Two very different Pace Cars at Martin Auto Museum

The 1963 Chrysler Pace Setter on display in Arizona. (The Tomaso Collection)

 

Remember Pontiac’s jingle about Winder’s Better, Y’all?

 

Like the Martin Auto Museum, who’s vast collection quickly outgrew it’s original building. With proprietor Mel Martin buying up an entire city block!

 

There’s just so Mucho to talk about that my story quickly outgrew its original footprint, which is quite typical here at No Fenders. So Y’all guessed it, I cranked out another story, Toh-Duh!

 

Somewhere past the one plus hour mark, my most excellent Docent Jeff steered me past two Pace Cars sitting side-by-side. The first peaking my Attention, being the 1963 Indianapolis 500 Chrysler 300, the year that ‘Ol Rufus Parnelli Jones became the first to qualify at 150mph.

 

As the feat was celebrated by awarding Parnelli 150 silver dollars, before Jones won the race in ‘Ol Calhoun. J.C. Agajanian’s Watson Roadster.

 

A 1963 Chrysler 300 convertible Pace Car was driven in the 47th Indianapolis 500 by 1957 Indy 500 winner Sam Hanks, with IMS owner Tony Hulman riding Shotgun. The last Pace car awarded to the team owner.

 

Thanks to Rick DeBruhl, who’s detailed many of these vehicles with His Auto Evolution series, I learned that said Chrysler 300 was a Pacesetter edition. With 1,861 convertibles being sold as celebratory models to commemorate Chrysler pacing that year’s Indianapolis 500.

 

VIDEO: 1963 Chrysler 300 Pacesetter

 

Alongside this Chrysler 300 Pacesetter sat perhaps a Pontiac? Something that paced a NASCAR race, possibly the Day-Toner’ 500? But don’t remember what race it was from.

 

A follow-up phone call with Martin Auto Museum docent Gene revealed that it was indeed a celebratory 1988 Pontiac Pace car.

 

After a little more sluicing, err sleuthing. From the Museo’s website I learned it was a 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix SE Pace Car edition of that year’s Daytona 500 Pace Car. When Bobby Allison won ahead of Davey, with the father-son duo finishing 1-2.

 

Although the sixth generation Pontiac Grand Prix won Motor Trend’s 1988 Car of the Year award, the actual Daytona 500 Pace Car was heavily modified. Since the Grand Prix came stock with an anemic 2.8-litre transverse mounted V-6 lump’ rated at 140Bhp, be still my beating Heart!

 

Rick DeBruhl completely describes this W Body front wheel drive sedan in the video below.

 

VIDEO: The Sleekest car of 1988 - The Pontiac Grand Prix

 

Photo C/O No Fenders Blogmeister’ Miguel. 

More Martin Auto Museum visit recollections

A very Happy Tomaso seated in a Ferrari 360 Modena Spyder Ferrari! (The Tomaso Collection)

 

Move over Mustang Sally’, that Ferrari Spyder definitely “Slowed Me Down!”

 

Otay, I’ve tried to scribble this down before it became completely forgotten! Warranting another trip to the wonderful Martin Auto Museum. Hence my placement of vehicles is becoming hazy after my February visit…

 

At one point, my most excellent Docent Jeff asked me if I knew about Transformers? Which I slightly do, since my debutante Indianapolis 500 in 2009 featured  one of that year’s Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen movie stars.

 

Funny how I can still vividly recall Crash Gladys of Speed Freaks fame interviewing whomever it was against the window of the IMS third floor Press Room’s windows. Before rediscovering it was Josh Duhamel, who was that year’s Indy 500 Pace Car driver.

 

Transformers Star Josh Duhamel looking for Speed at Indianapolis

 

As the Transformer Bumblebee stood along one side of the building. While Jeff told me we were standing in front of a Transformer Edition Camaro. Which I had no idea how rare these were. As less than 2,000 2010 Camaro’s in Rally Yellow were ordered with the $995 appearance package, available only that year. For either LT or SS models

 

Not sure what we walked past next? But I do know we made our way to the Ford Mustangs, which I’m guessing there must have been two 1968 and 1 /2 models? Since thought we stood and “Gawked” at a black 428CJ (Cobra Jet) model with four speed top loader manual transmission? With Blogmeister’ Miguel telling me there was a white version also. Along with two 1966 289cid V-8 cars on display. One being a convertible I believe, and the other a coupe.

 

Actually, thanks to Martin Auto Museum Docent Gene, I learned it was a white 1968 1 /2 Mustang with that ubiquitous 428cid V-8 cobra Jet engine. While the “Black Beauty” was a 1995 Shelby Mustang Hardtop convertible. With only 499 models being produced.

 

Sauntered past a nice 1957 Chevrolet Bel air, before Jeff asked me if I knew the difference between a Chevy station wagon and Nomad? Telling me that the Nomad has vertical trim “stripes” pieces on the rear door.

 

Stopped briefly in front of my favourite Camaro, i.e.; 1967-69 Z/28. As it had the requisite twin hood stripes, but don’t remember what year it was? Before Jeff explained how you could tell the differences between the three model years…

 

At one point we stood and “Gawked” at the 1930 Duesenberg “J” model Boattail “Speedster” which Jeff said had more chrome than paint! Being Fire engine red, and having been owned by a Gangstah’.

 

Arguably being one of the three most valuable, nee “expensive” cars in the collection. Along with the aforementioned 1965 Cobra 427 continuation car, and the 1948 Tucker.

