MERLE BETTENHAUSEN SUFFERS STROKE

Feature photo: Merle Bettenhausen on the infield in the Turner built Offy at N.Z. Western Springs Speedway circa 1969-70 season, Image by renowned Aukland photographer the late Bruce Kent, photo: courtesy of Ann Murray.

News from Indianapolis, Indiana indicates former United States Auto Club Midget-Speedcar star Merle Bettenhausen, 82, has suffered a stroke.

He was admitted to the Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis. Initial medical reports indicate he is having difficultry speaking as further tests and brain scans continue.

Merle toured Australia several times in the late’ sixties with Bob Tattersall.