8/19/2025
LaSalle Speedway
The Bill Waite Jr. Memorial Returns to LaSalle Speedway
After an eight-year hiatus, one of the most meaningful nights in Midwest open-wheel racing returns to LaSalle Speedway & Event Center on Saturday, August 23rd, with the revival of the Bill Waite Jr. Memorial. The event honors the life and legacy of Bill Waite Jr., a beloved Illinois Valley native, businessman, and racer whose impact on the regional motorsports community continues to be deeply felt.
Bill Waite Jr.’s passion for racing began early. As a child, he cut his teeth in Karts before climbing the ranks into Stock Cars during the 1980s. By the 1990s, Waite was a well-known figure in the Sprint Car world, competing across the Midwest with notable series such as the Interstate Racing Association (IRA), Great Lakes Outlaw Sprint Series (GLOSS), and the Midwest All Stars (MASS).
Off the track, Bill was a dedicated family man and businessman, managing the family-owned towing and auto repair shop in Cherry, Illinois. Tragically, in 2008, Bill was killed in the line of duty on I-80 while assisting a stranded motorist—a selfless act that reflected the very heart of who he was.
The return of the Bill Waite Jr. Memorial brings with it a thrilling night of Sprint Car action. Fans can expect edge-of-the-seat excitement from the Bumper to Bumper IRA Sprints, Midwest Open Wheel Association (MOWA), and the Wisconsin WingLESS Sprint Series.
“This event means a great deal to our racing family and to the community,” said Tony Izzo Jr. from LaSalle Speedway. “We’re honored to once again celebrate Bill’s legacy in the place where his racing journey began.”
Tickets are available now at lasallespeedway.com
or can be purchased at the track on race day. Pits open at Noon, with Grandstands opening at 4:00pm. Hot Laps will kick off the action at 6:30pm with racing to follow.
Article Credit: Kevin Zambory
Submitted By: Kevin Zambory