This detailed illustrated history describes the emergence in North America of the 500cc displacement road racing cars known as FIIIs. It ranges from the start in 1950 right up to current Vintage racing, with descriptions of the cars, courses, organizations holding race events and the people involved, outlining the vast differences from the east coast vs. the west coast. Period photographs and other graphics are reproduced, many for the first time in print. The transition to FIV cars is discussed. By 1964, the initial movement was over and cars were idled, but within a few years, interest in Vintage road racing began, and gradually, many of the existing cars were reactivated. Both east and west coast Vintage events are covered, again with photographs and other images. This book also contains much road racing history (1950-1964), apart from that of the FIII class. Appendices cover surviving cars (both Coopers and other marques) with recent photographs of most. Other appendices cover racing organizations and a variety of technical topics related to racing the cars. No similar book on this subject exists until now.
Riding motorcycles is fun, but author Ken Condon maintains that there is a state of consciousness to be achieved beyond the simple pleasure of riding down the road. Riding in the Zone helps riders find that state of being. It's the experience of being physically and mentally present in the moment, where every sense is sharply attuned to the ride. Your mind becomes silent to the chatter of daily life, and everyday problems seem to dissolve. You feel a deeper appreciation for life. Your body responds to this state of being with precise, fluid movements, you feel in balance, your muscles are relaxed, and it seems as though every input you make is an expression of mastery. This is "the Zone." Condon identifies all of the factors that affect entering the Zone and addresses each one individually, from the development of awareness and mental skills to mastering physical control of the motorcycle. At the end of each chapter are drills designed to transform the book's ideas into solid, practical riding skills. Riding in the Zone takes riders to the next level in their skill set.
Motorsport has many iconic names attached to it. It has many that are celebrated as heroes in their chosen sport. However, what perhaps is less well known is how many of the motorsport icons of the twentieth century carried out acts of real-life bravery, many during war time, but some in selfless acts of bravery in saving the lives of their fellow competitors. Some of the iconic names of motorsport are linked to the great conflicts of the twentieth century. Enzo Ferrari served during World War One, the most revered of the 1920s Bentley Boys were all World War One veterans such as John Duff, Bernard Rubin, Woolf Barnato, Sammy Davis and Glen Kidston. World War One American flying ace Eddie Rickenbacker was an Indianapolis 500 racing driver. Muriel Thompson, Military Medal, who became a World War One ambulance driver, was not only a chauffeur for suffragette Emeline Pankhurst, but raced at Brooklands before the war. Commentator Murray Walker was a World War Two tank commander, fellow commentator Raymond Baxter was a Spitfire pilot who was mentioned in dispatches for bravery. Carroll Shelby was a United States Army Airforce pilot and instructor with a reputation for great leadership. His friend, engineer and racing driver Ken Miles, served throughout the war as a specialist in tank recovery, landing as part of the D-Day operations. These are just a few of the most notable names from a group of men and women who risked all in conflict, before risking all on the track profiled in this book.
A year out of high school in the early 1950s, New Jersey mechanic Buddy Palumbo falls in love with two things at once: race car driving with its speed and adventure, and his boss' niece, Miss Julie Finzio
Outside Groove digs deep into the culture of oval-track racing by telling the stories of the undercurrent driving the sport. Renew your faith in racing's future by reading about young drivers working hard to make a name for themselves. Heed advice from seasoned sages who often learned those lessons the hard way. Root for fan favorites as they overcome adversity. Learn more about "racers" who do things other than turn a steering wheel. Gain perspective on hot-button topics such as parts shortages, disqualifications, and world issues affecting the sport. Travel to new places, both in time and locale, as you turn each page. Editors J.A. Ackley and Mike Adaskaveg compiled these incredible accounts of enthralling prose and captivating photography into one riveting read.
Charlotte and the Carolina Piedmont has an extensive and legendary tradition of automobile racing. Soon after 1904, when the first car was registered in Charlotte, autos became a part of everyday life. Car racing was just around the bend: an open-road race was run through Charlotte as early as 1908. Many drivers themselves have hailed from the area, and some are said to have received early training by running moonshine and outrunning authorities. Probably the best-known aspect of Carolina racing is the Queen City's involvement since 1949 with NASCAR, which hosts many of its big names and operations. Auto Racing in Charlotte and the Carolina Piedmont explores the story behind the various forms of the sport, the kinds of people who have raced, and the reasons why they have done so. Historic photographs-many never before published-trace the history of NASCAR and look beyond the professional aspect to include the dragracers, wannabees, kids, and just plain amateurs participating in this cultural phenomenon. The story includes the first formal oval track, constructed entirely of wooden planks and opened in 1925. Other famous Charlotte locations, including professional dirt tracks, drag strips, and even a paved track dedicated to Soap Box Derby, are also revisited. Images of fans, mechanics, and hangers-on round out this singular journey of racing in the Carolinas.