 

There was a 1973 De Tomaso Pantera sitting alone. Along with a Pontiac GTO, whose doors were locked, when Jeff asked me if I wanted to sit in it?

 

So He took me to the car alongside it, a 1964 ford Thunderbird convertible, which I happily sat in.

 

A Pontiac something-ruther’ with the “revered” W30 package was nearby. Arse-sumedly the very same Pontiac GTO alongside that T-Bird…

 

As history denotes, the GTO was the brainchild of John Delorean.

 

Of course the museum had a Delorean DMC-12 on display, albeit with its gullwing doors closed, but Jeff had me run my hand over the brushed aluminum bodywork. While I’ll let Rick DeBruhl do the heavy lifting…

 

VIDEO; Why Can’t this Delorean go 88 miles per hour

 

There were also a trio of the sedans similar to what Marty McFly drove in the Back to The Future movies I believe, but no flux capacitors on that Delorean DMC-12…

 

There were a few Corvettes parked together. As Jeff described the 1963 split window we stood in front of. Before having me run my hand over the rear window’s “spine”. But guess I threw Jeff for a loop when I said I acutally thought the 1965 Sting Ray was better looking! Which He promptly walked round trying to see if they had one? Only finding a ’67 Sting Ray, along with a 2020 Corvette.

 

While I haven’t even mentioned Jeff asking me if I wanted to sit in a Ferrari, Uh duh!

 

As suddenly I found myself getting low to the ground to climb into a 2001 rosso Ferrari 360 Spyder with black top. Tapping my head upon the convertible’s roof fabric when clambering aboard! As it took me a little while to deduce that indeed, it was equipped with paddle shifters, which I finally found upon the steering wheel…

 

Jeff asked me if I wanted to ride the Merry-go-Round? Which I eagerly said yes! Before ultimately settling on riding the Zebra, with our entourage doing three leisurely circuits, going up and down before we said we’d had enough and Jeff turned off the vintage Merry-go-Round, circa 1950’s.

 

There was a 1929 Ford converted into a Popcorn and Peanuts vehicle, which roasted the peanuts and popped popcorn. Along with a Dump truck from the Mayer mines, being from 1917. As Jeff had me put my hand on what was left of the solid rubber tyres.

 

VIDEO: Omaha’s Douglas 1917 Dump truck History

 

Alongside sat a vintage tow truck, also from Mayer, which is where the Museo’s proprietor Mel Martin, now 95 years old got His start.

 

Then nearly three hours later, Jeff had to go to His next scheduled appointment. As it was a real treat having Jeff personally escort me thru the entire museum! As Jeff gave me the right amount of “verbiage” for the many, countless vehicles He stopped and described and had me run my hands over various portions of; with Jeff’s permission to do so.

 

As it’s a living, breathing Automobile museum, for which you’re allowed to get into many of the cars, provided their doors are unlocked. But as Always, please treat the vehicles with respect.

 

Photo C/O No Fenders Blogmeister’ Miguel. 

Diving into Crime 101’s Vehicles list

Hmm, was the Toyota Prius the get-away car?

 

Following “seeing” Crime 101 on the Big-screen, naturally I was curious what type of automobile Mike Davis (Chris Hemsworth) was driving? Since all I knew was it was a green Sports Car, Arse-suming it was a “Cherry” 1968 Ford Mustang, after that Steve McQueen banter…

 

VIDEO: Crime 101 Steve McQueen Clip

 

After all, the iconic 11 minutes chase scene in Bullitt features a Narly’ 1968 Highland Green Mustang fastback with a 390cid V-8 jumping those streets of San Francisco!

 

The Ford Mustang GT in the movie Bullitt that Steve McQueen drove

 

Initially the All knowing Intrawoods’ claimed there were five “prominent” cars used. A Cadillac CT5-V, Dodge Challenger, Chrysler 300, Dodge charger and Chevrolet Camaro.

 

Took me awhile to discern those five automobiles years, especially since the Chrysler 300 completely threw me! Since I immediately thought of  the classic 1960’s 300. Having just “seen” the 1963 Indianapolis 500 convertible Pacesetter vehicle in Arizona.

 

Thus, I was quite surprised learning that Chrysler had carried on this nameplate into the new Millenium. Learning that the first generation “letter” series Chrysler 300 debuted Wayback’ in 1955. With that 1963 convertible being a third generation model, with these letter series cars running thru 1970. And the 300 nameplate running all the way until 2023.

 

Whilst I know nothing about the Caddy’, with the Challenger and Charger having been out of production. Although think Chrysler’s trying to resurrect both of those nameplates? And the “Hero” car Ain’t no Freakin’ Sports Car Y’all!

 

·         2015 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300

·         2022 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing

·         1968 Chevrolet Camaro RS

 

Obviously, I do not intend to go through the entire list of vehicles used in the movie, which ranges from cars, including hybrids and EV’s. to pickup trucks and SUV’s, along with a bunch ‘O sedans thrown-in. Not to mention a bus and a Hummer H3.

 

There’s only one unknown model motorcycle mentioned being a KTM. As the Scooter’ Barry Keoghan rides sounded like a “Thumper” to Mwah. Although guessing its some sort of dual purpose motorcycle? Presumably of four-stroke design.

 

Labouriously going thru the list of vehicles provided by IMCDB, the following makes were used in the film.

