It is with a strong sense of gratitude, and sadness as well, that we announce Tom Bagley’s retirement as Member Driving Instructor/Director of Racing Instruction at Autobahn Country Club. Tom has been with the Club since its inception and was instrumental in getting Autobahn off the ground and recognized as an industry leader among motorsports clubs.
There is not enough space on one page to acknowledge all of Tom’s contributions to Autobahn over the years. Tom left the comfort of Ohio to come to Illinois to work for a business with an unproven concept. Tom helped make that concept a reality, as he worked closely with track designer, Alan Wilson, to ensure an exhilarating but safe road course that would appeal to amateur car enthusiasts. Tom established the safety standards for our facility – from tire wall construction and guard rail locations to setting driver qualification criteria. No small task given that there was no comparable facility in the United States. Tom is particularly recognized for his focus on driver safety, and Tom set the standard for our Club and the industry.
Tom created Autobahn’s driver development programs, provided top quality driving instruction to members and guests, and helped develop Autobahn’s member racing series to what it is today, the most robust racing series among all motorsports clubs. We are very proud and fortunate to have had Tom on our team for the past 16 years.
As a very well-respected driver of Indy cars, Tom gave Autobahn instant credibility. We cannot thank Tom enough for his contributions to Autobahn, as well as his friendship and kindness. Although we will sorely miss Tom as an employee, we will continue to enjoy Tom’s company as a member of the Club and hope to see Tom and Sally often.
Please reach out to Tom to say, “Thank You” and “Congratulations” as Tom enters a new phase in his life and enjoys just being a member of the Autobahn Country Club!
THE AUTOBAHN MANAGEMENT TEAM
