There is always rumbling in the pits on any given race day at any given track. A flurry of cars, crews, officials, track personnel, tire, parts and gas suppliers, haulers, trailers and people to man it all create constant motion and energy. At Waterford Speedbowl, nestled in the heart of this pit activity, is Welder Charlie Dimmock. The smells emitting form the area of his truck and tools are not just those of heat and metal but inviting aromas of comfort food steaming, stewing and grilling by Charlie’s wife Mary she says “ for the help and those who linger about.” The atmosphere is upbeat, jovial and positive.

The man-of-the-hour, Charlie, is fired up and shielded. By his side is Grandson Justin Hunt or Dan Garside, welders in training. At the end of his welding torch is some racecar part in trouble belonging to an anxiously awaiting potential victory lane honoree. Charlie is calm and accurate using his welding torch with the skill of an artist.

The picture is of competence and caring. Charlie, in his dungaree overalls and bearded smiling face. is the center of that picture. A self-taught welder, Charlie has been at “The Bowl” for 40 years. He began welding at age 14 and at age 68 is still going strong. His early days at the track were spent building modified racecars. Formerly a truck driver by profession, Charlie lost his leg and is now equipped with a wooden one. He arrives in the “Pit” 12:45pm every race day and stays till the end, which could be midnight.

Quite a man this Charlie Dimmock, without a doubt a fond memory in the lives of many a race junkie.