Three-time NASCAR National Modified champion Bugsy Stevens died on May 20. He was 90 years old.
Carl Steven Berghman began using the alias “Bugs Stevens” while competing in races at San Antonio’s Pan American Speedway while serving in the Air Force.
Stevens drove the famed No. 3 modified fielded by Lenny Boehler and the duo combined to win the NASCAR title in consecutive years from 1967 through 1969. The pairing also picked up eight track championships during that time frame.
“Bugsy Stevens was one of the greatest to race a modified, winning three consecutive NASCAR National Modified Championships (1967-69), and countless championships across tracks in the Northeast including Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park, Stafford Motor Speedway, and Seekonk Speedway,” NASCAR said in a statement on Monday afternoon. “A fan favorite who drew crowds to his races, he was one of the legendary drivers who piloted the iconic Ole Blue No. 3 car that still races today on the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour. Our thoughts are with Bugsy’s family and friends as we honor his life.”
Stevens later drove for Sonny Koszela, Bob Garbarino and Joe Brady among others.
Stevens owns 72 victories at Stafford Motor Speedway and 42 at Thompson Speedway.