Art & Inspiration Traditional images that need no explanation.

THEN
Hello,

Up close and personal gives one a bird’s eye view of, “What it feels like to be like Willie Borsch…”

When I was wandering around the custom prep area of the original, Lion’s Dragstrip Museum Grand Opening, I stumbled upon several “eye popping” developments. One was the famous dark maroon Modified Roadster/Altered of the Borsch-Marcellus fame.

The Borsch Roadster getting ready for a show.

The Winged Express in tire blazing action...

The build in 1960 onward was assisted by Howard Johansen (of Howard's Cams), Don Reynolds, Phil Johnson, Dale Young, and Jerry Hyatt. The car's 392 hemi was built by Jim Harrell (of Jim's Auto Parts).

Jnaki

It was fun to see what Willie Borsch sees prior to rolling up to the starting line. But, in this case, the drive shaft was missing. I found out that due to regulations for displaying drive-able, but static, drag racing race cars, the drive shaft removal prevents accidental movement of any kind, due to unforeseen circumstances.
The Borsch Roadster at rest, hanging out with friends…at the Lions Dragstrip Museum.

NOW

Jnaki

Where can you see the Winged Express up close and personal? It is at the Lion’s Dragstrip Museum display area, in all of its former glory, without the smoke. In its glory days, even with the later version of the enclosed overhead walkway structure in place.

Being able to walk around the whole complex was very enjoyable as there were no people other than the director and friends setting up various displays and materials for the show. It was strange and eerie at the same time. At times, it was looking at the prepping stage. Other times while walking, one could hear the roar of the motors starting up and running. Although no motors were being fired up. Memories play great tricks on the mind.

The famous “Winged Express” WITHOUT the wing and a sight line in front from the seat.


Thanks, Rob...
Haven’t we all wondered what is it like under that famous “Winged Express” giant aluminum airfoil? Wonder what it looks like to see the ”Borsch-eye” view of the surroundings? Prior to the final display installation and removal of the driveshaft, this is what it looked like for me.

"Pssst...Hey... lets put the driveshaft back in and squirt some fuel in the injectors. We can leave some burnout tracks without anyone suspicious during the lunch break. Everyone will all be gone to lunch and no one will be the wiser...!!! HA"
Realism, but far fetched...although those Altered/Modified Roadsters can be run in any place, once they are set up again... "If only..."