Seven time ASA champion Mike Eddy dies at 72

Short track racing legend Mike Eddy, who dominated during his tenure, passed away at the age of 72 on Thursday morning, May 29, his family announced on social media.

Eddy was a true icon in the American Speed Association (ASA) National Tour, where he set a record with seven championship titles. His incredible career also included 58 wins in the series, second only to Bob Senneker, solidifying his place as one of the greatest ASA champions of all time.

“This morning my dad took his final checkered flag,” shared Mike’s son, Travis, on Facebook. “You’ll always be my best friend, thank you for teaching me everything I know about life. You’re no longer suffering and I promise I’ll see you again, dad.”

The Michigan native captured victories in some of short track racing’s most prestigious events throughout his remarkable career. Eddy claimed the Winchester 400 title in both 1981 and 1983, joining an elite group of only nine drivers with multiple wins in the historic race. He led an astounding 1,859 laps at that event alone.

His list of major wins also includes the 1981 Florida Governor’s Cup, the 1985 World Crown 300, and the 1992 Redbud 400.

Eddy also secured the Super Late Model championship at the 1977 World Series of Asphalt Stock Car Racing at New Smyrna Speedway, notching four wins in just eight races that year. During the era when the Slinger Nationals featured a three-race mini-series each season, Eddy triumphed in two Nationals features and finished fourth in the points standings in both 1983 and 1984.

He also sustained incredible longevity winning races from the early 70s until 2004.