Jeff Hinkemeyer, a legendary figure in the world of dirt track racing and a former NASCAR Winston Racing Series regional champion, passed away peacefully on Sunday afternoon after a courageous battle with lung cancer. The 67-year-old racing icon from St. Cloud, Minnesota, was widely admired and celebrated for his remarkable career spanning more than three decades, leaving an indelible mark on the racing community.
Throughout his illustrious Dirt Late Model career, Jeff Hinkemeyer amassed an impressive array of accomplishments. He secured 21 track titles across nine different racing venues and recorded over 200 race victories. His competitive spirit and skill on the track earned him victories at some of the most prestigious events in the region, including two Silver 1000 triumphs at Proctor Speedway in Minnesota, a victory at Hibbing Raceway’s Labor Day Shootout, and the Thunderbird Open at Dodge County Speedway in Kasson, Minnesota.
Jeff’s racing journey truly took off in 1981, when at just 21 years old, he achieved a breakthrough season with an astounding 33 victories, including his first Silver 1000 win. His talent and determination continued to shine throughout the years, with some of his most memorable seasons coming in 1990. That year, he captured the NASCAR Great Northern Region title after winning 18 races in just 22 starts while driving the Joe Salner-owned No. 4F car. In addition to his regional success, Jeff also claimed eight track championships at various venues, including Viking Speedway in Alexandria, Minnesota, as well as Cedar Lake Speedway in New Richmond, Wisconsin, and other Minnesota tracks in Hibbing, Proctor, St. Cloud, and Fergus Falls.
Jeff’s final race victory came on July 2, 2010, at I-94 Speedway, marking the culmination of a career characterized by relentless passion and dedication. He retired after the 2011 season, following multiple spinal surgeries, but he always looked back on his racing years with pride and fondness. “I’ve met so many fabulous people,” Jeff shared in a 2020 interview with Tom Berg of the RaceChaser Blog. “I’ve got more memories than I can count. I had more fun than 10 guys should have.” His infectious enthusiasm and love for racing made him a beloved figure among fans, fellow racers, and track officials alike.
Jeff Hinkemeyer’s contributions to racing were recognized with Hall of Fame honors from several prominent tracks, including Viking Speedway, Hibbing Raceway, Proctor Speedway, and Gondik Law Speedway in Superior, Wisconsin. His legacy is preserved not only through his numerous victories and titles but also through the countless lives he touched within the racing community.
His passing marks the end of an era for Minnesota dirt track racing, but his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Jeff’s passion, talent, and kindness left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire drivers and fans alike.
The racing community extends its deepest condolences to Jeff Hinkemeyer’s family and friends during this difficult time. His remarkable career, characterized by resilience and joy, will be celebrated and remembered for generations to come.
About the Author
