He would gain prominence in 1973 when he defeated Gary Beck a two-time U.S. Nationals champion, in the 1973 NHRA World Finals at the high altitude Amarillo Dragway.
Another notable race came in 1977 when he defeated "Big Daddy" Don Garlits at the Top Fuel Auto Club Raceway Winternationals in Pomona, California.
In the 1977 NHRA Summernationals he achieved the fastest time in drag racing history of 255.63 mph while piloting Don Garlits’ “Swamp Rat".
Ruth would also become the first driver to win both Funny Car and Top Fuel finals at the same pro event, a feat he would accomplish three more times.
His brother Bill continued in his fathers footsteps operating W. E. Ruth Real Estate for many years, very visibly by using a caboose as his office next door to the family home.