06/01/2026
GHOST RODS KAUKAUNA – Who are they and why are they important to Wisconsin International Raceway’s Drag Strip
The Ghost Rods Car Club was formed in March of 1958 by “car guys” in Kaukauna, Wisconsin. In August, of 1960 the twelve original members applied for and were recognized as an affiliate chapter of the National Hot Rod Association Charter Club program.
The Ghost Rods were also part of the now defunct Wisconsin Timing Association. Old records showed that at least 19 clubs belonged to the WTA. Members organized inter-club events and had a long-term goal of building a drag strip in the northern half of Wisconsin. Union Grove Dragway near the Illinois border was the closest track at that time.
Ghost Rod members worked with local businessmen Joe Van Daalwyk and Connie DeLeeuw to help with the construction of what is now the Wisconsin International Raceway, then known as KK Sports Arena. The drag strip opened in 1966 when drag racing was a grassroots hobby using everyday street cars. Racers largely competed in modified coupes, sedans, and roadsters often called “gassers” or “hot rods”. Speeds hovered around 100 – 140 mph, with the quarter-mile distance taking roughly 9 – 11 seconds for the fastest modified cars. Today, quarter-mile is largely obsolete for premier classes due to safety. Drag racing was a localized, blue-collar “do-it-yourself” subculture designed to keep youths from street racing. This is what the Strip at WIR was built for 60 years ago and the focus today.
Ghost Rod Members worked in various capacities at the drag strip for many years. Charter Member Dave Lindemuth was the track announcer for 49 years. Sadly, Dave passed in 2018. Today less than 20 members of the club remain active.
We hope to see you at the Vintage Drags Race this Saturday, June 6, 2026 celebrating grassroots drag racing and the Ghost Rods in Kaukauna, Wisconsin.
