The world of midget racing has suffered a tremendous blow at the passing of Bryan Gapinski on October 25 at the age of 56. It can be reasonably argued that no contemporary individual held a greater passion for this racing discipline, nor served the sport in so many varied capacities. Bryan leaves his wife Jenna, and two children, 10-year-old daughter Kailey and 7-year-old son Tyler. As much as he loved racing, as anyone who knew him can attest, it was surpassed by his love of family.
In a remarkable career, he served as an announcer, writer, publicist, and car owner. He was one of the nation’s top midget racing historians and was called upon regularly to share his expertise in a variety of mediums. He was a car owner from 1990 to 1996, an editor and reporter for the now-defunct Midwest Racing News, as well as a feature writer and columnist for National Speed Sport News. His work in a public relations capacity extended over a quarter-century. Gapinski also worked for National Hailbrand, in addition, he also served as a salesman for 1st Ayd Corporation.
One of Bryan’s crowning achievements was the creation of the National Midget Driver of the Year awards, and many looked forward to his presentation at the Chili Bowl Nationals at Tulsa, Oklahoma. Few activities underscored his commitment and devotion to midget racing more than the NMDOTY competition. His intent was clear. The goal was to highlight the accomplishments of those involved in midget racing, and it was an activity that he gave his full attention to, tirelessly and selflessly.
His first passion was and remained forever Wisconsin midget racing. He was an important contributor during the days of the Dairyland Midget Association and was deeply associated with the Badger Midget Auto Racing Association. His promotion of the BMARA, both formally and informally, was unparalleled, and he cherished his interactions and memories of racers, officials, and fans past and present. He will be greatly missed, and the range of testimonials that have followed this loss speaks to his status as a giant in the sport.
A Go Fund Me page has been established to help his wife and young family. www.gofundme.com/f/bryan-gapinski
Services will be held on Thursday, November 5th at the Church and Chapel Funeral Homes, 380 Bluemound Rd., Waukesha, WI, 5318. Visitation will be held from 4-7 pm, with services to follow.
- administrator on Oct 27, 2020
- Article Date: 10/26/2020 by Pat Sullivan