Diercks brothers pass on love for auto racing

Al and Dennis Diercks grew up around auto racing, and they have made an effort to share the fun they experienced through the sport.

The brothers have made an impact helping drivers enter and compete in the legends division at Hawkeye Downs Speedway. Al Diercks has helped sponsor Mitch Swinton's Lil Racer Car Club, providing an enjoyable time for kids at the race track.

The pair will continue their passion for the sport Friday night during weekly points races at Hawkeye Downs, starting at 7:30 p.m. Union Night at the Races, originally cancelled three weeks ago due to rain, will consist of features in all six divisions including two late model features.

The Diercks family were heavily involved in racing, including brothers Steve and Marty and parents, June and Martin. "Dr. Al," a chiropractor from the Quad Cities, said auto racing lost a generation of auto racing fans due to computers and other activities.

"We just want to see a lot of kids come to track, because we always had fun doing it," said Al Diercks. "There's nothing more exciting and fun than racing."

Al Diercks is third in the legends division behind leader and Wall of Fame member Kevin Korsmo and his brother. The Diercks brothers never worry about the standings.

"We just have a great time," said Diercks, who has been  known to leave work, race to Cedar Rapids and jump in the race car just in time to take the track. "It's not about anything else."

The Diercks brothers, whose legends cars are painted like "Cars" characters Lightning McQueen and Sally Carrera" have helped a number of drivers with their cars. With legends driver Warren Ropp, they have helped provide cars for drivers and even create a guide to set the car up so all new drivers have to do is haul the car to the track and race it on Friday nights. Matt Blake, the season points champ last year as a rookie. They also helped Mark Ironside, who is expected to join the division soon.

""It's all about the division and how to build it," Korsmo said. "We need more people out there thinking like that."

Korsmo said Blake had issues with the car last week and Al and Dennis Diercks were there to offer assistance, refusing to take advantage of the troubles.

"They spend time working with the people," Korsmo said. "Instead of saying his car doesn't work I'm going to beat him it's how can I help him be more competitive to help the division."

Al Diercks said many legends drivers have jumped right into NASCAR, including Kyle and Kurt Busch and Joey Logano. The class is challenging, and promotes strong camaraderie.

"It's a good division to start and stay in," Al Diercks said. "It's a lot of fun. You meet a lot of good friends."