Texhoma Racers Reunion & Hall of Fame

11/01/2025

Race Day 1941 Indianapolis 500: Wichita Falls native and Texhoma Racers Hall of Fame Inductee George Barringer looks down at his race car that was among the cars destroyed when the garage area caught fire on the morning of the race.

Wilbur Shaw, with his foot on the car, looks over the remains of one of the cars lost in 1941 Gasoline Alley fire. The fire started early on race morning and quickly spread through the old wooden garages. The men are looking at George Barringer's revolutionary rear engine, four-wheel drive Miller, sponsored by Gulf. It was completely destroyed in the fire and did not start the race. Wilbur Shaw, starting on the outside of the front row appeared to be on his way to his third consecutive 500 win, when a wheel collapsed, putting him into the wall. He had not gotten one of his wheels to balance and had marked it with chalk. He always believed that the chalk had been washed away by firemen's hoses. George Barringer in the hat. Driver, Deacon Litz, is the other man.

10/19/2025

It was an honor to share this moment with Shane Carson and our friends at Amarillo Area Motorsports Hall of Fame and Museum

Celebrating Legends and Preserving History

𝑯𝒊𝒈𝒉 𝑷𝒍𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒔 𝑻𝒉𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓 𝑩𝒐𝒏𝒖𝒔! ⚡️

Kevin Thomas, Jr. picked up an extra $2,000 for his efforts this weekend.

He earned the most combined points between the races on Friday at Dodge City Raceway Park & tonight at Route 66 Motor Speedway.

Tonight in Amarillo, he led 15 laps & finished 2nd.

10/05/2025

Texhoma Racers Hall of Fame – Recommendation Process
We’re now accepting recommendations for the 2026 Hall of Fame class. To make it easy, we’ve attached:
• Nomination Guidelines – who’s eligible and what we look for
• Step-by-Step How-To – what to include and how to submit
• Sample Biography – a clear example to follow

If you’d rather type directly, we have a fillable PDF nomination form available. Email us at (trrhof@gmail.com) and we’ll send you a copy.

Your stories and submissions help preserve our region’s racing history—thank you for being part of it!

10/02/2025

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/14KT6futawx/?mibextid=WC7FNe

07/03/2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

July 3, 2025

TEXHOMA RACERS HALL OF FAME ANNOUNCES 2025 INDUCTEES

The Texhoma Racers Hall of Fame is thrilled to announce its 2025 class of inductees, a distinguished group of individuals who have made significant contributions to the world of racing. This year's inductees represent a diverse array of talent and dedication, highlighting the rich history and vibrant community of motorsports in Texhoma.

Inductees:
Wayne Johnson
David Farmer
Eddie Hill
James McElreath
Jeff Taylor
Jim Uselton
Johnny Rutherford
Ronnie Jones
Bruce Jennings
Joe Wood Sr

The Texhoma Racers Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take place on September 27, 2025, at the Comanche County Fairgrounds in Lawton, OK. This event will celebrate the achievements of these remarkable individuals and their lasting impact on the racing community.

Join us in honoring these legends of racing and celebrating their incredible contributions to the sport.

Saturday
September 27, 2025
Comanche County Fairgrounds
920 SW Sheridan Rd
Lawton, Oklahoma

Doors Open: 10:00 am for Car Show and Bench Racing
Lunch Served: 12:00 pm with Induction Ceremony to follow
Admission $20 at the door (Includes Lunch)

