Bob Beazer – Odessa, ON

The Official NHRA “Rain Dancer”

About

For those of you who may have attended NHRA drag races in the 60s and 70s, or watched old footage, you may have remembered the “Canadian Indian” performing his no-rain dance before each event. The Canadian Indian is named Bob Beazer, or known as Beaz, by his friends.

Beazer was a member of the “Peaceful Pacers,” from Ontario, Canada during the late 1950s who would often attend Detroit area drag facilities. During the Peaceful Pacers attendance, local drag racers from the Detroit area would refer to the Canadian Drag Racers as “a bunch of Indians.” Beazer wanting to live up to the perception decided to dress up as an “Indian” just to cause a little ruckus in the Detroit drag racing scene. Beazer was subsequently hired to perform his no-rain dance before each NHRA event and became a staple at NHRA events for years.

In the 1980s, Beazer was also the owner and driver of the “1st Gasser”. Known as “’the Canadian Indian 41 Willy’s”, the car was built by S&W and ran a blown/injected Donovan.

Beazer donated his dress to the NHRA Museum. However, it was never put on display as to not offend individuals or groups in society. Three years ago, Beazer restored the dress to its original glamour. Today, Beazer can be found once again attending NHRA events on the west coast, performing his colourful rain dance, ensuring it won’t rain. Those who have had the privilege of meeting Beazer say he is your everyday “next door neighbour” with an unforgettable colourful character.