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Chester "Chet" Dykgraaf

Chester "Chet" Dykgraaf

1914 - 2011

Chet's Journey: The Life and Legacy of a Motorcycle Racing Pioneer

Chet’s racing career began in 1938 with a modest yet triumphant start—winning his very first race. In those early days, the stakes were low, with first place earning a mere $3, second place $2, and third place $1. However, as the sport gained traction, Chet turned his passion into a lucrative profession, raking in approximately $300 each week. This remarkable income made him one of the highest-earning racers of his time, establishing his reputation on the national racing circuit.


In 1942, Chet entered a pivotal partnership with John Esler, a local Norton dealer. Together, they dominated the national circuit, consistently winning races in the Midwest for a year. However, Chet made a bold move the following year by switching to Harley-Davidson and parting ways with Esler. This decision proved fruitful as he became one of the top racers in the country for the next three years. In 1946, he capped off his season with a victory in the Springfield race, earning the title of national champion. Chet’s success continued in 1949 when he claimed victory at the Charity Newsies Race, further solidifying his status as a racing legend.


Tragedy struck later that year when Chet was involved in a devastating accident at the Darlington Speedway in South Carolina. The crash left him with severe injuries, including broken legs, and his doctor warned that he might never walk again. Yet, in a display of sheer determination and resilience, Chet returned to racing just a year later, defying the odds stacked against him.


Chet's tenacity and spirit shone brightly throughout his career, but another accident a few years later ultimately forced him to hang up his racing leathers for good. He sold his last motorcycle in 1982 at the age of 79, marking the end of an era.


Despite his retirement, Chet remains deeply connected to the sport he loves, often reflecting on the evolution of motorcycle racing. He notes the stark contrast between today’s high-performance machines and the Harleys of his youth. "They’re living it up!" he quipped, reminiscing about the modern racers. "Some of them have airplanes. All they do is throw a leg over the machine. They've got mechanics. They just have to show up. We didn't even have brakes!"


Chet's journey from a rookie racer to a national champion exemplifies the spirit of perseverance and passion that defines the world of motorcycle racing. His legacy lives on as an inspiration to current and future generations of racers who share his love for the open road and the thrill of the race.

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