John Benson Sr. began his racing career in 1956 and retired at the end of the season in 1980. His racing contributions have been a significant factor in the growth and success of racing in the West Michigan area. In a span of thirty years, John Sr. began his racing career at the Speedrome in Comstock Parkand retired while competing at Berlin Raceway. Although there were several offers for him to move on to the big leagues through the years, he made the decision to stay in West Michigan.
John Sr., traveled throughout the Midwest competing at the following tracks: Grand Rapids Speedrome; Comstock Park, Berlin Raceway, MI; Oswego, New York; Sandusky, Ohio; Lorain Country, Ohio; Illiana, IN; Baer Field, IN, Queen City, OH, Auburn, MI; Jackson, MI; Kalamazoo, MI; New Bremen, IN; Hartford, MI; Heidelberg, PA; Sharon, OH; Winchester, IN; Salem, IN; Owosso, MI.
Career Highlights:
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Won the 1966 Oswego Classic
- Won seven track championships at Berlin Raceway – 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1976, 1977 and 1978
- Competed at Michigan International Speedway in one Winston Cup Race in 1973 at the age of 36. Started 36th – Finished 21st.
- Won over 191 main events and over 243 heat races
- Created Benson Speed Equipment – developing parts for the racing community
- Owned race team for Johnny Benson during his dirt, asphalt and ASA years from
1981 – 1993 - Inducted into the Michigan Motorsports Hall of Fame
- Continued involvement in racing at Berlin – owns race team
- Continued involvement in Johnny Benson’s career – is the support spotter on race day in Winston Cup Racing
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Inducted into the Grand Rapids Sports Hall of Fame in 2001
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Inducted into the Berlin Raceway Hall of Fame
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