Speedbowl rocked by the passing of Richard “Bubby” Brouwer Jr.

WATERFORD — The entire New London-Waterford Speedbowl famiy was in a state of shock Tuesday when it was learned that Richard “Bubby Brouwer had died of cancer at the age of 53.

Brouwer had been involved with the Speedbowl for more than 30 years as a competitor and an employee.

He will best be remembered for his ability to fix anything at the Speedbowl to keep the track running. It didn’t matter if it was pumping water out of the infield and parking lot, or cleaning the track after a trailer race covered the track with debris, Bubby always could be counted on to get the job done.

There was a cliché at the track that said nothing was officially broken until Bubby said he couldn’t fix it. And that seldom happened. 

There were many stories of Brouwer’s ability to work with what he had, usually limited resources, and get things done.

In 2006, a Friday night thrill show left the track looking like a trash dump. Brower worked all night getting the track ready for a special July 4 show that would be taking place the next day. Not only was the track in tip-top condition, three Speedbowl records were set that day in time trials qualifying. That was a tribute to how well Brower was able to do a job that bordered on the impossible.

He also will be known for his unique, colorful personality. His perceived crankiness was just part of the act — when you got to know Bubby, he was a man with a big heart who would do anything for his friends — and anything for the Speedbowl.

He had a great career as a driver — 31 victories, including 30 wins and two championships in the Speedbowl’s X-Modified divison driving the No. 16 car. He was such a dominant driver that at one time track officials considered starting him one-lap down to create more excitement.

Brouwer refused, saying he didn’t want to detract from any of his competitors. That was a big part of Bubby’s game — respect for his fellow driver.

He was part mad scientist, doing whatever it took to keep the Speedbowl up and running with his own special flair.

Bubby Brouwer’s legacy is a huge one — as a driver, as the track caretaker, as a hard worker, and especially as a friend.

He will be missed by all who call the New London-Waterford Speedbowl home. Bubby