For readers that did not follow (or not born yet) racing back in Duke's era, be careful about questioning his racing ability. I saw Duke race for many years. I was at the Hagerstown Dirt Car Race. Jack Hewitt won, Haud was 2nd, Duke was 3rd. That is true! I also recall Duke winning a USAC sprint car race at Orville (Wayne Co) Ohio. Also, he finished 2nd to Dick "Toby" Tobias at the Hulman Classic (Back when it was the biggest race around..60+cars etc.) Toby broke in turn #1 after taking the checkered flag! Duke almost won that race! Duke was always an "interesting" interview at the track...get the fans going, etc. Some fans called Duke Cook the "Clown Prince" of USAC, BUT, I'd be the first to say, that he totally represented what was painted on his race car..."When the Green flag drops, the bullsh*t stops!