Riding mechanics they were called. They were a very big part of auto racing in the early days. Ray Harroun, who won the first Indy 500, was the only driver in that 1911 field without a riding mechanic. Indy went to single seaters in the early 1920's but reverted back to the two seaters in the early 1930's. Wilbur Shaw was the last man to win Indy with a riding mechanic in 1937.

I can't believe anyone would ride along like that. I've always thought the co-drivers in rally cars were nuts, but those guys back then take the cake.

I'd like to say thanks to you "Guys of a certain age" (no offense) for sharing your knowledge. It seems almost everyday I get on here I learn something new from someone. Thanks!

Here's something about the Cincinnati Speedway.

http://home.fuse.net/kewendel/QCM_TV..._Speedway.html

Thank you itsanonwingthing.

Another thought just popped into this old brain.:O:Jigger Johnson was the name of Shaw's riding mechanic in 1937 and he was the only riding mechanic to share in two Indianapolis wins. He was with Lou Meyer, I believe, when Meyer won either his 2rd Indy in 1933 or his 3rd in 1936.

Here is a little more info on the board tracks.


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Board_track_racing

This is one cool thread.

Lynn

Everytime I am around Crocky I have to remind myself that he went to the races at the Nutley Velodrome

Yes those Riding Mechanics were some brave men, but check out this high quality video of some early Motorcycle races on the 1 mile Board Track @ Daytona. No sound, but the video is amazing, and in the professional race near the end, they are traveling 212 km/h or 131 mph.

http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fu...ideoid=5561686

:thumb...So what's the big deal? It's only been closed since 1937!:rolling:kookoo:rolling

Here is a good site with a fair amount of info on Board tracks.

http://www.iowalink.com/users/lball/index.htm