William D. Yoak: This aircraft was acquired by the late Leroy Penhall during the late 1960's.It was entered at Reno from 1970-73 under Penhall's ownership.Penhall also appeared at Reno in 1969 with the intention of entering it (in competition) ,but was unable to because of a rule that required all contestants in the Unlimited Class to have a Commercial "Ticket". Penhall went on to obtain his Commercial Pilot's License and obtain more experience in the aircraft prior to entering it at Reno in 1970.

Penhall was known for his business-- The Penhall Co.(concrete and demolition contractor) which is still in business today and has eperienced considerable growth over the years.In addtion Leroy was also the father of famed motorcycle racer and "CHIP's" (t.v. series ) actor-Bruce Penhall. Penhall was also the owner of what was Fighter Imports which imported and prepared several Candian F-86's and T-33's for private owners.

Leroy's Mustang suffered extensive damage during a forced landing following an engine failure at Oshkosh in 1974.I must say that I am not certain as to the final outome of this aircraft in the years subsequent to the incident,but would venture to guess that it was used for parts and/or has been "remanufactured" and appears today as a restored flying example.


Leo Smiley: P-51D-25-NA, 44-74012, N6519D When owned by Leroy Penhall and raced as #81. Once described by Bob Hoover as "the best balanced mustang I have flown". She shows as ex-RCAF 9243, ex-N6518D and C-GPSI in "Mustang Survivors" owned by Duane Williams in 1987. Shown as owned by James Smith on this website as N6519D. Anyone have a picture?