Legendary North Georgia racer dies at 87
Leon Brindle, one of the winningest drivers at his hometown North Georgia Speedway over a racing career stretching more than 40 years, died July 5 surrounded by family at his Chatsworth, Ga., home. He was 87.
The multitime track champion competed since the track’s 1965 opening and captured his final title in the Limited Late Model division in 2007. The racing community was asked to come to the track this afternoon as Brindle took a final lap following funeral services.
“He helped lay the literal foundation of these storied walls, leaving a permanent mark on what has become the Fastest Third-Mile in the South,” the track wrote on its Facebook page. “His dedication to this place was so well known that turn two became home to Brindle Tower, where so many came to visit, share stories, and enjoy race nights alongside him.”
Brindle, whose son Chip Brindle also became a successful dirt racer, was also one of the standout drivers for many years at Cleveland (Tenn.) Speedway among other tracks.
He co-owned and operated Brindle Bros. Auto Parts for more than 55 years.
Brindle was preceded in death by Faye, his wife of 49 years who died in September. Besides his one, Brindle is survived by children Teddy, Mike and Annie along with three grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the Brindle family asks that donations be sent to @anniebrindle or dropped off at Shawn Chapman Funeral Home. All donations will go toward an upcoming Leon Brindle Memorial Race, with 100 percent of funds paid out to the top three finishers.
