Five individuals and a husband-and-wife team comprise the Class of 2017 for the Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame, which will be inducted on March 18.
Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame (EARHoF) President Rick Leighty annouced earlier this week the names of Al Lytle, Dick Aduddell, Arie Callaghan, Brian Sutherby, Dick Wilskey and Corinne and Bruce Williams in a statement congratulating the newest inductees into the Elma Auto Racing Hall of Fame.
“Another fantastic group,” stated Leighty. “They cover the full spectrum; drivers, owners, officials, innovators and outstanding sportsmanship. Our organization is pleased to be honoring these racers and their accomplishments. Congratulations to all the honorees and welcome to the EARHoF family.”
Lytle, who hails from Aberdeen, began his career in the jalopies breaking the track record before moving on to the semi modifieds and stock cars. He also owned cars for drivers such as Earl Fritts and Dale Underwood. Currently, Lytle owns two Malloy super modifieds that he has rebuilt to show car appearance and occasionally races with his driver Tony Thomas. Lytle is also a member of the Push Rods of Hoquiam.
Port Orchard’s Dick Aduddell raced one of the most recognizable sounding engines to circle the Grays Harbor Fairgrounds half-mile. A Buick straight eight propelled Aduddell to be one of the elite drivers of 1960s and fan favorite status. He was also known for his ingenuity and craftsmanship. He built rearends and other components for himself and other racers. Aduddell was not afraid to travel and raced on most of the Northwest speedways operating in the 1960s and 1970s
Joining his father in the EARHoF is Brian Sutherby of Elma. A three time champion, Sutherby won the 1987 hobby stock and the 1990 and 1991 sprint car titles. Sutherby was a three time kart champion before turning to the full size racers. All of this was accomplished despite having to overcome a childhood accident that left him with a left leg that doesn’t have full mobility. Since retiring from driving, Sutherby can often be found spectating at the races.
Honored posthumously will be Aberdeen’s Arie Callaghan. His career only lasted from 1965 to 1970, because of an illness that took Callaghan’s life at an early age. However, he is remember for his laugh, smile and brightly colored cars. Willing to help others on their cars, Callaghan was well liked by racers and fans. The Callaghan family has a long involvement with the Push Rods of Hoquiam, a connection they maintain today.
Dick Wilskey called Seattle home and raced all over, both as a driver and an owner. Known for his immaculately prepared cars, Wilskey once won “Best in Show” in an early 1970s Seattle Car Show. Highly respected by fellow competitors and track officials, Wilskey was often asked his opinion on issues and oversaw GHR track operations after the untimely death of Fred Brownfield. Wilskey, along with his daughter Shawna, promoted the touring NSCS sprint car series in 2007 and remains a strong supporter of Northwest racing to this day.
The husband-and-wife team of Bruce and Corinne Williams of Shelton were car owners and EARA officers known for their willingness to unselfishly go out of their way to help others. Unknown to most EARA racers in the mid 1980s, is the fact that the club was struggling to survive and, if not for the Williams’ effort and support, most likely would not have been able to continue racing. Bruce Williams will be honored posthumously. Corinne Williams can often be found at Northwest drag strips. Their son Tom is a 2013 EARHoF Inductee.
The 2017 EARHoF Induction Ceremony and Silent Auction will be held Saturday, March 18, at the Stay Beyond Inn & Suites in Elma. Activities get underway at 6 p.m. with a Social Hour and Silent Auction, while the honoring ceremony begins at 7 p.m. Admission is $5 which includes auction number, hors d’ oeuvres and cake. Memorabilia will be on display.
