"Where it all began..."

DON PEARSALL JOINS S.A.F.E.R. HALL OF FAME
by Joe Larsen

     The Suffolk Association of Figure Eight Racing has added Don Pearsall to its prestigious Ernie Maynor Memorial Hall of Fame.

     Pearsall, a top runner in the 1960's and 1970's, was usually the man to beat each and every week at Islip Speedway.  Don won many feature events and was a track champion.

     Pearsall's blue number two-of-diamonds was always ready and in good condition.  And of course, who could forget Don't cigar?  It was so big it looked like a tree trunk. Former Figure Eight driver and one-time teammate John Kraft once offered to light his cigar and Don said," I don't light 'em, I just chew 'em."

     Don not only ran nice equipment, but he was also very safety conscious and was one of the first drivers to wear a firesuit on a regular basis.

     Pearsall is enjoying life in Florida these days and will be a welcome addition to the Hall of Fame. 

Reprinted from 1999 SAFER Yearbook