Hello, Living in So Cal does wonders for hot rods and drag racing memories. In thinking back to the big invasion of the Midwest and Eastern drag racers in 1959 opened our eyes as to similar cars on the Westcoast over the years. Then a super close up in 1960 allowed us to get close and personal… two brothers in the pits...1960 Bakersfield Smokers March Meet Pits The Orange Speed Sport Modified Roadster was ‘The” exemplary model for other similar builds. They were competitive not only in the Modified Roadster class, but ran against the top FED race cars in the Top Eliminator events. old Friday Art First rear engine Roadster to race against FED race cars Fisher-Greth-Maynard Speed Sport Special. I was able to get close to the starting line to see the modified roadster make its historic west coast run(s) in 1959. It was one of the most chilling events. The sound of the exhaust pipes with the 671 on top was very loud and distinct. But, upon accelerating at the starting line, it was ear covering full power… loud but, music to my ears… So, for the later runs, I wandered down the unusual Riverside Raceway grounds to the tall cliffs adjacent to the mid-dragstrip location. Now, along with hundreds of other drag race enthusiasts, we watched the distant start line and listened as the red/orange roadster blasted away and came at us extremely fast. The sound of the powerful roadster was now coming at us at a high rate of speed, but when it approached, the sound was amplified by the tallish cliffs as it whipped by our location. It was music to our ears… yes! Speed Sport Roadster total clip: Jnaki Being from Arizona, the Speed Sport Roadster folks are well known back then and in the current state of affairs. YRMV
The Jalopy Journal
