Friday, June 19, 2020

1965 – Riegel Rides Rugged Reading Race

Red Riegel


Reading, Penn. (June 19, 1965) – The hometown favorite, Red Riegel, showed the United States Auto Club cars and stars the short way around the Berks County oval, winning the 30-lap feature.

Starting in 11th position, Riegel gradually moved up within striking distance of the leaders and then went on to beat Roger McCluskey for the top spot and money.

Third spot went to youngster Greg Weld who had been running first for most of the race but just couldn’t keep his position.

Johnny Rutherford, who really put on a terrific show behind the wheel of Steve Stapp’s sprinter, finished fourth.

Joltin’ Judd Larson was fifth and last year’s sprint king, Don Branson, grabbed sixth place.

The heat races were nothing but top notch competition as Johnny Rutherford, who set fast time in qualifying, also won the first heat. The second heat was won by Roger McCluskey while the third heat was taken by Riegel.

Weld won the 12-lap consolation.

Results –

1. Red Riegel
2. Roger McCluskey
3. Greg Weld
4. Johnny Rutherford
5. Jud Larson
6. Don Branson
7. Jerry Daniels
8. Bobby Unser
9. Bob Harkey
10.Bruce Jacobi

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