Kenny Conversations: Dirt Racing Hall of Famer & Track Owner Kevin Gundaker

Podcast: Herm & Schrader
Hosts: Herm Wallace & Ken Schrader
Episode: Kenny Conversations: Dirt Racing Hall of Famer & Track Owner Kevin Gundaker
Release Date: December 19, 2024

Introduction

In this heartfelt episode of Herm & Schrader, hosted by Herm Wallace and Ken Schrader, the duo sits down with Kevin Gundaker, a legendary figure in dirt racing and the proud owner of Tri City Speedway in Granite City, Illinois. The conversation delves deep into Kevin's illustrious racing career, his family's real estate legacy in St. Louis, personal trials, and the revival of a beloved local racetrack. This comprehensive summary captures the essence of their engaging dialogue, highlighting key moments, insightful anecdotes, and inspirational takeaways.

Gundaker Family Legacy and Real Estate Empire

[01:02] Herm:
Herm opens the conversation by acknowledging the long-standing relationship between the Wallace and Gundaker families. He emphasizes the Gundaker family's prominence in the St. Louis area through their real estate business, "Gundaker Realtors," which served as a community staple with billboards adorning local highways.

[03:36] Kevin Gundaker:
Kevin shares the origins of the family business, founded by his father and mother in 1968 after leaving John H. Armbruster. The company rapidly expanded, capturing 62% of the St. Louis market with over 30 offices and 3,600 employees by the time his mother passed away in 2001. Subsequently, his father sold the residential division to Coldwell Banker but retained ownership of "Gundaker Commercial," exemplifying relentless entrepreneurial spirit even at 90 years old.

Notable Quote:
Kevin Gundaker [04:03]:
"He's like the Energizer Bunny, that man. He doesn't know how to stop."

Early Beginnings in Racing

[08:16] Kevin Gundaker:
Kevin reminisces about his childhood passion for racing, ignited at the age of five or six when he started racing go-karts with the support of his grandfather, a former midget racer at the old Wall Stadium in St. Louis.

[09:21] Herm:
Herm highlights Kevin’s upbringing around a garage, shaping him into a "grease monkey" and gearhead, a foundation that would later translate into his hands-on approach in building race cars.

Notable Quote:
Kevin Gundaker [10:21]:
"And that's how we first started racing."

Racing Career and Achievements

[11:56] Kevin Gundaker:
Kevin recounts his transition from a fan to a formidable competitor, influenced by friendships forged at tracks like Granite City and connections with racing legends such as Sandy Anderson and Mel Campbell.

[16:23] Kevin Gundaker:
He expresses a deep fascination with champ cars and silver crown cars, describing the "magic mile" ambiance of tracks like Bossertown Speedway and the unparalleled thrill of winning there.

[30:11] Kevin Gundaker:
Discussing his memorable victories, Kevin mentions winning significant races at East Bay, particularly in 1982, which solidified his status in the dirt racing community and earned him a place in the National Dirt Late Model Hall of Fame in 2011.

Notable Quote:
Kevin Gundaker [33:00]:
"If you've got a JW Hunt strawberry decal, you did something. Because he did it on friendship as well."

The Turning Point: Motorcycle Accident and Recovery

[21:20] Kevin Gundaker:
Kevin shares a life-altering experience from 2002 when a motorcycle accident nearly cost him his life. The accident resulted in severe injuries, including a broken ankle, ribs, and a hole in his liver, necessitating a 30-day hospital stay.

[27:43] Herm:
Herm draws parallels between Kevin's experience and those of other racers who have faced critical moments, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing personal health struggles.

Notable Quote:
Kevin Gundaker [22:45]:
"It was a very eye-opening experience about family and about the things that."

Revival of Tri City Speedway

[46:44] Kevin Gundaker:
Discussing the acquisition of Tri City Speedway in 2005, Kevin reveals it was never just a business move but a heartfelt decision to preserve a racing home that held significant personal value.

[48:54] Kevin Gundaker:
He describes the moment of acquiring the track after a conversation with Bobby Winnie, culminating in the Gundaker family taking ownership and transforming Tri City Speedway into a premier racing facility.

[50:27] Herm:
Herm praises the Gundaker family's contribution to local racing, noting that Tri City Speedway and Ken Schrader's I55 have been pivotal in sustaining St. Louis auto racing traditions.

Notable Quote:
Kevin Gundaker [71:25]:
"It's a way of life, isn't it?"

Future Plans and Inspiration

[55:27] Kevin Gundaker:
Having recovered from hip surgery in June, Kevin expresses renewed enthusiasm to return to racing. His swift recovery allowed him to be back at the race shop within hours of surgery, showcasing his unwavering dedication.

[62:12] Herm:
Herm shares his admiration for Kevin's resilience and announces plans for future races, encouraging listeners to support the revitalized Tri City Speedway.

[70:17] Herm:
As the conversation wraps up, Herm underscores the significance of the Gundaker family's role in preserving and nurturing local dirt racing, attributing much of the community's racing success to their efforts.

Notable Quote:
Herm [66:05]:
"When we want to race, race."

Conclusion

The episode concludes on a high note, celebrating Kevin Gundaker's enduring legacy in dirt racing and his pivotal role in sustaining Tri City Speedway. Herm and Ken express profound gratitude for Kevin's contributions, highlighting his passion and commitment as the driving forces behind the resurgence of a cherished local racing haven. The conversation serves not only as a tribute to Kevin's achievements but also as an inspiration for racing enthusiasts to persevere through challenges and remain passionate about the sport.

Final Quote:
Kevin Gundaker [71:56]:
"It's been a hell of a run together."

Key Takeaways

• Family Legacy: The Gundaker family's real estate success in St. Louis laid the foundation for their influential role in the local racing scene.

• Passion for Racing: Kevin's lifelong dedication to dirt racing, from his childhood beginnings to his Hall of Fame accolades, underscores the importance of passion in achieving excellence.

• Resilience: Overcoming a near-fatal motorcycle accident, Kevin's story is a testament to resilience and the power of family support.

• Community Impact: Through the revival of Tri City Speedway, the Gundaker family has significantly contributed to sustaining and nurturing the local dirt racing community.

• Inspiration: Kevin Gundaker's journey inspires others in the racing community to pursue their passions, persevere through adversity, and value the camaraderie that comes with the sport.

Notable Quotes Summary:

1. Kevin Gundaker [04:03]:
   "He's like the Energizer Bunny, that man. He doesn't know how to stop."

2. Kevin Gundaker [10:21]:
   "And that's how we first started racing."

3. Kevin Gundaker [16:23]:
   "If you've got a JW Hunt strawberry decal, you did something. Because he did it on friendship as well."

4. Kevin Gundaker [22:45]:
   "It was a very eye-opening experience about family and about the things that."

5. Kevin Gundaker [33:00]:
   "If you've got a JW Hunt strawberry decal, you did something. Because he did it on friendship as well."

6. Kevin Gundaker [71:25]:
   "It's a way of life, isn't it?"

7. Kevin Gundaker [71:56]:
   "It's been a hell of a run together."

8. Herm [66:05]:
   "When we want to race, race."

This episode of Herm & Schrader not only celebrates Kevin Gundaker's remarkable contributions to dirt racing but also highlights the enduring bonds of family and community that drive the sport forward. Through candid conversations and shared memories, listeners gain a profound appreciation for the dedication and passion that fuel legends like Kevin Gundaker.