Rick Woolner: A Legacy of Passion and Perseverance
In the world of Ontario Modified racing, few names evoke the same blend of respect, fear, and admiration as Rick Woolner. A true grassroots racer, Woolner was a dominant force on the track, known for his hard-nosed driving style and an unquenchable thirst for victory. His career, though tragically cut short, left an indelible mark on the sport and inspired the creation of one of OSCAAR’s most prestigious events: the Rick Woolner Memorial. This is a tribute to the man, the legend, and the race that keeps his spirit alive.
The Rick Woolner Memorial: A Championship Tradition
For over a decade, the Rick Woolner Memorial has stood as a crown jewel event for open-wheel Modifieds in Ontario. Now held under the OSCAAR sanction, this 50-lap feature at Varney Speedway Motorplex brings together the best drivers in the province to honour a competitor who embodied the heart and soul of modified racing. Winning this race is a mark of distinction, a victory that connects the current generation of racers to the rich history and fierce spirit of a true Ontario legend.
The Man Behind the Legend: Rick Woolner’s Story
Born on February 4, 1953, Rick Woolner’s racing journey began in 1983 in the street stock division. He quickly moved up the ranks, but it was in the open-wheel modifieds that he truly found his calling. Racing with his iconic #08, Woolner became a formidable presence at tracks across Ontario and the northeastern United States, collecting an impressive 55 feature wins throughout his career. While he competed everywhere, Varney Speedway was always his home.
A Dual-Threat Driver
Woolner was not just a one-dimensional racer. His talent extended beyond the open-wheel ranks, as demonstrated during a full season in 1994 when he piloted a late model in the highly competitive NASCAR Pro Stock Division at Holland Speedway, NY. However, his passion for modifieds brought him back to his roots. The following year, he was instrumental in establishing a new modified division at Sauble Speedway, where he put on a dominant display, winning nine consecutive features at one point during the season. This versatility showcased his adaptability and deep understanding of race car mechanics and setup.
A Fighter to the End
In 1999, while leading the Ontario Modifieds Association Thunder Series championship, Woolner’s health began to decline. What started as bronchitis symptoms was tragically diagnosed as lung cancer. Despite his deteriorating strength, his competitive spirit never waned. As his sister, Julia Stewart, recalled, he gave it his all until his body simply couldn’t continue, nearly collapsing after his final race. Knowing his time in the driver’s seat was over, Woolner made a decision that would shape the future of his team and the series. He hand-picked a young, determined driver named Gary McLean to finish the season in his car. On August 22, 1999, Rick Woolner passed away, but his legacy was far from over. Thanks to the substantial points lead Woolner had built, Gary McLean would go on to win the championship that year, a poignant tribute to the man who gave him the opportunity.
Rick Woolner was a complex and unforgettable character, whose personality was as impactful as his on-track performance. He was a man of contrasts, respected by all but feared by many who dared to challenge him for position.
The following list encapsulates the defining traits that made Rick Woolner a true icon of the sport.
- Aggressive Driving Style: Woolner was known for his “take no prisoners” approach on the track. He was not afraid to use his bumper to move a competitor, a style that earned him both rivals and a legion of loyal fans.
- The “Gruff” Exterior: Many described him as intimidating, with a scowl that could “melt ice from a distance.” He cultivated an image of toughness that often gave him a psychological edge before the green flag even dropped.
- A Hidden Softer Side: Beneath the tough exterior was a big-hearted man who would do anything to help a fellow driver in the pits. After a heated on-track battle, he was often the first to offer a handshake and share a post-race beer.
- Unwavering Dedication: For Rick, racing was everything. His family knew that race nights were sacred, and his commitment to the sport was absolute. He lived for the thrill of competition.
- A Mentor’s Eye for Talent: His decision to choose Gary McLean to take over his car demonstrated his sharp eye for talent and his desire to see his team succeed, even when he could no longer be behind the wheel.
These qualities combined to create a legacy that is about more than just wins and losses. It is a story of passion, grit, and a love for racing that continues to inspire the OSCAAR Modified community to this day.
The Champions’ Circle: Rick Woolner Memorial Winners
Winning the Rick Woolner Memorial is a prestigious honour, and the list of champions is a testament to the talent that competes in this event year after year. While many have tried, few have managed to capture the coveted title, and one name, in particular, has become synonymous with this race.
Below is the roll of honour, a list of the drivers who have celebrated in victory lane and paid tribute to Rick Woolner’s enduring legacy.
- 1999 – Jason McLellan
- 2000 – Gary McLean
- 2001 – Gary McLean
- 2002 – Gary McLean
- 2003 – Peter Walker
- 2004 – Gary McLean
- 2005 – Gary McLean
- 2006 – Brian McLean
- 2007 – Justin McLellan
- 2008 – Gary McLean
- 2009 – Gary McLean
- 2010 – Gary McLean
- 2011 – Gary McLean
- 2012 – Brent McLean
- 2013 – Gary McLean
- 2014 – Gary McLean
The dominance of Gary McLean in this event is a remarkable story in itself, a fitting continuation of the legacy that began when Rick Woolner entrusted him with his car. Each year, the memorial race not only honours a fallen hero but also adds a new chapter to the rich history of OSCAAR Modified racing.
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