Merle Bettenhausen, an accomplished racer who returned to competition after a crash that cost him his right arm, died April 29. He was 82.
Videos by FanBuzz
Bettenhausen was born June 9, 1943, in Tinley Park, Illinois, and was part of one of auto racing's most prominent families. His father, Tony Bettenhausen, won national championships in 1951 and 1958 before being killed in a crash at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 1961. His brothers, Gary and Tony Jr., also competed at high levels of the sport, including multiple appearances in the Indianapolis 500.
Merle Bettenhausen built his own career in the United States Auto Club ranks, earning eight National Midget feature victories beginning in 1968. He added wins across several tracks over the next four seasons and established himself as a consistent competitor.
In July 1972, Bettenhausen was seriously injured during an Indy car race at Michigan International Speedway. The crash resulted in the loss of his right arm above the elbow and significant burns. He spent two months hospitalized before committing to a return to racing.
Less than a year later, Bettenhausen resumed competition using a prosthetic arm fitted with a hook to grip the steering wheel. He returned to victory in August 1973, winning a National Midget feature in Johnson City, Tennessee, in a close finish that became one of the defining moments of his career.
He continued racing into 1974 and was second in the National Midget standings entering July before announcing his retirement at age 31. He cited family considerations, including his wife and young daughter, as key factors in the decision.
Over his career, Bettenhausen made 203 National Midget starts, along with appearances in sprint cars, Indy cars and other series. He also earned recognition internationally, winning the World Midget Championship in New Zealand in 1970 and 1971, and received USAC's Jim Blunk Memorial Sportsmanship Award in 1974.
After retiring, Bettenhausen remained involved in racing through business and team roles, including work with his brother Tony Jr.'s Indy car team. He was also appointed to the Indiana Youth Council in 1974.
Bettenhausen is remembered for his perseverance and contributions to the sport.
