Dean (Buck) Kinney
About
Dean Buck Kinney, also known as Uncle Buck, was a beloved figure in West Coast drag racing for nearly five decades. Born in New Westminster, BC in 1933, Buck's journey began in his teens with the Pit Meadows Stompers Car Club, quickly becoming a central figure in organized drag racing in British Columbia. Known for his skill, he earned a reputation at tracks across Canada and the US.
especially at Mission Raceway, where he dominated stock and superstock categories with a series of big block-powered Chevrolets, including his signature 1971 Chevelle convertible, Buck Kinney's Special. Among Buck's notable achievements was his dedication to record-setting performances and his ability to compete at the highest levels.
Over his career, he earned six class wins at the prestigious Winter Nationals and captured multiple divisional titles, including a division six points championship in 1991. Known for his signature wheels up launches and precision driving, Buck made eight final round appearances at NHRA divisional events and set five class records. His pursuit of excellence and methodical approach to car tuning made him a respected and admired competitor in the drag racing community.
While Buck is no longer with us, his legacy lives on in the Canadian drag racing community. His final years included building a Malibu to help young racers gain on-track experience, a testament to his lifelong commitment to the sport. Buck Kinney's contributions and his influence on the drag racing community continue to be fondly remembered. Accepting his posthumous induction into the Canadian Drag Racing Hall of Fame is Wayne Darby..