Gardiner
Leavitt has raced on the dirt of Beech Ridge Speedway, the
high-banks of Dover (Delaware) International Speedway and
numerous short tracks in the northeast United States and eastern
Canada.
Affectionately called the "Geezer from Keezer",
Gardiner’s fifty-plus year involvement in auto racing began at
Beech Ridge in 1951. The white and red number "35" was
a familiar and popular site for race fans and competitors alike.
When the Late Model NASCAR North Tour was created in 1979,
Gardiner decided it was time to try something new. After twelve
years competing in NASCAR events from North Carolina and
Virginia to the Maritime Provinces of Canada, Gardiner retired
as a driver to take on the new role of tutor to young,
inexperienced drivers.
For over fifty years, Gardiner has worn the hats of race
driver and car owner, teacher, fabricator and race parts
supplier.
Gardiner and wife June have an extended "family of
friends" throughout the northeast.
Gardiner is a member of the Beech Ridge Speedway Hall of
Fame.
