Ernie Derr won both ends of twin 50-milers for IMCA stock cars at the Tri-State Fairgrounds in Burlington. - Ernie Derr Collection
Burlington, Iowa (June 21, 1958) – Ernie Derr of Keokuk dominated the Hawkeye Fair Speedway’s 100-mile late model stock car races on Saturday night.
Derr thrilled a crowd of 5,000 spectators by driving to a new half-mile time trial record and to victory in the two 50-mile events.
Derr, who trails IMCA point leader Don White of Keokuk by only a few points, streaked around the fast track in 31.10 seconds to erase the 31.16 seconds set last year by Bob Burdick.
White posted the second fastest time in qualifying – 31.34 seconds. He and Derr shared the front row as fans anticipated a red hot duel between the two daredevils.
However, the fireworks failed to develop. White developed motor trouble on the very first lap and was forced to watch the remainder of the race from the sidelines. Track officials said that White withdrew after a broken valve spring had cut the power of his 1958 Ford.
Derr had it easy sailing until the final laps when he was pressed by Johnny Beauchamp. Derr took the checkered flag some five or six car lengths ahead of Beauchamp after touring the event in 24 minutes and 1.84 seconds.
Sonny Gross of Quincy, Ill., was third followed by Bob Burdick of Omaha, Neb.
Heat winners were Derr, Ramo Stott of Keokuk, Bob Potter of Duluth, Minn., and Dick Santee of Gardenia, Calif.
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