 

Audi, Bentley, BMW, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Genesis, GMC, Honda, Hummer, Hyundai, Infiniti, Jaguar, Kia, KTM, Lexus, Mazda, Mercedes Benz, NABI, Nissan, Porsche, Tesla, Toyota, Volkswagen and Volvo.

 

Learning that the NABI was a 2008 low floor bus LSW model produced by North American Bus Industries. Available in 30, 35, 40 and 60 foot versions.

 

And while I’ve heard of the Audi A4, hadn’t heard of the A3 Sportback e-tron, a plug-in hybrid Audi debuted in 2014.

 

Several Toyota Prius models were used, along with two Tesla’s a Model 3 and Model S. Plus a Hyundai Ioniq Electric in the mix.

 

Two BMW 3 series “Sedans” are listed, along with the following Mercedes-Benz models. A 2020 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 coupe, EQS 580, CLA

C Klasse and E-Klasse.

 

Our short-list of Muscle Cars includes the previously mentioned Dodge Challenger and Charger, plus that elusive Camaro. With a 1994 ford Mustang being listed.

 

With a lone 2023 Nissan Z Sports Car also of interest to Mwah…

 

IMCDB: Crime 101 Vehicles list

 

Yet it’s the 1968 dark green Chevrolet Camaro that’s the star of the movie, noted as being an “RS” variant.

 

According to Wikipedia, for 1968, there were 159,087 base models produced. 40,977 RS, 27,884 SS and 7,199 Z/28’s built. For a total production volume of 235,147 units.

 

As the first generation Camaro’s of 1967-69 are my favourite, with the Z/28 being the “Holy Grail” of Camaro’s! With a 1967 Camaro RS/SS 396 V-8 convertible being that year’s Indianapolis 500 Pace car, with 100 replicas also produced.

 

Being a FoMoCo’ (Ford Motor Company) devotee, naturally the Camaro is the “Enemy!” And thus, I didn’t know that these RS (Rally Sport) variants featured hidden headlight bucket that retracted behind the front grille. Along with other distinguishing features, i.e.; trim, rear tail lights, etc.

 

Reportedly four V-8 engines were available for the 1968 RS; 327 and 350 small blocks. And 396 and 427 big blocks, albeit the 427cid V-8 was an aluminum engine, so I’m wondering if it was really available for the “Mid-level” RS?

 

While a Chevrolet 307cid V-8 wasn’t available until 1969. And the 302cid V-8 was only available in the Z/28. Being produced for Homolgation to compete in the SCCA Trans Am Championship. Where Mark Donohue and Roger Penske made those Nasty Sunoco blue Zed-28’s World Beaters!

 

Suppose its worth noting you could combine the RS and SS (Super Sport) packages together to create an RS/SS model. Which the RS badging was predominant upon…

 

Yet without any definitive information easily available on this specific 1968 dark green Camaro RS, which presumably had a four-speed manual transmission? Its hard knowing the exact configuration of this “Anti-McQueen” Muscle Car… 

The Only thing missing at Indy Cars Laguna Seca finale was the Zamboni!

While the proverbial “Penalty box” was overflowing with Drivers…

 

Yeah, I know I’m late to thee party as always! As I was gonna try working the words All Skate into my title, but those words made me think of Zamboni’s instead! Along with flashing back to a very old Brian Regan comedic skit! As I still find it Uber’ Hilarious, with Brian painstakingly recalling His time as Alex the Strohs Beer Canine’s campaign manager.

 

As this twelve minute, No will Power Two minutes Penalty Box for Avoidable Contact Jokes Here! Comedy Central skit seems apropos for what we just witnessed at Laguna seca!

 

With Brian retelling His experience at His first ever NHL Hockey game in Minny HaHa’, aka Minneapolis. And the Fans going wild during intermission at a North Stars vs. Chicago Blackhawks game. Having just seen a Hockey fight followed by Alex the dog riding around the arena on the Zamboni! Which is pretty much what we witnessed at Laguna Seca…

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=metSo5FcbfI

 

Whilst the Racer magazine Headline I enjoyed the most was about how ScottyMac’, aka Scott McLaughlin claimed He’d Hit everything but the Pace Car enroute to second place!

 

While IndyCar Radio Network’s Driver Analyst Davey Hamilton sardonically proclaimed that almost everybody had Hit somebody on the opening lap!

 

And speaking ‘O Pace Cars, when’s the last time you witnessed the Pace Car running out of Fuel! Which is exactly what happened during Laguna Seca’s All skate, Say What?

 

As thought I “read”, Err heard somewheres’ that the Pace Car had spent 70 Freakin’ minutes on-track, Aye Karumba!

 

Actually read afterwards via ESPN Online Motorsports Headlines that the Honda Pace Car in question had spent more than 70 minutes pacing the field! But still, that Pace Car must have a really small fuel tank, since I thought Honda’s were notorious for getting good gas mileage…

 

IndyCar Radio lead announcer Mark Gravelly’ James noted that while we’d tied the record for most cautions during a race at Laguna Seca. (8) IndyCar broke the record for most laps behind a Pace Car which was previously 32-laps, before Sunday’s race spent an agonizing 35-laps behind the mostly present Honda Pace Car…

 

James also joked during Saturday’s Qualie’ session over how the only corner that hadn’t seen any action was Turn-12. Due to Thar only being 11 turns on the famed Monterey racing circuit.

