Jack Bowsher honored with tribute

Jack Bowsher, the patriarch of Jack Bowsher & Associates Motorsports, was honored Tuesday evening, February 22, at the Dayton Auto Race Fan (DARF) monthly meeting.

The evening began with a history of Jack's life from the true beginning in 1930 to present day. Included were all the early days of racing in MARC, USAC, one NASCAR race and the more than 50 years in ARCA.

When questioned about racing on the sand of Daytona Beach Jack quipped, "I got the biggest education ever at Daytona." His first trip to the famed beach was an eye opener. But the next time he returned, he was ready for the competition! After winning three consecutive ARCA championships in 1963, 1964 and 1965, Jack attempted one NASCAR race. In Rockingham, he qualified second to David Pearson. He lead the first lap of the race only to be involved in a multi-car accident. In the 1970s, Jack's focus shifted from his racing to that of his sons. Sons Jim, Gary, Bobby and currently, Todd have run the number 21 cars. When asked what this tribute means to Todd he said, "Tonight is about my Dad and the legacy he has brought to ARCA racing and stock car racing, in general. Dad, you are my ultimate hero."

One of the many highlights for Jack was a surprise telephone call. Just after sharing numerous A.J. Foyt stories, the telephone at The Christopher Club rang. After waiting for the telephone to be connected to the microphone, Jack and all in attendance heard, "Why are you bad mouthin' me, Mr. Bowsher?" A.J. Foyt made a phone call from Texas to add meaning to his friend's tribute.

After enjoying his phone call another question posed to Jack was, "What can you say to the comments about you being a hero, a legend?" Jack's reply was, "I am just me. Why else would I continue to work every day?" This comment explains the kind of man Jack Bowsher is. To those of us who have known him for over 20 years, he is just that-he is Jack Bowsher. Oh yes, we are very aware of the great things he has done for racing. We have even witnessed some of those things, right there beside him. But, he is just the man who is sometimes gruff, sometimes short tempered, sometimes quick-witted, and even sometimes has a twinkle in his eye, but always is devoted to racing. Thanks, Jack, for all you have done for stock car racing.

-jbam-