Indy 500 Veteran Hucul Dies - Obituary & Tributes

Cliff Hucul, a Canadian driver who competed in the Indianapolis 500 three consecutive years in the late 1970s, died February 17th on his farm in Prince George, British Columbia. He was 79 years old.

From Local Tracks to the Indy 500

Hucul participated in “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” from 1977 to 1979. He began his racing career in the Prince George area, competing in stock cars and modified sprint cars before moving to modifieds and supermodifieds in the Pacific Northwest. He raced alongside drivers who would later achieve success at Indianapolis, including Tom and Jerry Sneva.

A Rookie’s Challenge

Hucul’s best finish at the Indianapolis 500 came in 1977, his debut year, where he finished 22nd. He drove the No. 29 Team Canada McLaren/Offenhauser, a car he purchased after Johnny Rutherford won the 1976 race with it. Despite qualifying on Bump Day, his race was cut short by gearbox problems after completing 72 laps. His team faced challenges, including two engine failures during the month of May.

Did You Know? Hucul purchased the car he drove in the 1977 Indianapolis 500 after it had already secured a victory at the same race the previous year.

Later Career and Resilience

Hucul made a total of 24 USAC and CART starts between 1977 and 1981, achieving eight top-10 finishes. His best overall standings came in 1979, when he placed 11th, highlighted by a fifth-place finish at Ontario Motor Speedway and a career-best fourth at Texas World Speedway. His final Indianapolis 500 start was in 1979, where he qualified 18th.

In 1996, Hucul faced a life-altering event, becoming a paraplegic after an automobile accident on a highway in British Columbia. Despite this challenge, he remained active, managing his farm and mentoring aspiring drivers in his community. He was recognised for his contributions to auto racing with an induction into the Prince George Sports Hall of Fame.

Expert Insight: Hucul’s continued involvement in racing after his accident demonstrates a deep and enduring passion for the sport, highlighting the powerful role of community and mentorship in overcoming adversity.

Family and Legacy

Cliff Hucul is survived by his son, Kelly, and daughter-in-law, Sylvie; his daughter, Michele; and numerous grandchildren.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Cliff Hucul’s best finish in the Indianapolis 500?

His best finish was 22nd place in the 1977 Indianapolis 500.

Where did Cliff Hucul begin his racing career?

He began racing stock cars and modified sprint cars at local tracks in northern British Columbia.

What did Cliff Hucul do after his racing career?

After becoming a paraplegic in 1996, he managed his farm and mentored many drivers in the area.

What does it mean to continue pursuing a passion, even in the face of significant personal challenges?

Indy 500 Veteran Hucul Dies – Obituary & Tributes