 

Whilst even Turn-9 reporter Jake The Riddler’ Query got in on the action when wryly noting how perhaps the field could complete at least one Green Flag lap?

 

As Y’all knew it was going to be constant mayhem after five cars crashed into each other at Turn-2 on the opening lap! With the word I kept using being Slugfest! As the race just became one constant, annoyingly Disjointed event, seeing me rootin’ for several different drivers to win! Just anybody beside the Ganassi duo of Alex Palou and Scott Dixon! While thankfully Josef Newgarden, who I’ve anointed the new nickname of Slick effectively took Himself out of the race during that lap-1 melee…

 

As it was just a constant start-stop-start; Err, rinse, lather, repeat veritable Spin cycle of Yellows breeding yellows on thefreshly repaved racetrack! With the racing groove becoming super “Sticky” and netting lap times an astounding five seconds faster!

 

But anywhere off the racing line was akin to driving on ice, with drivers noting it was smooth as glass…

 

But don’t get me wrong, as I did find it a very entertaining race, with All of the nonstop action! Although you’d have expected better driving from these professionals, with great pains being taken to note Thar the Best Drivers…

 

Thus I found myself going from rooting for Felix-the Cat’ (Rosenqvist) to Christian Lundgaard, Pato O’Ward and Romain Grosjean. While rookie Augustin Canapino had the audacity of Harrying O’Ward for second place at one point during the race! Before the Argentinian was forced to limp home P14 with a broken front wing.

 

And as only thee “Iceman 2.0” can do. Scott Dixon having taken a six grid place penalty for changing engines Sunday morning. Along with a very questionable Drive-thru penalty for Avoidable Contact with Rinus VeeKay on the opening lap, with Dixon reportedly dropping a few F-Bombs before mentioning Arie, Arie! In deference to Arie Luyendyk’s perceived favour towards the Netherlands driver…

 

Yet with the aid of master strategist Mike Hull changing their race plan and the abundance of Yellow Flags. Dixon Found Himself leading the race for the last twenty laps enroute to His third win in four races! And His 56th career IndyCar victory, second All-time behind only A.J. foyt’s 67!

 

As I was so baffled over ow they’d done it again, that I couldn’t even remember who the other podium finishers were? With Mclauglin second and Palou third…

 

While will Power, who along with McLaughlin was one of the multiple drivers given penalties for Avoidable Contact rallied to finish fourth.

 

As when’s the last time that two Team Penske drivers were Hit with Avoidable Contact penalties in the same race?

 

Whilst Juncos Hollinger Racing’s Callum Ilott tied His career best IndyCar finish with another fifth place result. And absolutely does Not deserve the Dispicable, Disgusting treatment Argentinian Fans continue giving Him on Social Medea!

 

But Hey, like some have said in Ye Blogosphere. What a way to finish the season, and what a way to go into IndyCar’s ridiculous six months sleep inducing Offseason! 

Another Enjoyable Visit to My Favourite Scottsdale Haunt

    

As how can you go wrong when you’re surrounded by a veritable Treasure Trove of vintage Indianapolis 500 winners!

 

Returning to The Valley of The Sun for the first time in nearly three years last October, naturally another visit to the Penske Racing Museum (PRM) was warranted. As here’s what I scribbled’ following my 2019 visit.

 

http://www.nofenders.net/2020/01/retro-doin-thee-indycar-time-warp.html

 

Thus obviously, I was very Happy when Snowbyrd MJ’ asked me if I wanted to go visit the Penske Racing Museum, to which I playfully replied, Uh Duh! Where Blogmeister’ Miguel joined us for our afternoon visit.

 

The Penske Racing Museum is nestled inside the multiple Auto Dealerships of the Penske Auto Group’s Scottsdale campus, with a total of 13 Brands. Which includes the likes of Bentley, BMW, Bugatti, Lamborghini, Land rover, Jaguar and Porsche. Not to mention the insane Off Road Land Rover test course behind the museum! Along with a luxury “Used Car” Dealership that always has a smattering of Ferrari’s to Drool over…

 

While best of All, Admission is Free, Bravo! Since I can still recall when I used to pay only three Smackeroos’ ($3) for Penske’s other museum at some place on 16^th and Georgetown. Which now will se Yuhs back $15.00, but I digress…

 

And like many stories Here upon Ye Isle ‘O Nofendersville that get stranded in the Driftwood. I’m afraid I’ve forgotten some of the details from this now fading, but enjoyable visit, but will try to recollect my best…

 

Feel like Yuhs can never go wrong by having one of my all-time favourite Penske Racing Indy Cars on “Point,” aka the museum’s entrance. As it’s the ultra Sweet 1972 Deep Blue Mark Donohue #66 Sunoco McLaren M16B/Offenhauser Indianapolis 500 winner, which I’ve seen many times before thankfully! Since have I reminded Y’all I’m blind lately?

 

Hmm? While who’ll be running that fabled Number 66 this May for His Last, lat, last, may be? Indianapolis 500 race, Eh?

 

And I’m fairly certain that that year’s Indianapolis 500 Pace Car was also on display. This being the ultra rare 1972 Hurst/Olds Oldsmobile Cutlass Convertible in Cameo white with Gold reflective stripes. For which reportedly only 130 Convertibles were built from the Uber low production of 629 total Hurst/Olds that year!

