Something went wrong here

[Tennessee Racing]

I admit I don't watch drag racing. However even I know this isn't part if it. Photoshop?

 

[be9ak7ts16]

No photoshop there. Don't remember the year or the exact circumstances but Garlits lost half of a foot when the clutch disc blew out and cut the frame rails. While he was recuperating he drew up the plans for the rear engine dragster. I had that centerfold from Hot Rod magazine hanging on my wall when I was a wee lad.

 

[be9ak7ts16]

Horrific drag racing accident involving "Big Daddy" Don Garlits at Lions Drag Strip (March 8, 1970) is graphically depicted in this segment from Part 3 of the historical documentary (DVD) "Lions - The Greatest Drag Strip". Incredible footage shows the legendary top fuel driver's "Swamp Rat 13" explode its transmission just off the starting line during the final round. As a result, Garlits lost part of his right foot, plus a spectator was also injured. While recuperating in nearby Pacific Hospital (Long Beach, Calif.) Garlits conceived of a machine which placed the driver ahead of the engine, and the rest was history.

 

[be9ak7ts16]

http://articles.latimes.com/2011/feb/23/sports/la-sp-nhra-don-garlits-20110224

 

[be9ak7ts16]

Garlits rear engine debut.

 

[be9ak7ts16]

Here's another famous clutch explosion from 1970.

 

[be9ak7ts16]

Sheesh, I look like a Post Strumpet here.

 

[be9ak7ts16]

Then there was this little pirouette.

 

[TexasRaceLady]

Good stuff, be9.

 

[be9ak7ts16]

I admit I don't watch drag racing. However even I know this isn't part if it. Photoshop? View attachment 15692

Got to thinking about this. Not only was this Parf of drag racing it was a defining moment which changed the sport.