When the history books are written, one name will stand out amongst the greatest SCCA Trans Am drivers of all time – Tommy Kendall. Moreover, he’s had success in a number of different categories of race cars during his career and has raced with and against some of the greatest names in racing history. His comeback from massive lower extremity injuries suffered at Watkins Glen Raceway in June of 1991 proved his desire and determination to succeed no matter what. He won multiple championships after that shunt. Now retired (for the most part) from racing, he parlays his knowledge behind the microphone and in front of the camera to the delight of legions of racing fans. After his duties as an MC during the “Racing Goes Safer, Driver Safety Seminar” hosted by the Stand 21 Safety Foundation at the 2022 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, we had a chance to catch up with Tommy and hear some incredible stories from his racing career. Enjoy!
By Larry Mason Copyright © 2022 Larry Mason TK head shot Tommy Kendall is a Hall of Fame racing champion and is currently a host of The Torque Show. safety seminar Levy and Kendall crop Motorsports Hall of Fame of America President George Levy and Tommy Kendall share the lectern for the 2023 class inductees announcement during the Stand 21 Safety Seminar at the 2022 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. TK and Yves crop After the Safety Seminar, Tommy Kendall paused for a quick photo op with Don Taylor (who organized the safety seminar) on his left and Yves Morizot (of Stand 21) on his right. TK and friends super crop Following the Safety Seminar, Tommy Kendall shows off his copy of the book 50 Years with Stand 21 (signed by the author Yves Morizot). Tommy is standing next to George Levy (president of Motorsports Hall of Fame of America) and John Zimmermann (RACER magazine founding editor). Interview and photos Copyright © by Larry Mason