Jonathan Byrd's Racing was created in 1982 by business owner Jonathan Byrd and initially ran Pro Stock with driver Jim Begley. Later, they won a few USAC Midget car championships with Rich Vogler. The team first entered the Indianapolis 500 in 1985 with Vogler. Vogler ran for the Byrd team at Indianapolis from 1985-1990, with a best finish of eighth in 1989. The death of team manager Andy Kenopensky from cancer caused the team to be merged with Hemelgarn Racing. Stan Fox replaced drivers Rich Vogler and Billy Vukovich III, who both died in sprint car accidents before racing at the 1991 Indianapolis 500. Fox would finish eighth in 1991. Gordon Johncock came out of retirement to qualify Stan Fox's backup car, fell ill before the race due to the flu and an allergic reaction, but was able to compete and finish sixth. Buddy Lazier would also race for the team, finishing thirty-third. Stan Fox and Gordon Johncock returned as drivers for the 1992 Indianapolis 500.