The 1970s was a golden era for drag racing, a time when legends were made on the quarter-mile strip. This period saw the rise of several icons who left an indelible mark on the sport, driving some of the greatest muscle cars of all time. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit these legends.
“Big Daddy” Don Garlits: A Pioneer in Drag Racing
Don Garlits, fondly known as “Big Daddy”, is considered a pioneer in the sport. He introduced major technological advancements in drag racing, including the rear-engine dragster. Garlits won 17 World Championship titles and recorded an impressive 144 national event wins. His ingenuity and competitive spirit made him an iconic figure in the 1970s drag racing scene.
Shirley “Cha Cha” Muldowney: The First Lady of Drag Racing
Shirley Muldowney, also known as “Cha Cha”, was the first woman to receive a license from the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) to drive a Top Fuel dragster. She won the NHRA Top Fuel championship in 1977, 1980, and 1982, breaking boundaries and setting records. Muldowney’s remarkable career is a testament to her determination and resilience, inspiring generations of female racers.
Don “The Snake” Prudhomme: A Quarter-Mile Legend
Don Prudhomme, nicknamed “The Snake”, is another standout figure in drag racing. His rivalry with Tom McEwen, “The Mongoose”, was one of the most legendary in the sport. Prudhomme won four consecutive Funny Car titles from 1975 to 1978, and his record of wins in the quarter-mile drag race in the 1970s remains impressive even today.
“TV” Tommy Ivo: Hollywood’s Speed King
Tommy Ivo, known as “TV” Tommy for his acting career, was a crowd favorite on the dragstrip. He was the first to break the six-second barrier in a gas-powered dragster. Ivo was also known for his showmanship, often performing wild burnouts and thrilling wheelstands, making every race an unforgettable spectacle.
“Jungle Jim” Liberman: A Showman on the Dragstrip
“Jungle Jim” Liberman was another charismatic figure in the 1970s drag racing scene. Known for his flamboyant style and theatrical antics, Jungle Jim was a crowd-pleaser. His energetic personality and raw driving talent made him one of the most unforgettable characters of the sport.
These icons have left a lasting impact on drag racing, with their contributions and innovations shaping the sport as we know it today. Their stories continue to inspire and entertain, reminding us of a time when the roar of a V8 engine and the smell of burning rubber were the highlights of a weekend.
For more in-depth information on these drag racing icons, this book provides an engaging and detailed account of their lives and careers.