Cal Niday was born in Turlock, California, in 1914. A tragic motorcycle accident just after high school resulted in the loss of one of his legs. Intrigued by Midget racing, which did not require gear changes or the operation of a clutch pedal, Niday was drawn into the sport in the late-1930s. His success and talent opened the door to driving at the Indianapolis 500, which he did in 1953, 1954, and 1955, with a best finish of 10th Place. During the 1955 Indianapolis 500, he was running third late in the race when he crashed heavily in turn four. Niday was wearing the first Bell helmet ever used in the race, and he credited it with saving his life.

Around 1948, Niday built the beautiful Midget Racer offered here on a frame he received from Frank Kurtis. The car is otherwise Niday’s creation, and while its specific racing history is not recorded, it wears a 1947 AAA dash plaque showing no. 38. By the 1970s, the Midget was owned by Don Edmunds, who added an outside oil tank and a fuel filler on top of the tail. The car then went to Mr. Edmunds’ employer, Howard Linne, who sold it to Donald L. Weber circa 1980. Mr. Weber engaged Midget expert Gary Schroeder to restore the car after his purchase, and while it has not run in roughly 20 years, the quality of the work is apparent in its wonderful presentation.

*Please note that this car is sold on a Bill of Sale.