Terry Pletch Obituary, FRANKFORT, Ind. — Terry Pletch, the longtime sprint car racer and 1999 Indiana Sprint Week winner, has died at the age of 79, according to USAC Racing, which announced his passing and paid tribute to his contributions to the sport.
A native of Frankfort, Indiana, Pletch built a racing career that spanned more than two decades. During his USAC career, he made 98 national starts between 1982 and 2006, spending much of that time competing in his own Pletch Pools No. 29 car.
Pletch became known among racing fans for his competitiveness, perseverance, and dedication to sprint car racing. His career included one USAC national victory, a memorable triumph during Indiana Sprint Week at the Terre Haute Action Track in 1999.
That victory remains one of the defining moments of Pletch’s racing career. Starting 21st, he charged through the field to capture the win despite the difficult starting position. He also completed the race with a flat right front tire, adding to the dramatic nature of the victory.
Before the race, Pletch had expressed confidence in his chances during an ESPN2 broadcast, saying, “I can win it from the tail, good lord willing.” He went on to accomplish exactly that, turning his prediction into an unforgettable racing moment and securing his only USAC national win.
USAC Racing announced Pletch’s death while remembering the racer and the mark he left on the organization. “Farewell, racer. Terry Pletch passed away today at the age of 79,” the organization said in its tribute.
Pletch’s career and his 1999 Indiana Sprint Week victory remain part of USAC racing history. His perseverance behind the wheel and the memories created throughout his years of competition earned him a lasting place among the drivers remembered by sprint car fans.
As the racing community mourns Terry Pletch, condolences are extended to his family, friends, teammates, fellow racers, and the many fans who followed his career. His legacy will continue through the memories of his remarkable performances, particularly the night he raced from 21st to victory at Terre Haute in 1999.
