Harlan Fengler - Boy Wonder

Harlan Fengler was a big personality in the American auto racing scene from the early years of his career as a driver in the 1920s, to late in life when he served as a United States Auto Club (USAC) official some 50 years later into the 1970s. Known as the  "Boy Wonder" of the board tracks, Fengler competed in one Indianapolis 500 in 1923, finishing 16th. He was chief steward of the race from 1958 to 1974.
 
Before becoming a driver, Fengler, like many of his contemporaries, served as a riding mechanic. In 1922 he rode to second place in the "500," with his mentor, Harry Hartz, driving. Fengler played a variety of roles in racing, notably as a mechanic event referee.
 
Thanks to the Paul Sheedy Collection for this photo. 
 
From Bud Miller - The ..”Boy Wonder”…Harlan Fengler was also a ..great driver…on the fast..&..high banked Board Tracks…he finished 4th…Nov. 29, 1923…at the beautiful…1 1/4 mile…Beverly Hills Speedway…that had large flower Vases..&..blooming flower boxes fronting the grandstands…Fengler then won the last race at Beverly Hills…Feb. 24, 1924….I enjoyed talking to him..back in the early 50,s…in the pits at…Carrell Speedway (Gardena, Calif.)