 

Whilst my current favourite Indy 500 Pace Car was on display as usual. Which is Funny since I always remember Will Power saying it’s His wife Liz’s car! This being the Dark Blue 2018 Corvette ZR1, which I think is currently the latest ZR1 Vette’ available?

 

Most of the racecars on display were the same, i.e.; multiple Indianapolis 500 winners, Penske’s Formula 1 chassis and “The Gasman,” ergo Tom sneva’s 200mph Indy 500 Qualifier. Along with the liberal sprinkling of IndyCar engines on stands, trophies, etc.

 

As I know there were various Chevrolet CART 2.65-litre V-8 turbocharger lumps to Gawk at. Along with the 1,000 Horsepower 1994 Mercedes “Stock block” V-8 engine to admire…

 

In what soon became a game of Stump Tomaso! With Miguel simply telling me a year and colour, or sponsor to see what your Old-ER’ Blogger could remember?

 

This litmus test included the 1985 “Spin ‘N Win” Indy 500 Danny Sullivan winner. Various “rocket Rick” Mears Indy 500 winners, i.e.; 1984 Pennzoil “Yellow submarine” and 1991 Marlboro liveries. Also think Big Al’s (Unser Sr.) 1987 yellow Hertz winner was there? And perhaps some other “Bad Habits” (Marlboro) Indy Cars? Since I tend to think may be Gil de Ferran’s 100^th IndyCar winner was On-hand…

 

Along with “the Gasman” Tom Sneva’s 1977 McLaren M24/Cosworth V-8 DFX. Which Sneva officially became the first person to exceed a lap of over 200mph at Mother Speedway in. Plus I recall Snowbyrd MJ’ marveling over the fact that one of the racecars was sponsored by first City travelers Checks! Which was the 1975 Mark Donohue Penske PC1 Formula 1 chassis.

 

And El Capitano’s, nee roger Penske’s NASCAR Riverside winning 1963 Catalina was on display as always, for which I’ve just read on the Penske Racing Museum website is a replica. While there was one really weird, tiny Ferrari replicar on display. For which the friendly receptionist told us was being held there until it could be safely delivered to it’s client…

 

There were also a few Roundy round Taxicab Bombers on display, for which I cannot remember what the first one was? Although I think it was a Curt Busch car.

 

And then I correctly guessed Joey Lagano’s #22 Pennzoil racecar, which I think could have been His 2018 NASCAR Championship car? Since I know we later marveled over how massive and impressive the Harvey J. Earle NASCAR Champions trophy was!

 

As very impressive how Penske won last year’s IndyCar and NASCAR Championships in the same season for the first time ever.

 

And perhaps it was just some Good ‘Ol Karma of having one of “Sliced Bread’s” Taxicab Bombers on display. Since Joey Lagano would go onto claim His second NASCAR Championship that November appropriately at Phoenix International Raceway!

 

While there’s a stairway leading up to the second floor, which primarily holds various scale IndyCar Wind tunnel models in their complete liveries, matching the real winning Indy 500 racecars below. Along with a gift Shop and Café, for which both were Closed, due to Staffing Shortage. Whilst I’ve got Zero Clue if the Gift Shop merchandise can be ordered Online?

 

Whilst Yuhs might also enjoy reading the first part of this meandering No Fenders tome. Where I regaled Y’all  about the three “new’ racing cars spotted during Thy museum visit in the following No Fenders story below.

 

http://www.nofenders.net/2023/03/a-few-new-racecars-on-display-at-penske.html

Photo C/O Blogmeister’ Miguel

Arizona Bureau Chief Snowbyrd MJ’ and Tomaso pose during the start of our Penske Racing Museum visit. (The Tomaso Collection) 

Rookie Kerfuffle lingers while IndyCar Says Goodbye to Belle Isle

As I’m gonna Miss racing on that Rock…

 

For Thyself, as A Blind Word Butcher’, I now totally prefer listening to the IndyCar Radio Network’s “Call” of the races vs. Nothing But Commercials, err NBC! Thus I found this past weekend’s Internets Broadcast far More enjoyable than the Indy 500 TV Broadcast, which I really feel like I Don’t need to “Watch,” Err listen to anymore, which really makes me wonder why I’m still willing to pay such an exorbitant amount ‘O Dinero monthly for Cable TV, But I Digress…

 

Thus it was a perfect weekend as I got to listen to Qualifying live Saturday morning via IndyCar Radio where I took great delight in Nicky Salt’ Yeoman’s Uber Astute comment regarding IndyCar Rookie David Malukas Driving like Somebody Had Stolen a Trophy from Him! In regards to the laughable Ha ha, Not! Ludicrous awarding of the Indianapolis 500 Rookie Of the Year (ROY) to Jimmie Johnson.

 

As it would be extremely easy to Pile On to the overwhelming sentiments of Ye Blogosphere, and perhaps General feelings regarding this pathetic choice of Johnson over Malukas at Mother Speedway. Which just simply seems to be one more Nauseating Nod to that Taxicab bombers series…

As I really Don’t understand why IndyCar is doing Nothing to promote All of It’s Stars, as there’s so many story lines they could be using to promote All of the Great IndyCar Drivers!

