Rodger Ward, American race car driver and sportscaster (d. 2004)

Rodger M. Ward (January 10, 1921 – July 5, 2004) was a remarkable American figure, seamlessly transitioning from a decorated military aviator to a celebrated motorsport icon. His legacy encompasses not only a distinguished career as a P-38 pilot during World War II but also an unparalleled record as one of the most successful open-wheel race drivers in North American history, capped by a profound impact on track design.

Ward served with distinction as a P-38 Lightning aviator in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. The Lockheed P-38, a formidable twin-engined, twin-boom fighter, was renowned for its speed, range, and versatility, playing crucial roles in various theaters of the war. This experience honed Ward's precision, courage, and decision-making skills, attributes that would prove invaluable in his subsequent high-speed racing career.

A Champion on the Racetrack

Following his military service, Rodger Ward transitioned to the equally demanding world of professional motorsport, where he quickly established himself as a dominant force in open-wheel racing. His career was marked by an impressive 26 victories in top-echelon events across North America, showcasing his exceptional driving talent and competitive spirit.

The Architectural Visionary: Pocono Raceway

Beyond his prowess behind the wheel, Rodger Ward left an indelible architectural mark on motorsports by conceiving the unique tri-oval design and layout of Pocono International Raceway in Long Pond, Pennsylvania. This innovative concept, often referred to as the "Tricky Triangle," was groundbreaking in its approach to track design. Ward's vision for Pocono was an ingenious amalgamation of elements inspired by his three favorite signature turns from iconic North American racetracks, each contributing a distinct challenge to the overall circuit:

Turn 1 (Pocono) – Inspired by Trenton Speedway:
The first turn at Pocono was modeled after the challenging configuration of the now-defunct Trenton Speedway in New Jersey. This turn features a long radius with a significant degree of banking, demanding high-speed precision and smooth car control, much like Trenton's sweeping, fast corners.
Turn 2 (Pocono) – Inspired by Indianapolis Motor Speedway:
The middle turn at Pocono directly reflects the legendary turns of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indiana. This relatively flat turn, characterized by its long, sweeping arc, pays homage to the unique, subtle nuances and high-speed flow required to navigate the "Brickyard's" corners effectively.
Turn 3 (Pocono) – Inspired by Milwaukee Mile:
The final turn at Pocono draws inspiration from the historic Milwaukee Mile in Wisconsin, the oldest continuously operating motor racing track in the world. Characterized by its tighter radius and considerable banking, this turn provides a sharp contrast to Turn 2, mirroring Milwaukee's short, high-banked corners that required aggressive throttle input and precise car placement.

This pioneering tri-oval design created a truly distinctive and demanding circuit that challenged drivers with three vastly different corners, making Pocono International Raceway one of the most unique and strategic venues in motorsports. Rodger M. Ward's foresight not only shaped the careers of countless drivers but also permanently altered the landscape of American open-wheel racing, establishing him as a true visionary both on and off the track.

Frequently Asked Questions about Rodger M. Ward

What was Rodger Ward's military service?
Rodger M. Ward served as a P-38 aviator in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II, flying the distinctive twin-engined Lockheed P-38 Lightning fighter.
How many Indianapolis 500 races did Rodger Ward win?
Rodger Ward won the prestigious Indianapolis 500 race twice, securing victories in 1959 and 1962.
What is the significance of Rodger Ward's involvement with Pocono Raceway?
Rodger Ward is credited with conceiving the classic and innovative tri-oval design and layout of Pocono International Raceway. He modeled the three distinct turns of the track after his favorite signature corners from other legendary speedways: Trenton, Indianapolis, and Milwaukee.
How many USAC National Championships did Rodger Ward win?
Rodger Ward won two USAC National Championships, achieving this remarkable feat in 1959 and 1962, the same years as his Indianapolis 500 victories.