The Wildest Ride, 1964

Item — disc: 2

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The landspeed record switched hands twice in the first week of racing at the Salt Flats, with the new world record sitting at 434 miles per hour. Breedlove's run is measured at 442 miles per hour on the way out, which he finds disappointing. After the run, he learns that he has gone 468 miles per hour. During the run, his concern was with rough sand in the measured mile of the track that shook him enough to crack the canopy of the car after his helmet collided with it. His return run had averaged over 490 miles per hour, and he hoped to set the record at over 500 in his next run.

On the way out, Craig's mile was measured at 513 miles per hour. Knowing the 500 miles per hour he wanted was within reach, he moved his throttle up even higher. During his second run, he lost his chute and was unable to stop himself. He escaped totally unhurt after hitting a telephone pole, which he said was easily cut in half by the car and flying into a lake or pond. He set the record at 526 miles per hour.

Color is very pink, quality is okay but not great.

Dates

1964

Conditions Governing Access

Materials must be used on-site; no use of original material, access copies will be made available for viewing. Five business days advanced notice required. Access to parts of this collection may be restricted under provisions of state or federal law, condition of the material, or by donor.