02/08/2025

Dear Racing Community,
Do you know a driver who’s left fans on the edge of their seats? An owner whose dedication turned a local track into a legend? A mechanic whose expertise pushed a team to the podium? A media member who told our racing stories for the world to hear or shared pictures for the world to see? A track owner who gave us the stage for history in the making? A sponsor who helped fuel every thrilling lap?
The Texhoma Racers Hall of Fame is calling for nominations—and we want your story! Racing isn’t just about the checkered flag; it’s about the passion, perseverance, and people behind every roar of the engine. We’re seeking submissions from every corner of motorsport—drivers, owners, mechanics, media, track owners, and sponsors who shaped Texhoma’s racing legacy.
By submitting a bio (for someone you believe deserves recognition), you’re helping us preserve a legacy of champions and pioneers who made Texhoma racing unforgettable. Induction into the Hall of Fame means celebrating the very best that this sport has to offer—those who have transcended race results to embody the spirit of Texhoma motorsports.
Here’s what we need from you: See examples in the attached photos.
• A brief cover memo
• A brief one-page biography highlighting key milestones and achievements
Don’t let a worthy legacy remain untold. Shine a spotlight on a racing hero in your community. Submit your Hall of Fame bio today and help us honor the people who’ve shaped the track, the stands, and every corner in between.
Together, let’s celebrate the men and women who took the wheel—and all those who helped them reach the finish line.
Thank you for your support and look forward to receiving your recommendation!
Recommendations are due 1 March 2025.

Racing On,
Texhoma Racers Hall of Fame

12/30/2024

As we gather with family and friends over the holidays, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the individuals who’ve made a lasting impact on the racing world. 🏁✨
Take a moment to think about someone who deserves recognition in the Texhoma Racers Hall of Fame. Whether it’s a racer, mechanic, promoter, sponsor, or media member, now’s your chance to share their story with us!
How to Submit a Nomination for the Texhoma Racers Hall of Fame 🚨
📅 Submission Deadline: March 1
Want to honor someone in the Texhoma Racers Hall of Fame? Here's how:
1️⃣ Submit by USPS Mail or email, a Biography & Cover Memo:
Send a one-page typed biography and cover memo by March 1 to:
📬 Texhoma Racers Hall of Fame
P.O. Box 3520
Lawton, OK 73502
📧 Email: trrhof@gmail.com
2️⃣ Biography Requirements:
✅ Typed, one page (8.5" x 11").
✅ Clearly state the person’s name at the top.
❌ No self-nominations, endorsements, or photos.
🗂 Biographies remain valid for 5 years.
3️⃣ Cover Memo Details:
Include your name, relationship to the nominee, and the date of submission.
4️⃣ Submission Rules:
📩 Biographies postmarked/emailed by March 1 will be reviewed for this year’s induction.
❗ Late submissions roll over to the following year.
5️⃣ Review Process:
✔ Only one biography per nominee will be accepted per year.
✔ A maximum of 12 inductees will be selected annually.
6️⃣ Important Notes:
⚠ Biographies are for informational purposes only and not endorsed by the Hall of Fame.
⚠ Incomplete, self-nominated, or inaccurate biographies may be rejected.
⚠ Biographies will be eligible for 5 years. Another bio must be submitted after that point.
💬 Questions? Contact us at trrhof@gmail.com or here on Facebook!
🏁 Submit your nomination and help celebrate Texhoma’s racing legends! 🏁

11/23/2024

🚨 How to Submit a Nomination for the Texhoma Racers Hall of Fame 🚨

📅 Submission Deadline: March 1

Want to honor someone in the Texhoma Racers Hall of Fame? Here's how:

1️⃣ Submit by USPS Mail or email, a Biography & Cover Memo:
Send a one-page typed biography and cover memo by March 1 to:
📬 Texhoma Racers Hall of Fame
P.O. Box 3520
Lawton, OK 73502
📧 Email: trrhof@gmail.com

2️⃣ Biography Requirements:
✅ Typed, one page (8.5" x 11").
✅ Clearly state the person’s name at the top.
❌ No self-nominations, endorsements, or photos.
🗂 Biographies remain valid for 5 years.

3️⃣ Cover Memo Details:
Include your name, relationship to the nominee, and the date of submission.

4️⃣ Submission Rules:
📩 Biographies postmarked/emailed by March 1 will be reviewed for this year’s induction.
❗ Late submissions roll over to the following year.

5️⃣ Review Process:
✔ Only one biography per nominee will be accepted per year.
✔ A maximum of 12 inductees will be selected annually.