 

Like I’ve said before, I admire Jimmie for what He’s doing, and He seems to be totally Humble and just trying to perfect his Open wheel Racecraft. But the Hype over Johnson just Didn’t warrant His winning the Indy 500 ROY, especially after putting Himself into the Wall Solo! Since at the very least, if my memory’s correct? Johnson and Malukas should have been Co-Rookies Of the Year a la Larry Rice and somebody named Rick Mears…

 

Thus it was even funnier when IndyCar Radio Network Pitlane Reporter Ryan Marin, who’s quickly vaulted to my Numero Uno favourite Pitlane Reporter, who far exceeds either NBC’s Snidely Whiplash or The Wherewolf’, aka Marty Snider  or Kevin Lee! (respectively) Repeated Nick Yeoman’s comment of Driving like Somebody Had Stolen His Trophy after Malukas had made His first ever Fast Six Shootout appearance, for which the 20yr Old Chicago Driver seemed very deferential in His response, before Marin finished the interview by saying that Malukas, who Qualified 6^th vs. another tepid Johnson 20-something result was Definitely the People’s Choice!

 

Alas, it’s very funny how much it took me by surprise hearing Mark Gravelly’ James pronounce this being the 30^th running of the Detroit Grand Prix on Belle Isle. For which I really shouldn’t have been so surprised, since I still vaguely recall watching that Uber Bad Arse Black ‘N gold John Player Special Lotus 98T of Ayrton Senna poundin’ round those Mean, err lumpy Streets of Downtown Detroit Wayback’ in Gory 1986! Not to mention when Scott Scooter’ Pruett was kicking Arse’ in those Narly Jack Roush Ford Mustang Trans Am “Pony Cars!”

 

 

But I suppose it’s just part of getting Old-ER’ that made me forget we’ve been going to Belle Isle for three decades. Although I did remember that I’d scribbled about the Beautiful Island some six years ago…

 

http://www.nofenders.net/2016/06/belle-isle-recollections.html

 

As it’s amazing how far the racetrack at Belle Isle’s progressed over the years, or is it that just the racing’s gotten that much better?

 

Since I can still recall sitting thru an overly long Red Flag period with such luminaries as ‘Ol r’, Ye Curmudgeon ‘O IndyCar’s robin Miller entertaining us as impromptu repairs were being made to the track’s surface. After James Hinchcliffe’s IndyCar’s front suspension had been wrecked after running over a Tar Ball Chunk ‘O Ashfault that had been torn out of the decaying track surface! With some Quick Dry Cement being applied, Aye Karumba!

 

Or how about when that Big GM, nee Chevy Mucky Muck promptly Stuffed the Corvette ZR1 Pace Car into the track’s Jersey Barrier, Whump!

 

http://www.nofenders.net/2018/06/yo-pace-car-driver-better-check-your.html

 

But I’d have to say that it’s mostly down to the brilliant Firestone alternate rubber compound’s rapid, intentional degrading that made Sunday’s race so enjoyable.

 

While I think it was Ryan Marin again interviewing David Malukas Sunday, asking Him if He’d been getting any advice from Coyne Ware Racing teammate Takuma Sato who qualified second how to drive Belle Isle? To which Malukas replied Yes, Taku’ said you’ve got to drive it like a Grandma!

 

Not to mention Michael Young’s comment of How He just couldn’t wrap His Head round how Windsor, Ontario Canada was to the South of Him from His Turn 7 vantage point…

 

Have to say I was totally rootin’ for Alexander rossi, who seemed to be on the perfect strategy for once to finally win a race after nearly three years of futility! Making it even funnier how I was rooting against one of my past favourite drivers DJWillyP’, aka Will Power, who surely His Alternate Red compound Firestones wouldn’t be able to go the distance of the final 20 laps vs. Rossi’s preferred Black primary compound Slicks. Yet it was pretty insane how Power had built up a monster 35 second lead before His final Pit Stop.

 

Thus Power won by a lone second from an unexpecting 16^th starting spot, with Rossi coming home second from 11^th, and Scott Dixon third after starting P9. Whilst that Malukas fellah finished 11th and ‘Ol JJ’, nee Jimmie Johnson Ho Hum, was P22.

 

Although another rookie I really felt for was Kyle Kirkwood, who I really appreciate His gritting out His injured Hand/Wrist after His Shunt during Saturday morning’s second Warm Up session. Which afterwards, He went off and won the IMSA GTD category for Vasser Sullivan Racing’s Lexus race team, and ran in the Top 5 of the IndyCar race for a long time before making a rookie mistake, which He quickly Blamed upon Himself and Not due to His injury, which I’m Not buying since He spent considerable time with an ice pack on His injured wrist! Not to mention the lack of power steering.

 

Whilst cannot remember which Blogger sagely noted how Fun it would be seeing The Great Santini’, aka Santino Ferrucci driving the No. 14 for ‘Ol SuperTex’, aka A.J. foyt next year as Kirkwood’s replacement.

 

As I guess we’ll have to wait with Baited Breath to “See” how the return to Detroit’s Downtown Streets plays out next year… 

INDY 500: Turning the Page Upon the 2’s

By Ringing Out the last vestiges of this year’s Indy 500 trivia…

 

So the 106^th running of the Indianapolis 500 is Done ‘N dusted. As congratulations to Marcus Ericsson, who I certainly Didn’t Pick to win this year and joins Mother Speedway’s legendous’ Record Book! For which now we’re off to Belle Isle and the rest of the “Tracks” on the IndyCar Calendar…

 

As I won’t attempt going thru all of the Indianapolis 500 Years ending in 2, but some that stuck out for me over the Month ‘N May, and I’ve not had time or space to comment upon here on No Fenders. And Nah, No Time Space Continuum Jokes Here, Hya!

