In a heartfelt tribute to sprint car racing royalty, the small town of Oolitic, Indiana, has unveiled a highway sign honoring the legendary father-son duo of Karl and Mark Kinser. The ceremony, held May 9 on the porch of city hall, celebrated the deep connection between these motorsports icons and their hometown.

Karl Kinser stands as the most successful owner and crew chief in sprint car history, having amassed an incredible 17 World of Outlaws Championships and 12 Knoxville Nationals victories. But his genius extended far beyond ownership—Karl designed and built the chassis and engines that powered his cars to glory on tracks across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Australia, whether on asphalt or dirt, indoors or outdoors.

During the unveiling, Karl took a moment to reflect on his journey. "I want to acknowledge driver Larry Miller," he said, recalling their partnership in the 1960s when Karl left drag racing for the sprint car world. Together, they found enormous success with the Karl Kinser-built roadster, affectionately known as "Big Bertha."

The Kinser racing legacy runs deep in the family. Karl's son, Mark Kinser, carved his own path behind the wheel, winning two World of Outlaws Championships and three Knoxville Nationals while driving for his father. Mark's career began when he took over the iconic Big Bertha machine that had been sitting in Karl's shop.

And then there's Steve Kinser, Karl's nephew, who received the ultimate compliment from his uncle: "Steve Kinser was a God-given chauffeur." Steve, also an Oolitic resident, is widely regarded as one of the greatest sprint car drivers of all time.

The new sign will stand proudly at the entrance to Oolitic, near the "Welcome to Oolitic" sign along Indiana State Road 37—a permanent reminder of the speed, skill, and family tradition that put this small town on the racing map. The Saturday ceremony doubled as a homecoming, with friends and racing associates gathering to share memories and snap photos, celebrating a legacy that continues to inspire fans and drivers alike.

For any sprint car enthusiast, this tribute is a fitting honor for a family whose name is synonymous with the sport's golden era. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to dirt track racing, the Kinser story is one of passion, innovation, and the unbreakable bond between a father, his son, and the roar of the engine.