The greatest performance I've ever seen on The Springfield Mile was achieved by Kenny Irwin Jr. in August of 1995, almost 20 years ago now. Kenny started dead last (28th) in The Tony Bettenhausen Memorial 100 and won! He only led 3 laps of that race but he led the ones that counted. This win came against guys like Johnny Parsons, Chuck Gurney, Jimmy Sills, Donnie Beechler, Jack Hewitt, Dave Darland, Tony Stewart, Richard Griffin and Russ Gamester in the field. This race was run back in the days when there would be 45+ cars show up!!
Just to add to Kenny's Springfield lore, he also won the 25 mile midget feature that was run prior to the Bettenhausen Memorial. There were some heavy hitters in this one, too. Tracy and Ted Hines, Ryan Newman, Kevin Doty, Johnny Parsons and Jack Hewitt among others were his competition in this one. I could be wrong, but I'm thinking Kenny was the only guy to sweep both the midgets and the Silver Crown race on the same day.
Rest in peace Kenny. You were very special.
Silver Crown Championship Dirt Cars properly driven on a one mile dirt track are classic poetry in motion. Using that analogy, Jack Hewitt is one of the greatest poets of all time.
I never had the honor of meeting Kenny jr but have sold two auctions for Kenny sr. and Reva. They are great people and truly care about their fellow Man. I saw Kenny sr. at Gas City during ISW and hes back in the pits with a midget. Guess that proves 'Once A Racer Always A Racer" By the way if you get a chance stop by Ray Skillmans Classic Car Museum In Greenwood Indiana. The Nascar Truck that Kenny jr. won Texas In As Well As His 1st Midget is there. Ray purchased them at the auction and wanted to help keep Kennys memory alive !!
