Bernie Partridge
One of the original groups of NHRA Division Directors, who with NHRA Founder Wally Parks supervised regional operation of the fledgling sanctioning body in the early 60s. Bernie Partridge’s multitalented skills were exceeded only by his passion for drag racing. As a member of the Dust Devils Car Club, he helped operate Inyokern Drag Strip from its opening in 1954. He often pulled double duty announcing a race, then competing in everything from stockers to his Desoto powered modified roadster. When Parks heard his voice, Bernie was invited to announce at the 1958 Nationals in Oklahoma City. Serving as NHRA’s Chief Announcer for nearly 30 years, a milestone of Bernie’s career came at the 1962 NHRA Nationals when he first used the nickname “Big Daddy”, a title that has been part of the Garlits legend every sense. In late 1962, Partridge became the first Division Seven Director, a position he held for 17 years. Partridge was named Western Regional Director of NHRA, National Field Administrator in 1981, and finally Vice President of Field Operations in 1982. Retiring in 1989 Partridge was instrumental in the founding of NHRA’s California Hot Rod Reunion and Street Legal programs. Partridge’s dedication and willingness to accept and meet challenges have contributed greatly to the immense popularity enjoyed by drag racing today.