1980 - Burgess Wins Old Style Invite at WIR

Steve Burgess

Kaukauna, Wis. (September 21, 1980) – Steve Burgess nosed out Alan Kulwicki by less than a car length to win the 40-lap late model feature, topping the two-day Old Style Invitational on Sunday afternoon at Wisconsin International Raceway.

A national record was established during the two days as 264 cars raced in the five-class program, snapping the existing national record of 258 cars. Some 7,032 fans turned out for the two days in spite of rainy, cool weather.

Ron Bennett came off his front row starting spot to lead the first 13 laps before being overtaken by Tony Strupp. Burgess began to advance to the front and overtook Strupp with an inside move on the 23rd round.

Kulwicki followed Burgess past Strupp on lap 25 and then he chased Burgess in a nose-to-tail battle right down to the checkered flag.

Strupp finished third followed by Ted Musgrave and Tom Jones.

In preliminary action, Dave Van Elzen of Kimberly won the 30-lap sportsman feature while Randy Butler of Iron Ridge won the 30-lap modified main event.


Results –


1. Steve Burgess, Eau Claire
2. Alan Kulwicki, Milwaukee
3. Tony Strupp, Slinger
4. Ted Musgrave, Grand Marsh
5. Tom Jones, Northbrook, Ill.
6. John Ziegler, Madison
7. Willie Goeden, Kewaskum
8. Jerry Eckhardt, Watertown
9. Wayne Roffers, Oneida
10.Steve Moll, Wisconsin Rapids
11.Grant Wilson, Bloomington, Minn.
12.Terry Baldry, Omro