Howie "Scooter" Scannell - Athlete (Stock Car Racing) - Class of 2024

Howie “ Scooter”  Scannell could never pass up a race. Howie’s relationship with the racing industry goes back to the start of organized racing in Ontario at the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE). He spent time at various racetracks supporting others and leading by the great example that he was.

From the Pinecrest Speedway to Delaware Speedway and many more, he was always a threat to win. Racing in Quebec, the U.S., and closer to home, he confidently built a fan following throughout Ontario and beyond.

Going back to his early days of borrowing money to purchase a super modified car from Joy Fair in Michigan, he won his first night in that car, setting the stage for a successful string of victories.

With 10,000 spectators in attendance, Howie notably was the first-ever racer to win at the CNE Stadium Speedway. The Globe and Mail subsequently wrote after his victory that Howie Scannell was one of the most talented stock car racers in all of Canada.

The 1960 season marked an improvement for Howie, where he consistently finished in the top ten and was now racing up front with the top drivers at the Lakeshore oval. He seemed to win on any track he raced on regardless of the car. Howie had that unstoppable talent.

In 2021, Howie was inducted into the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame. 

He went on to drive for many notable race car owners and was a staple in the racing industry, perhaps making the number 99 famous before even Wayne Gretzky. Howie was always encouraging other drivers to get into the sport and acted as a mentor for those who showed an interest. 

Racing runs in the family, with both his son, Howie Jr., and grandson, Matthew, eventually getting behind the wheel. It's no surprise that Howie’s legacy is as permanent as they come.