saltracer2

Began to be involved in auto racing, starting at Santa Ana Drags in 1955. Joined the Roadrunners of Whittier CA in 1956 and began to run at El Mirage. I made my first trip to Bonneville in 1957 and returned as a competitor in 1958 with a 300 cu in Desoto powered 1948 Ford Coupe. Came back in 1959 with a 1930 Roadster and ran thru 1963 with the Desoto. Built a '29 roadster powered with a 302 cu injected Chevrolet in 1964, and set the Bonneville D/GR at 176.774 mph. Continued running the '29 thru 1982 with a top speed of 199.137 mph. Acquired and began running the Pierson Coupe in 1980. Ran the car thru the 1991 season setting fuel record at 217.236 mph, and raised the record to 221.898 mph 10/1990 and entered the Bonneville 200 MPH Club. In 1991 set the gas record at 206.409 mph. Reached the top speed for the car, 224.679 mph in D/FCC and exited the course at 227 mph. In January 1992, I delivered the car to Bob Bowder in Big Bear CA who was to restore the car for Bruce Meyer, the new owner. Actually Pete Chapouris headed up the restoration team.

A new chapter of my racing career started with the building of a new car which is basically a clone of the Pierson Coupe with streamlining. 156 in wheel base and tucked in rear wheels. It was a great car that set seventeen records from 1999 thru 2004. During that time six family members ( 3 sons, my brother, my grandson and a nephew) joined me in the Bonneville 200 MPH Club. Mary West also earned her "A" license in the car at 3212 mph. This was a great 18 years, but it ended too soon with a crash that took my youngest son and the car. Barry is missed by many friends and family...it helps to know that he was doing what he loved most...sitting in the seat of #216.