Bill Cheesbourg: A Journey Through Speed and Time
Bill Cheesbourg, born on June 12, 1927, in Tucson, Arizona, carved a unique path in the world of motorsports. His career, spanning several decades, was marked by both remarkable achievements and challenging setbacks. Cheesbourg’s journey into racing began post-World War II, initially with jalopies in Tucson, before he transitioned into midgets racing across Arizona. His talent and determination soon led him to the prestigious USAC Championship Car series, where he competed from 1956 to 1966.
Career Highlights and Challenges
Cheesbourg’s career was highlighted by his participation in six Indianapolis 500 races, a testament to his skill and persistence. Notably, he made a record three successful re-entries into the Indy 500 field after initially being bumped out. This resilience was a hallmark of his racing style. In stock car racing, he achieved top ten finishes eight times, with his best performances being seventh place in Daytona (1959) and Fuji (1966). However, his journey was not without its lows. Despite his efforts and skills, Cheesbourg did not secure any championship titles or podium finishes in Formula One, reflecting the competitive and challenging nature of top-tier motorsport.
Legacy and Impact
After retiring from Indy Car racing, Cheesbourg returned to local dirt short track racing, where he continued to make his mark. He was not just a racer but a mentor and helper to many in the racing community. His contributions extended beyond the track, as he helped construct and drive a high school team’s entry in an electric car race. Cheesbourg’s legacy is defined by his versatility, from traditional stock car racing to local figure-eight racing, and his enduring impact on the motorsport community. He passed away on November 6, 1995, but his spirit and passion for racing continue to inspire.
Career Stats
| Year | Team | Car | Start Position | Qualifying Speed | Rank | Finish | Laps | Led | Reason for Retirement |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1957 | – | 31 | 23 | 141.565 | 13 | 26 | 81 | 0 | Fuel leak |
| 1958 | – | 54 | 33 | 142.546 | 30 | 10 | 200 | 0 | Running |
| 1959 | – | 53 | 30 | 141.788 | 30 | 21 | 147 | 0 | Magneto |
| 1961 | – | 14 | 9 | 145.873 | 11 | 28 | 50 | 0 | Crash FS |
| 1964 | – | 62 | 33 | 148.711 | 33 | 16 | 131 | 0 | Engine |
| 1965 | – | 47 | 33 | 153.774 | 33 | 32 | 14 | 0 | Magneto |