#10 - Donnie Beechler (Springfield, IL)

11th Chili Bowl Appearance

Chili Bowl Main Event Starts: 8

Best Chili Bowl Finish: 1st (1995)

Donnie Beechler is one of seven former Chili Bowl champions expected to be on hand for the 18th edition of the event in January 2004 to vie for another shot of Chili Bowl glory.

After topping the 1995 Chili Bowl, Beechler ultimately moved on to the Indy Racing League, finishing sixth in IRL points in 2000.  Beechler also posted a 12th-place finish in the 2000 "Indianapolis 500".

Beechler returned to the dirt track wars in 2003, running several USAC Silver Crown events, including a strong runner-up showing at DuQuoin on September 6.

After a year's absence, Beechler returns to the Chili Bowl seeking to build upon his strong Chili Bowl background that includes a pair of fourth-place finishes and a tenth-place run to go along with his win.  This year, Beechler joins forces with car owner Donnie Moore. 

Owner:  Donald Moore

Chassis:  Stealth

Engine:  Sesco Mopar

Sponsors:  Don Moore Music Publications, Pro Lube Center

Photo:  Donnie Beechler powers his USAC Weld Racing Silver Crown car into turn one during the inaugural O'Reilly Tulsa 100.  (Photo courtesy of The Wheatley Collection)