 

Although you could certainly add Colton Herta’s wicked High-side Blow Over Carb Day accident to the mix!

 

The first 2’ that caught my Attenzione was pointed out by The Pit Window’s Mike Silver. Noting how He was somewhat  surprised Not more was being made out of the fact that this year marked the 50^th Anniversary of Mark Donohue winning for El Capitano’, giving Roger Penske the first of His 18 Baby borg trophies! As that brilliant Sunoco Blue McLaren M16B/Offenhauser is one of my All-time favourite IndyCar’s!

 

Putting this somewhat into perspective, and making me feel somewhat Old, since I Grew Up during the 1980’s listening to them. I’ve just learned that Steely Dan’s Debut Album Can’t Buy A Thrill was released this very same year. With their first Album including two Bona fide Hit Singles, i.e.; Do It Again and Realin’ In the Years. Although the track Dirty work is also very familiar to Mwah…

 

Meanwhile the IndyStar’s Dana Hunsinger Bembow wrote a bunch of great Indy 500 “Human Interest” stories over the month. The first being upon the Oft, Overlooked Jimmy Murphy, winner of the 1922 Indianapolis 500. Not to mention also presumably being America’s first ever Formula 1 winner at the 1921 French Grand Prix, along with winning the AAA National championship twice in 1922 and 1924, the latter posthumously.

 

Noting how Murphy Cut His Teeth as a Riding Mechanic for some of the Best then, before Duesenberg’s No. 1 Driver Tommy Milton recommended Duesenberg giving Him a Factory Car to Drive. For which Jimmy dually won the first race entered, the Beverly Hills Board Track race!

 

As Murphy would soon become known as “The King of the Boards,” before Sadly, Murphy lost His life contesting a Board Track race in 1924 as a favour to the race’s Promoter.

 

While Her Article about how Paul Tracy still firmly believes He won the 2002 Indy 500 twenty years later made me recall the time in 2009 riding the elevator down from the IMS Media Center’s forth floor with my IMS Media Center “Handler” Daniel Baines cooper. When Danny asked Mark Gravelly’ James if He thought that Paul Tracy Had won the ’02 Indy 500?

 

For which I  thought I could feel James Mutinous Scowl radiating as He Firmly, and somewhat testily said that Helio Castroneves most Definitely won that Race! Although I would have expected Nothing less from Mark James, since after All He was an IndyCar employee then working for somebody named Tony George, Just Sayin’

 

As you have to say it’s interesting how two of Roger Penske’s record 18 Indy 500 victories have been won by lawyers fighting Appeals! And a third W’ comes courtesy of another trademark Penske “Unfair Advantage” with that Mercedes Stock Block motor.

 

While I also was reminded that it was 30 years ago that we witnessed the Closest Indianapolis 500 finish in History when reading Geo. Phillips Oilpressure yarn about the Galmer IndyCar chassis, one of my favourites. As I can still recall having been given Cough cough! The NO. 33 entry in our ‘lil Indy 500 Racing Pool that year. Y’all know when somebody later named Scott “What Pace Car”” goodyear finished a tantalizing 0.043 second behind ‘lil al’, aka Al Unser Jr.

 

Although I tend to forget that Goodyear had Failed to Qualify and replaced Mike Groff that year…

 

And capping off this quick Look See at some of the 2’s, I’ll close with the following two Nuggets.

 

Although I was less than impressed with this year’s Fast 12 Pole Shootout format, which I’ll save for another, Rainy day. I did think it was Cool that some Cat named “Rocket Rick” (Mears) was Deputizing for this year’s Indy 500 Pace Car Driver Sarah Fisher on Pole Day, driving the 70^th Anniversary Corvette Pace Car. Hmm, some guy named Penske Owns the facility and his IndyCar team runs bowties’, CoInky-dense? But still very Cool!

 

Which made me remember that it was 40 years ago ‘Ol Gordie Johncock Beat Rick Mears to win His second Indianapolis 500 victory in a thrilling duel with Mears.

 

Along with the fact that I’m positive Nobody’s talking about regarding 2012. Since All that’s remembered is how close Takuma Sato came to winning His first Indianapolis 500 that year, when being given the Cold shoulder by eventual race winner Dario Franchitti. But what’s Sato’s motto? Oh Yeah, “No Attack, No chance! While that was the only time I’ve ever Heard Fans vehemently Booing ain Indy 500 winner!

 

Instead, 10 years ago was the Sad, Pathetic and Disappointing Debut of the third IndyCar engine manufacturer. Y’all remember when John Judd built Lotus engines appeared briefly, before the Under-powered Luddi’ lumps quickly Disappeared forever from the IndyCar landscape!

 

As poor Indy 500 Rookie Jean Alesi, who’s #64 Fan Force United Dallara/Lotus entry was black Flagged for Not meeting the 105% Minimum Speed requirement Rule by lap 9! While Keith Wiggins was unable to get out of His Lotus engine supply contract, with His #78 HVM Racing’s Lotus entry driven by Simona de Silvestro was similarly Black Flagged One lap later! 

RETRO: Open Wheel Racing Art Cars

Oh Gawd, is He still Banging On ‘bout Art Cars?

