Ep. 22: Lee Bardo - Byron Dragway's Grand Opening, Indoor Drag Races & More

Byron Dragway

In this episode, we get to know Lee Bardo. Lee holds the distinction of having been a racer at Byron Dragway for longer than anyone else. Lee raced at Byron Dragway’s grand opening on July 4, 1964. He and his trademark ’57 Chevy - which was also at opening day - are an inseparable pair, having most recently raced at the Glory Days Vintage Drag Race at Byron Dragway in 2019 and they are already on the entry list for the 2020 edition of Glory Days. Lee has many stories about what drag racing was like while the sport was still in its infancy. He also recalls racing at a variety of other race tracks from the past including the infamous indoor drag races at the Chicago Amphitheatre.

This episode is sponsored by The Hot Rod Shop. The best place to get the best parts for drag cars, street machines, and muscle cars is The Hot Rod Shop in Rockford. From nitrous kits and refills to tire mounting and balancing. They sell all major brands of speed equipment with fast delivery from several regional warehouses. The Hot Rod Shop is located only 20 minutes away from Byron Dragway at 4425 Charles Street in Rockford, Illinois. Look them up on Facebook or call 815-227-5424.

More helpful links mentioned in the episode:

RacePerformanceExpo.com for details on the upcoming trade show we will be at February 22-23 in Schaumburg.

ByronDragway.com/banquet for details and to RSVP for the Awards Banquet on Saturday, March 7.

ByronDragway.com/advertising for advertising opportunities at Byron Dragway and the Byron Dragway Podcast, Byron Dragway TV Live Streams, and more.