Fast on the Sand: The Daytona Beach Land Speed Record Runs of 1928

During the 1928 Land Speed Record attempt on Daytona Beach, three contenders, two Americans and a Briton, raced for the ultimate distance-averaged top speed in magnificent machines built by different schools of design. Frank Lockhart, the top American driver, survived a spectacular accident and rebuilt his Stutz Black Hawk, but met his fate in the new runs. The book explores the facts and myths behind the competition, as well as the innovations and fatal mistakes of vehicle design.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 137 pages
Publication date: 30 May 2022
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

The 1928 quest for the Land Speed Record on the sands of Daytona Beach was a historic moment for America, a thrilling and tragic blend of technology, speed, and human ambition. Tens of thousands of spectators lined the dunes, creating a massive crowd that surpassed even the size of the Indianapolis 500. Three formidable contenders, two Americans and a Briton, vied for the ultimate distance-averaged top speed, piloting magnificent machines built by different schools of design. This captivating book delves into the heart-pounding drama of the high-speed competition, shedding light on the facts and myths behind the race. It explores in depth the innovations and fatal mistakes of vehicle design, providing a comprehensive account of this extraordinary event.

The top American driver, Frank Lockhart, a young and talented 25-year-old, faced a remarkable challenge after surviving a spectacular accident that nearly destroyed his Stutz Black Hawk. Undeterred, Lockhart tirelessly rebuilt his machine, pouring his heart and soul into its restoration. His determination and skill paid off, as he emerged as a strong contender in the race. However, fate had other plans in store for him.

During the new runs, Lockhart's Stutz Black Hawk demonstrated incredible speed and agility, pushing the boundaries of what was possible on the sand. However, as he pushed his vehicle to its limits, tragedy struck once again. In a tragic turn of events, Lockhart lost control of his car and crashed into the dunes, suffering a fatal injury.

The loss of Frank Lockhart was a devastating blow to the world of motorsports, and his memory continues to inspire generations of drivers and enthusiasts. The 1928 quest for the Land Speed Record on the sands of Daytona Beach was a testament to the human spirit's indomitable quest for speed and innovation. It showcased the bravery and skill of the drivers, as well as the engineering prowess of the teams behind them.

This book serves as a tribute to the legacy of Frank Lockhart and the remarkable achievements of the 1928 Land Speed Record quest. It provides a detailed account of the competition, exploring the myths and facts behind the race, and shedding light on the innovations and mistakes that shaped the history of vehicle design. Whether you are a motorsports enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who loves the thrill of speed, this book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the incredible story of the 1928 Land Speed Record quest.

Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476680873