Official, sponsor, owner, entrant
Formerly an IndyCar owner and sponsor of the successful D-A Lubricant Specials, Binford was a leader in the formation of the United States Auto Club (USAC) and helped guide the sport at a critical time after the AAA Contest Board pulled out of racing suddenly in 1955. Binford served as USAC President for an extended time and also served as Board Chairman and in other important capacities. He also served as a Director and Chairman of ACCUS where his outstanding negotiating abilities played major roles in important decisions among the major sanctioning bodies in the United States. Tom was also a founder of Indianapolis Raceway Park and was instrumental in bringing the NHRA U.S. Nationals to the venue where it has enjoyed fantastic success for over 60 years. His greatest contribution to American motorsports may be his service to the Indianapolis 500. He was Chief Steward for more than 20 years, earning the respect of the entire racing community before his retirement following the 1995 race.