John Kelly, of Pleasonton, California, a member of the SCCA since 1969, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday. He was 80 years old.
Kelly, along with his wife Pat, was an instrumental part of the formation and guidance of the San Francisco Region Solo program in the 1970’s that spawned many National Champions as well as arguably one of the largest and most successful Solo programs in the country.
A three-time National Champion in D Prepared (1980, ’81, and ’82), Kelly also served on the Solo Events Board. His largest contribution to the sport may have been through his autocross publication, North American Pylon, and wider ranging racing paper, MotoRacing. Prior to that, Kelly published the San Francisco Region’s newsletter, The Wheel.
Plans had already been underway to recognize the Kelly’s contributions during the Tire Rack Match Tour event in Crow’s Landing near Mr. and Mrs. Kelly’s hometown, April 23. Those plans will continue with added significance.
“I first met John at an SCCA National Convention in Denver in 1987 where we debated various Solo topics outside the Saturday night banquet hall until nearly midnight, and I think we both considered it a draw – which with John that was almost a win,” Howard Duncan, SCCA Senior Director of Solo and Rally, said. “While I had various vigorous debates with John in the years that followed, I always respected him for his passion and commitment. He will be missed!”