Bill Bader Sportsman of the Year

Imagine what it takes for Bill Bader to become speechless.

Saturday night, during Norwalk Raceway Park’s annual awards banquet honoring track champions and other success stories from the year, the prestigious honor of Sportsman of the Year was renamed for Bill Bader, Sr.

Bill Bader, Jr., current President of Norwalk Raceway Park announced the honor by unveiling a bronze bust in the image of his father.  Bader, Sr. placed his hand over his eyes as he walked towards the award and said nothing.

The Sportsman of the Year award is recognized as Norwalk’s Hall of Fame. It is presented to an individual who displays the same dignity in victory as in defeat.  The Sportsman of the Year is an individual who is respected for the person they are; not necessarily the racer they strive to be.

The award visibly moved Bill Bader, Sr., who retired as President of the International Hot Rod Association in November 2004.   Last July, John Force honored Bader in a ceremony at Night Under Fire by unveiling a new Nitro Funny Car paint scheme featuring the likeness of Bader with the inscription, “Drag Racing Legend.” 

With his father at his side, Bill Jr. read the inscription on the bronze bust, “A man’s greatness is not measured by his number of victories, but by his number of friends. For in life; true greatness is reserved for those who have forged an uncharted path; touched the hearts of men, always optimistic where the journey concludes while remembering where the journey began.”