NHRA - National Hot Rod Association

Respected NHRA track operator John “Sporty” Bandimere and NHRA event-winning Top Alcohol racers Jim and Annie Whiteley will be inducted as the 2026 members of the Colorado Motorsports Hall of Fame. They will be joined by 1976 NHRA Stock world champion Scott Main.

Bandimere will be recognized for his career in NHRA Drag Racing, where he has continued his family’s work in operating Bandimere Speedway, the most successful motorsports facility in Colorado history and longtime home of the NHRA Mile-High Nationals.  

The Whiteleys’ respective drag racing careers were marked by numerous low e.t.s, top speeds, and race victories. Jim is credited with two Top Alcohol Dragster world championships and 26 event wins, while Annie raced her way to six event wins in the Top Alcohol Funny Car division.

The Colorado Motorsports Hall of Fame is committed to honoring and preserving the achievements of individuals and organizations that have left an indelible mark on motorsports in Colorado and beyond. Inductees come from all facets of motorsports: drivers, builders, mechanics, owners, facility operators, and nonprofit organizations. And whether they come from being involved with racing on land, air, or water, they all have the same pedigree: a passion for speed, competition, and perfection.

Also being inducted are Al Duran (Figure-Eight), Bruce Rhoades (Modified Coupes), Dave Chambers (Modified Stock), Don Palmer (Modified), Fritz Kadlec (endurance motorcycle and snowmobile), Harry Stone (oval-track), Larry Ginardi (Late Model Stock Car), and Mike Applegate (motorcycle). The Rocky Mountain Riders will receive the 2026 Colorado Motorsports Hall of Fame J.C. Agajanian Award, given each year in recognition of exceptional contributions to Colorado motorsports by an organization.

The Class of 2026 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place Saturday, Oct. 24, at the Infinity Park Event Center in Glendale, Colo.