Hello, When the first edition of the aluminum bodied Sidewinder came on the scene created by Paul Nicolini, it was an odd ball dragster. At the time, there were some rear engine race cars, but not to the extent of a streamlined body and a sideways motor. Sidewinder and Ford Truck in the Lion’s Dragstrip Pits When it was given to Joe Mailliard to upgrade, fix the problems and get it running well, it was a different ball game when it hit the pits and dragstrip. The Green Ford pickup truck was getting noticed almost as much as the Silver, aluminum, sleek dragster. It was a good thing that we all got to see the preview of each racer as the fire up procedure was to be pushed in front of the tower and spectators stands. When the dragster or any race car fired up, then they headed for the starting line staging area. It was a show before the show. In taking plenty of movies of the Sidewinder during the time we saw them in the pits and racing, here is the compilation of action coordinated with the "Original Sound" of the Sidewinder, just a month after the films. But, not at Lion’s Dragstrip. It was recorded on an LP album at the Detroit U.S. Nationals in September 1959. Jnaki The editing of the film clips and coordinating the sound was done after all of the old 16mm color films were digitized in our film collection. We bought the LP in December of 1959 and still sits in the album space of a living room bookshelf. Sidewinder Original Sound
The Loukas & Preising Competition Coupe with Karamesines at the wheel. Chris and Don Maynard built it at their Engine Specialists shop on Chicago’s south side. Somewhere along the line it lost it’s Red Greth fashioned Speed Sport scoop .
Willys running against the B/A may be "Mystery Willys" definitely at Dover. 40 Ford coupe racing 5 W coupe could be Flemington in NJ. Pat
Hey P, Thank you for the wonderful comments. I did not know I had those films until I had them digitized. Then by being able to go back and forth, I could see those memories flash back to being a teenager with a movie camera. It was a great time, but without information, the past is just the past. Actual information from those experiences make it more real for everyone. As the short movie clips flashed on the computer. I could see and remember those times. As far as the information, sometimes the names have gotten lost and other times, I have done a thorough search to find the names and owners. It is fun as it brings back old memories. These days, any recollection is a plus to keep those brain cells active and happy. My photos from later in our photography business times, added to the search and background. I normally do not post something unless I have a good bunch of information from old drag racers and a thorough research sites. Jnaki It does make me want to re-do some of the photos posted as they are copied directly and posted. But, as old photos go, it is pleasing to the eye to get it sharp and clear. So, the feeling of being right in the action back then in history, is exemplified by good photos. I recently told my son, "Without history, there is no future." He thought that was an excellent way to look at family history and the times we went through growing up in a different timeline. I have no idea where I got that statement, but in looking at my short stories and photos, I can see it building to what we all like to see from the past. Hopefully, it has started a future for others. YRMV
The Jalopy Journal
