Bud Tingelstad

Bud Tingelstad (April 4, 1928 - July 30, 1981): An American racing driver whose consistency and determination earned him respect throughout a decade of Indianapolis 500 competition. Tingelstad competed extensively in the USAC Championship Car series during the 1960s and early 1970s, making 120 starts between the 1960 and 1971 seasons. His dedication to the sport was demonstrated by his participation in the Indianapolis 500 every year except 1961 and 1970 during this period, making ten starts at the Brickyard. While 1964 proved to be his most successful season, with his best Indianapolis 500 finish of sixth place (not fourth as sometimes reported) and a best Championship points finish of fifth overall, Tingelstad was primarily known for his remarkable consistency rather than spectacular victories.

Over his USAC career, he accumulated 56 top-ten race finishes, demonstrating the steady, reliable performances that made him a valued competitor. His single victory came in 1966 at DuQuoin, providing a career highlight in an otherwise consistent but unspectacular racing resume. Tingelstad represented the dedicated professional racer who formed the backbone of American open-wheel racing during its golden era - not always the fastest or most celebrated, but always present, always competitive, and always professional. His career exemplified the journeyman racer who made dozens of teams competitive through skill, experience, and an unwavering work ethic.

After more than a decade of high-level competition, Tingelstad's racing career concluded in 1971. He passed away a decade later on July 30, 1981, remembered by those who raced alongside him as a dependable competitor who brought professionalism and consistency to every race he entered during the glory days of USAC Championship Car racing.