Better known as a sportscar driver, who raced in that discipline for over 20 years. Largely competed in Trans-Am and IMSA events, and initially stopped racing in 1990. However son Max (which is Rusty's real name) also built a career in sportscars, and so Rusty, who started racing in 1972, carried on until 2000 racing with Max. He retired from racing after that. Eldest son Scott also raced briefly. Schmidt played golf before taking up motor racing. He acquired the name Rusty due to his hair colour, but also to avoid confusion as his father was also called Max. Rusty graduated from the University of Illinois with a degree in accounting but soon became interested in racing instead. He was best associated with racing Corvette cars, racing them for 14 years. He was named Sports Car Club of America Rookie of the Year in 1974. His favourite event was the 24 Hours of Daytona, which he raced every year for 20 years. Away from racing, Rusty owned a number of businesses, including a cafe, restaurant and construction firms. He was a keen hunter and even, with his wife, Geri, reached the finals of the 1984 Illinois Curling championships. Sadly died in 2018.

Biography last updated 17 Mar 2018