Five-Time Speedbowl Championship Owner Margaret “Peg” Gaudreau Passes
Waterford, CT — Waterford Speedbowl management was deeply saddened to learn one of the most celebrated car owners in track history, Margaret Gaudreau, passed away Tuesday evening at home after her battle with ALS. Gaudreau, of Norwich, CT, was 68.
Gaudreau, known as “Peg” throughout the racing community, owned Modifieds during the 1970’s built by her late husband Al, who passed away in April. Together they fielded one of the most dominant race teams of all-time at Waterford, claiming five consecutive Modified division owner’s titles from 1972-1976 and more race wins than any other during the decade.
Peg’s number 3 car, affectionately known as “Buddha’s Bullet” after Al, became widely recognized across northeast racing circles with Dick Dunn behind the wheel. Peg and her husband made countless lasting friendships in racing, including some of the sport’s biggest stars of the era such as Richie Evans and Ed Flemke among others. The Gaudreau’s remain one of the Speedbowl’s most well-known and respected race teams of all-time.
Peg was hugely involved in the team’s success and was a pioneer in the inclusion of women in the sport of auto racing. She challenged and was successful in the acceptance of women in the pit area, a place females had traditionally not been allowed, further cementing her legacy in track history. While she bravely battled ALS she was able to attend multiple race events in 2013, enjoying many friends and a sport she contributed so much to.
The family will receive friends and relatives Friday from 5pm – 9pm at Labenski Funeral Home, located at 107 Boswell Avenue in Norwich, CT. Funeral Services will be held Saturday.
Donations may be made in her honor to the ALS Association, Connecticut Chapter or to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.
Sources: Brian Darling/Waterford Speedbowl PR