On May 30, 1958, thousands of racing fans poured into the infield at dawn to claim the best seats of the Indianapolis 500, unaware that they were going to witness one of the most notorious wrecks in racing history. Seconds after the green flag, a game of chicken spiraled out of control into a fiery 16-car pile-up that claimed the life of 29-year-old Indiana native and rising star Pat O'Connor. The other drivers escaped death, but the tragic 1958 Indy 500 seemed to leave its mark on them: the surviving drivers were hounded by accidents and terrible crashes, and most would die at tracks around the country. But the tragedy also prompted new regulations and safety precautions like roll bars that would ultimately save hundreds of lives. In The Curse of Indy 500: 1958's Tragic Legacy, veteran sportswriter Stan Sutton profiles the ill-fated race and the careers of the drivers involved, highlighting their lives in the dangerous world of auto racing.

About the Author

Stan Sutton is a member of the Indiana Sports Writers and Sportscasters Hall of Fame. During his career, Sutton worked for six newspapers in the Midwest, including 25-years with the Courier-Journal. He is author (with John Laskowski)of Tales from the Indiana Hoosiers Locker Room and (with Landon Turner)Tales from the 1980-81 Indiana Hoosiers.

Reviews

"In all, the book offers an exciting story of the 1958 Indy 500 and a thought-provoking discussion of its aftermath."

* Daily Journal *



Book Information
ISBN 9781684350018
Author Stan Sutton
Format Hardback
Page Count 200
Imprint Red Lightning Books
Publisher Red Lightning Books