Audi Club History
Frank Beddor was truly one in a million. His life was defined by daring adventures, groundbreaking promotions, philanthropy, and entrepreneurial success. A seasoned water-skier, scuba diver, skydiver, and marathoner, Frank’s feats were legendary. In 1950, he undertook an extraordinary 15,000-mile journey from Minnesota to Ecuador on his Harley, towing his Great Dane, Rowdy, in a cart. In 1953, he set an 1800-mile record by water-skiing the Mississippi River from Minneapolis to New Orleans, dressed in a Paul Bunyan suit. At 79, he embraced the thrill of hang-gliding in Rio.
In 1984, Frank’s purchase of five Sport quattros, imported from Europe for personal use, caught the attention of Audi of America. They encouraged him to form a club for Audi enthusiasts, leading to the creation of the Quattro Club U.S.A. This organization aimed to let members experience the advantages of quattro all-wheel drive, learn advanced driving skills, and share their passion for Audi vehicles.
Frank’s belief in the quattro’s exceptional handling led him to rent tracks and invite family and friends to drive a fleet of quattros he provided. His knack for unforgettable events included arranging for Bobby Unser to land his twin-engine plane on the straightaway at Brainerd Raceway in Brainerd, MN.
From the start, a sense of family has been central to the Audi Club experience. The inaugural Quattro Club Safety Seminar Autocross was held at the Beddor’s “home track,” Brainerd International Raceway, in 1986. By the fifth event in 1991, Audi of America had invited journalists to test their press cars against Marilyn Beddor’s Audi V8 (D1). Hurley Haywood also contributed by advising the growing team of volunteer instructors.
As the club expanded, it evolved into Audi Club North America, spanning all 50 states and Canada. Membership grew from about 400 in the early days to around 10,000 today, spread across 32 chapters.
Today, Audi Club North America continues to embrace a forward-thinking approach, integrating independent clubs and digital communities into its fold. This inclusive strategy offers new groups a structured path to become recognized organizations with full membership benefits.
Become a part of Audi Club history. Join the club.
While the cars and technology have advanced over the decades, Audi Club North America’s mission has remained steadfast in educating owners to enhance their driving experience and share their passion for the Audi brand. Join us and become part of a community that celebrates the essence of Audi ownership and drives our shared enthusiasm forward.
1 Year
Membership
- Full membership access for 12 months
- 1 year subscription (4 issues) of quattro Magazine
- Include an optional Family Membership* for an additional $10 ($15 starting 1/1/25).
3 Years
Membership
- Full membership access for 36 months
- 3 years subscription (12 issues) of quattro Magazine
- Include an optional Family Membership* for an additional $25 ($40 starting 1/1/25).
Lifetime
Membership
- Full membership access for lifetime of member.
- Lifetime subscription to quattro Magazine.
- Include an optional Family Membership* at no additional cost.