Howdy Wilcox
Howard Samuel Wilcox (June 24, 1889 - September 4, 1923) was an American racecar driver active in formative years of auto racing.
Biography
He was born in Crawfordsville, Indiana on June 24, 1889.
Wilcox led the last 98 laps of the 1919 Indianapolis 500 after starting in the 2nd position.
He died on September 4, 1923 at Altoona Speedway board track in Tyrone, Pennsylvania in a car crash. He was buried at Crown Hill Cemetery in Indianapolis. Wilcox's wife had died the year before. Wilcox's son, Howard Jr., would found the Little 500 bicycle race, which has been held at Indiana University annually since 1951.
Indy 500 results
References
External links
Howdy Wilcox II
Howard Omar Wilcox (February 20, 1905 – October 13, 1946) was an American racecar driver active during the 1930s. He was of no relation to fellow Indy driver and 1919 Indianapolis 500 winner Howdy Wilcox. He assumed the name "Howdy Wilcox II" to differentiate himself from the former.
Biography
He was born on February 20, 1905 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
After finishing second at the 1932 Indianapolis 500 in his rookie year, he was disqualified before the start of the race after qualifying in 1933 Indianapolis 500 because race officials learned of medical problems Wilcox was having due to diabetes. Other drivers in the race attempted to get Wilcox reinstated, but his car ended up being driven by future three-time winner Mauri Rose. Following the race Wilcox sued the speedway for slander, claiming reports had labeled him epileptic rather than diabetic. The $50,000 suit was settled for $3000.
He died on October 13, 1946 in Converse, Indiana. He had stepped onto the track to wave the checkered flag for Jimmy Wilburn and was hit by the car of Kenneth Wines who was following close behind.