6️⃣ Important Notes:
⚠ Biographies are for informational purposes only and not endorsed by the Hall of Fame.
⚠ Incomplete, self-nominated, or inaccurate biographies may be rejected.
⚠ Biographies will be eligible for 5 years. Another bio must be submitted after that point.

💬 Questions? Contact us at trrhof@gmail.com or here on Facebook!

🏁 Submit your nomination and help celebrate Texhoma’s racing legends! 🏁

10/18/2024

The early history of dirt track racing in Wichita Falls

Part 1of2

Wanting to go fast in North Texas possibly began when a cowboy bet his horse was faster than the other cowboy’s horse. Since then, North Texans have gone fast on water, land, and air.
Focusing on land, Lake Wichita had possibly the first racetrack in Wichita Falls. Kemp and Kell developed the racetrack as one of the amusements to lure patrons to the lake. Lake Wichita later hosted sailing and powerboat racing.
In the 1920s, the Texas and Oklahoma Fair, located on the former Call Field location, presented horse racing and auto racing with vaudeville and circus acts. The races took place on a half-mile dirt track, well-oiled to hinder dust.
In 1939, a race track promoted by the TNT Motorcycle Club was located near Wichita Gardens. Called Westerleigh Hill, the track was also troubled by dust, and described as “heavily oiled.”
Speedrome of Wichita Falls opened in 1946. On the former location of American Refinery Co., the one-fifth-mile dirt track was developed by Abe Raben, Sid Goldwyn, Gerson Lapidius, and Morris Weil. The track featured a crash wall and the latest in safety devices. Located at approximately 1900 Sheppard Access Road (then called New Sheppard Field Highway), the track featured 2,500-capacity grandstands. After its opening in April 1946, buses left the corner of 9th and Indiana every 15 minutes on race day, carrying fans to the track. People such as Lloyd Ruby, Ralph Parkinson, and Roger Ward raced at the Speedrome.
On Saturday, October 19th at 3:00pm, a Texas Historical Commission maker honoring Lloyd Ruby will be dedicated on the 9th Street side of Harold Jones Park.

10/18/2024

The early history of dirt track racing in Wichita Falls

Part 2of2

As early as 1941, motorcycles raced on a track located on Jacksboro Highway. Races, sponsored by the Wichita Cycle Club, occurred on a “well-oiled” track to reduce the dust. A new race track located “one mile south of the Jacksboro City Y” advertised for forty stock cars and drivers to compete for big money prizes at the Wichita Speedway. Four thousand race fans attended events at the new track. The dirt track required “watering” to reduce the dust. Race fans often used their popcorn boxes to protect themselves from the clumps of mud thrown by the spinning tires of the stock cars.
One weekend of the month was given to women drivers for a powder puff derby. Popular driver, Yvonne Reck, wore a helmet that belonged to Lloyd Ruby. The races were 15 laps and lasted 10 to 15 minutes.
Ralph Parkinson dominated the track during the 60s. Other prominent racers included Joe Eastman, Eugene Hair, Hambone Herrell, and Buddy Lee Reasor. In 1967, the track was purchased by Lanny Edwards, who owned the Lawton stock car track. Races alternated between Wichita Falls on Friday night with Lawton races on Saturday.
Owners changed again in 1972 when Al Vergauwen, owner of Jace Auto Supply, purchased the track. Vergauwen promoted the track as family entertainment with events for children and teens.
This Saturday, a Texas Historical Marker honoring Lloyd Ruby will be dedicated at 3:00 pm at Harold Jones Park, 1400 9th Street.

09/30/2024

Congratulations to all the 2024 Texhoma Racers Hall of Fame inductees. Please continue to come out each year to support future inductees and enjoy the reunion with friends.

09/14/2024

Big shoutout to Brady Courtney for flying our logo this weekend. This is a tribute to some local racing legends that will be on the car at Elk City Motorsports Park tomorrow night.