Knoxville Raceway will welcome six new members into its Hall of Fame during induction ceremonies scheduled for Saturday, June 27. The annual event recognizes individuals whose dedication and accomplishments have left a lasting mark on the famed Marion County racing facility.
This year’s inductees are Chris Dunkin of Knoxville, Iowa; Clint Garner of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Josh Higday of Des Moines, Iowa; Jeff Rasmussen of Des Moines, Iowa; Jerry Smith of Rocheport, Missouri; and Rick VanDonsler of Knoxville, Iowa.
The Knoxville Raceway Hall of Fame was established in 1979 and has grown to include 242 inductees. The 2026 class marks the 48th group of individuals honored for their contributions to the raceway and the sport of sprint car racing.
Among those being recognized is Chris Dunkin, who has spent more than four decades helping prepare and maintain Knoxville Raceway’s racing surface. His work has earned respect throughout the dirt track racing community and helped provide safe and competitive racing conditions for drivers.
Drivers Clint Garner and Josh Higday are being honored for successful racing careers at Knoxville. Garner collected multiple track championships and feature victories in the 360 division, while Higday became one of the track’s most successful 360 competitors with numerous feature wins and a track championship.
Jeff Rasmussen is being recognized for his role as co-owner of the highly successful Serace, Inc. racing team. The team captured multiple Knoxville Raceway championships and feature victories with several accomplished drivers over the years.
Jerry Smith is being honored for more than five decades as a sprint car owner. His teams have competed throughout the Midwest and featured many of the sport’s top drivers, helping build a lasting family legacy in racing.
Rounding out the class is Rick VanDonsler, whose 46 years of service to the Marion County Fairgrounds included extensive electrical work that helped modernize Knoxville Raceway. His efforts included helping bring the first Musco lighting system to the track, beginning a partnership that continues today.
The induction banquet will be held at noon in Dyer-Hudson Hall and is open to the public. Luncheon tickets are $10 and may be purchased in advance or at the door.
Source: Knoxville Raceway Press Release.
