The roar of the crowd confirmed that Jim Nabors’ signature rendition of “Back Home Again in Indiana” had ended with a flourish.
In the remaining moments that were left to steel his nerves, 37-year-old rookie Donnie Beechler tugged one more time at his belts and adjusted his gloves. It was a different time. Two cars to his left sat rugged Jack Hewitt, while old midget sparring partner Billy Boat would lead the field of 33 in A. J. Foyt’s car.
It was a surreal moment and almost too unfathomable to believe.
More than a quarter-century later, it remains a pinch-me moment.
Donnie Beechler was born in Springfield, Ill., on May 18, 1961, and graduated from nearby Riverton High School. His father, Lenny, was a contractor who among many things specialized in building swimming pools. Beechler labored with his father for a year after his graduation and then spent six years as a jet mechanic with the Active Guard Reserve, 183rd Tactical Fighter Group.
Like many of his friends and family, Beechler often spent Sunday night at Springfield Speedway, but his first taste of speed came in a decidedly unconventional manner.
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