 

Yeah, I know, we’re all supposed to still be ah-lather’ over this past week’s IndyCar Open test at Mother Speedway, in preparations for this year’s Indianapolis 500. Cough Cough Sputter, Lady and Gentlemen, Start Your Engines…

 

And with the recent Hoopla over this year’s trio of “One Off” Arrow McLaren SP Indy 500 Undefeated liveries, and last year’s Tiger Stripes Felix Rosenqvist entry, do they qualify as Art Cars?

 

Suppose as an Aspiring, Frustrated Artist, I’ve always loved Art. While Arse-sumedly I discovered the great Motorsports Artist Randy Owens at the racetrack I’ve always considered my Home track, even when living only five miles away from Pacific Raceways in Kent, WA.

 

But it must have been Portland International Raceway where I first stumbled into Randy Owen’s wares, at one of the many Vendor Booths. And although my Bungalow by The Sea’s walls are festooned with several of Messer Owens lithographs and Serigraphs, I cannot recall when or what was his first piece I bought?

 

For many years, on my Desk at work off to one side between the Keyboard and Monitor sat a small Armada of miss-mash Indy Cars. As I think if was four in total? With the largest being a 1:43 scale predominantly blue and white Lola Randy Owens Art Car. Along with three Matchboxes, i.e.; SuperMario’, aka Mario Andretti, Robby Dirtmann Gordoun’ (Gordon) and a plain “Vanilla” blue non descript version. Which thinking about it now, I could have called it the “Mystery Car” in deference to Dan Gurney’s Mystery AAR Eagle…

 

Thus, I’ve always known of, and enjoyed the fact that Messer Owens was commissioned to apply his talent to an IndyCar, even if it was a perennial Backmarker. For which I suppose is why I cannot find anything substantive upon it today, Eh? And even Funnier is now knowing that I was totally unawares that I’d meet the actual driver nearly two decades later!

 

http://www.nofenders.net/2013/05/more-indy-hoopla-buddys-man.html

 

The IndyCar in Questione is the Leader Card Racing entry of the 1994 CART/PPG IndyCar World Series. When the team ran a single car entry, the #23 Lola T93/00 Chevrolet driven primarily by Buddy Lazier, and ran sponsorship from Financial World. Although I’ve got Zero Clue how many races it ran with that livery during the season?

 

 

Whilst I’m aware that Randy Owens also painted a matching, corresponding Spice sports Car, this story’s supposed to be about Single Seaters…

 

And although not only did I follow the series that year, I can recall going down early for an All Boyz’ Friday’s Day outing at Portland that IndyCar weekend, albeit I Don’t recall seeing this car now, since much Attenzione was cast upon the three car Marlboro Penske team with ‘lil Al, aka Al Unser Jr., Emmo’, nee Emerson Fittipaldi and somebody named PT’, aka Paul Tracy as it’s three drivers instead.

 

As I know part of the reason I wanted to take a day off from work and go down for Friday with Randal, Thy No Fenders Moniker King and B-Squared’ was because the Ford/Cosworth XB IndyCar engine was hitting it’s stride. Along with FoMoCo’, nee Ford Motor Company having just released it’s latest Mustang iteration Justin-time’ for it’s 30^th Anniversary. Not to mention it’s very first Special Vehicle Team’s SVT Mustang Cobra with some Cat named Rufas Parnelli Jones would be that year’s Indy 500 Pace Car driver!

 

As it’s Hard to believe it’s fast approaching 30 years since IMS has let a Ford Pace the Indianapolis 500. As C’mon IMs, knock Off this proprietary Chevrolet tie-up Shit!

 

Nineteen Ninety four would also be Mario Andretti’s final year in IndyCar’s, which He celebrated with his Arrivederci Tour, which I had a most unflattering version of instead, Never being a Mario Andretti IndyCar Fan! Whilst Mario’s teammate was  Bosom Buddy Il Lione’, Bloody Nige’, Red 5 or simply Nigel Mansell…

 

And although like I said I couldn’t find anything about the Leader Card Randy Owens Art Car, I did stumble across the following weblink for the Top 10 Lola’s of All time, including the Bruce Ashmore penned Lola T90/00, for which the Lola T93/00 was the final version of that stellar IndyCar.

 

https://www.motorsport.com/general/news/the-10-greatest-lola-cars/3180145/

 

Meanwhile, and I’m sure I scribbled ‘bout it here on No Fenders over a Decade ago. Renown Artist Dexter Brown, who’s unofficial 1975 BMW 3.3 “Town Car” Saloon  Art Car I “Saw” once at America’s Car Museum in Tacoma, WA, was commissioned by the presumably forgotten Force India F1 Team to raise Funds for two Charity’s Wayback circa Twenty-eleven, Crikeys!

 

As the one of a kind Hand painted Force India F1 car was the team’s initial VJM-01 driven in 2008 by FishyFellah’, aka Giancarlo Fisichella. For which all I can find is the following pre-Auction Buildup “teaser.” Including noting how Uncle Bernaughty’, nee Messer Bernard Charles Ecclestone would be the very first Celebrity to adorn his “John Handcock” upon it’s Nosecone. Noting the chassis was signed by several drivers and came sans engine, perfect for Hanging upon your Wall!

 

https://www.motorauthority.com/news/1066701_artist-painted-former-force-india-f1-car-to-be-auctioned-for-charity

 

Whilst I just thought about this. As it’s funny how Buddy Lazier and Mario Andretti have something in common, both being Indianapolis 500 winners. And No, I’m Not trying to compare them!