Arnie Knepper

Arnold A. "Arnie" Knepper (October 10, 1930 – June 6, 1992), was an American racecar driver.

Born in Belleville, Illinois, Knepper also died there from cancer. He drove in the USAC Championship Car series, racing in the 1963–1972 seasons, with 75 career starts and finished in the top ten 21 times. His best finishes were in 3rd position twice in 1966. He competed in the 1965-1969 Indianapolis 500 races, his top finish coming in 1965 when he came in 18th. Knepper earned a small place in Indianapolis lore when he crashed on the 87th lap of the 1969 Indianapolis 500, and instead of making the typical dash to trackside safety, stood up on his car and, facing 180-mph oncoming traffic, frantically waved his arms to warn oncoming drivers of the danger.

Indianapolis 500 results Year Chassis Engine Start Finish 1965 Kurtis Kraft Offy 19th 18th 1966 Cecil Ford 26th 29th 1967 Cecil Ford 18th 22nd 1968 Vollstedt Offy 32nd 25th 1969 Cecil Ford 21st 22nd 1970 Gerhardt OffyFailed to qualify 1971 Cecil FordFailed to qualify 1972 Eagle OffyFailed to qualify