John McCarthy

Car Owner
CLASS OF 2007

McCarthy helped to establish the image the Northeastern Midget Association and is considered by many to be the man who saved midget racing. He was part of the stock block revolution of the 1960’s. As a car owner, he had drivers like Al Pillon and Len Thrall pilot his #47 cars.

As a car owner, he won back-to-back NEMA Championships with two different drivers: Lou Fray in 1970 and Dave Humphrey in 1971, then won his 3rd series title (with Humphrey again) in 1973.

As NEMA President in the 1960s and 70s, he brought about a partnership with other forms of a racing that enabled the Midgets to survive. He also opened up the sport with his role in the introduction of the Badger.

He was NEMA president for 12 seasons, working diligently with promoters & midget teams to rejuvenate the club and expand their schedule. John McCarthy passed away in December of 2014.