Originally Posted by Stevensville Mike:
I remember reading about the walnut-laced tires, oh..... 30+ years ago in the book "The Unbelievable Unsers". A good read, by the way. Innovation of the sort is rare in today's motorsports wherein so many things are spec.
There is also a good part in there where their personal garage in Albuquerque was rushed by upset rival drivers from an earlier race that night. Bobby was brandishing a rifle defending their home turf and if I remember correctly, Al pointed out that he was ready to use it.
Pops talked about a tire recapper in Albuquerque that probably made them up for the Unsers. I remember as a kid going to Albuquerque to visit my grandmother. On a couple of occasions, Pops took casings to sell them and probably bought a racing recap off them. Back then they called them "Alba" tires, I assume for Albuquerque. That and some Atlas Bucrons and you were set up!
I grew up a Bobby fan in the 70's. It amazes me that you can go on Google maps (Satellite) and find his place(and Al's across the street) where they grew up . You can see their Dad's repair shop still standing up front. Glad he and some of our other heroes have lived long lives....
