Meirick Adds Another Street Eliminator Championship

A season’s long battle for the championship in the Street Eliminator category came down to three at the final event of the season.  Tim Meirick found himself leading his two closest competitors, Buck Smith and Cory Hanson, by less than two rounds.  With fame and glory on the line, Meirick battled to a final round appearance to lock in the championship—the second of his career. 

Dodge Center MN’s Tim Meirick has had a passion for cars since he was 13 years old.  Road trips to North East Iowa Timing Association (now Cedar Falls Motorsports Park) engrained the love of muscle cars, setting Tim onto the sights of someday being a racer himself.  Tim started racing in 1976 before setting racing aside to raise his family.  Returning in 1996 and visiting Rock Falls Raceway, his desire to race was reignited.  “I purchased a ’70 Cutlass and slowly built it into a race car.  The very first pass was 18 seconds!” said Meirick. “Over time, I improved it and painted it blue to match the car I had back in 1976.”

After Tim acquired his childhood (and fan!) favorite 1969 Hurst Olds, the winning started. To date, Tim has earned four Wisconsin State Championships, two Street Eliminator Track Championships, four MDRA Class Championships, and won his class at the Hurst Olds Nationals—also claiming the King of the Track at that event.  Though the victories are sweet, Tim talked about the enjoyment he has in the Street Eliminator category. “One of the things we (with wife Sheila) enjoy the most about racing is the fun we share with our race family—the camaraderie, support, and friendly competition.  A highlight of this past year was cheering on fellow racers at the 2025 ET Finals. It was our first time attending, and the experience was incredible. I’m especially grateful to my wife for sharing my passion for this sport, as well as to the Rock Falls Raceway staff who make it such a great place to race.”

When he isn’t turning on win lights, Tim and Sheila enjoy spending time with their children and grandchildren and relaxing at their home in the country.  You can often find them out riding four-wheelers, playing games, or exploring new towns in the area.  If there’s a small town car show or car museum, you’re likely to spot them there!

Tim thanked his family for their support in his racing journey.  “When I met Sheila, I realized how rewarding it was to have a life partner that wanted to be a part of racing. Her support and encouragement makes every day wonderful, and I’m so thankful to have her by my side.”   

Congratulations to your 2025 Rock Falls Raceway Street Eliminator Champion, Tim Meirick!