Alan Krimes fourth and Dale Bahney fifth. Lebanon Daily News
“I came out here and struggled to even qualify and I didn’t even win a feature my first year,” the Salfordville driver stated following his win Saturday at Lincoln. “Through all of the dedication of the people that have been with me through the years, it’s something I never thought in my life would ever happen.”
Rahmer, along with a large contingent of family and friends will make the trek west to Knoxville, Iowa for his induction ceremony on May 30.
Rahmer was at his best in Saturday’s 500th career feature win. He has 401 sprint car wins and 99 modified wins. He patiently waited in the second spot for nearly half of the race before making his winning move and driving to the win.
Like he does each week, Rahmer said none of his accomplishments would be possible without the car owners, sponsors and family that have been there for the ride.
“Throughout the 500 wins, from modifieds to here, I’m just fortunate to be with great people who have provided me with great equipment,” he said. “My wife (Deb) is a big part of it by putting up with it week-in and week-out. We haven’t been home on a weekend since I got out of high school but again, I’m fortunate to do this and I still like doing it.”
From the beginning back in 1986 — and car owners like Joe Harz, Bud Lawrence, Bob Stewart, Al Hamilton, the Cook’s, Jim Kline and most recently Chad Clemens — it’s been a whirlwind for Fred Rahmer.
And he summed it up best.
“I couldn’t be more proud of it all but to get into the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame is something I never thought I would achieve,” he added. Carlisle Sentinel
